Insiders reveal the TV star is wrestling with his emotions after best friend James “Arg” Argent’s conviction shakes the household.

Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan should be enjoying one of the happiest chapters of their lives. After celebrating a decade of marriage and welcoming their daughter Palma in March, everything appeared calm and perfect. But behind the scenes, tension has crept into the couple’s usually united front — and it all centres around Mark’s long-time friend, James “Arg” Argent.💥 Arg’s Case Sparks Shockwaves

Just days ago, fans were stunned to learn that Arg, 37, had received a suspended sentence and a restraining order following a serious incident involving his former partner, Nicoline Artursson, in Spain. According to court documents, she suffered multiple injuries after a heated confrontation outside her apartment. Arg has also been instructed to complete a programme focused on behavioural accountability.

For Michelle, 37, the situation crosses a line she cannot ignore.

💔 “She’s Given Mark an Ultimatum”

Sources close to the couple say Michelle has made her feelings crystal clear.
She wants Mark — now a father — to set an example and put distance between himself and Arg.

“Michelle isn’t asking Mark to choose between them,” an insider reveals. “But she believes that, as a family man, he shouldn’t align himself with behaviour she absolutely cannot tolerate. To her, it’s a simple decision.”

The insider adds that Michelle has “lost a great deal of respect” for Arg, despite once being supportive of his efforts to rebuild his life.

👬 A Friendship Built Through 15 Years of Highs and Lows

Mark and Arg’s bond dates back to their early TOWIE days in 2010. Viewers watched their personal lives unfold on screen as both men navigated turbulent relationships. While Mark eventually found stability with Michelle, Arg battled addiction, health issues and emotional struggles.

Mark has stood by his friend through the darkest moments — including two near-fatal overdoses. In 2020, Mark admitted that he feared Arg wouldn’t survive unless he accepted help. It was Mark who pushed him toward rehab when he finally hit rock bottom.

So when Arg seemed to be thriving again, pursuing his singing career and enjoying double dates with Mark and Michelle, it felt like a turning point. The latest developments, however, have shattered that progress.

⚡ Mark Torn Between Loyalty and Responsibility

Despite being horrified by Arg’s actions, Mark feels a deep emotional pull to stand beside his friend.

“Mark believes Arg still needs his support,” the source explains. “He’s terrified that turning his back now will send Arg spiralling again. But at the same time, he knows publicly supporting Arg could damage his family’s reputation — and deeply hurt Michelle.”

😞 The Dramatic Row Before the Sentencing

Witnesses earlier this month described a heated dispute between Arg and Nicoline, with belongings thrown from a balcony before things escalated further. Neighbours reportedly stepped in and contacted authorities.

Court papers detail the extent of Nicoline’s injuries. Although they healed within a week, the emotional impact has lingered. Prosecutors initially pushed for a harsher charge, but Arg accepted a reduced offence as part of a plea agreement.

📱 A Deleted Instagram Post That Lit the Fuse

A since-deleted message from Nicoline is said to have triggered the explosive argument. The post questioned whether it was acceptable for a partner to remain closely connected to an ex and their family — something Arg allegedly interpreted as a criticism of his longstanding bond with Lydia Bright.

🎤 Arg Returns to Work — But Insiders Say He’s Struggling

Despite the case, Arg returned to the stage with The Arg Band at London’s Connaught Rooms, smiling and performing as if nothing had happened. But insiders say the image is deceiving.

“Mark is still trying to make sense of everything,” the source shares. “Arg is putting on a brave face, but behind closed doors, he’s devastated.”