The fifth series of The Only Way Is Essex, a British semi-reality television programme, began airing on 15 April 2012 on ITV2. Lauren Goodger appeared in the first 5 episodes before being suspended from the show, she returned in episode 9. The series concluded on 27 May 2012 after 10 episodes. An hour long special following the cast in Marbella aired on 13 June.
Episode 1
Joey moves into a bachelor pad with new flatmate Tom, and Lauren Goodger opens up about her weight struggles to Lydia. Arg unveils his latest look, and also throw a marathon benefit party with Billie and Cara. Plus, it remains to be seen whether Charlie and Gemma can keep their relationship on track after their surprise date.
Episode 2
Joey relaunches his Reem night with a bang, and Cara and Mick spend the day together. Gemma reveals what happened on her date with Charlie, while Arg trains for the London marathon.
Episode 3
Arg, Billie and Cara continue their marathon training with the help of Ricardo, while Mario and Ricky tease Little Chris over his failed attempt at chatting up Frankie. Elsewhere, Gemma launches a clothing line, Tom P asks Lauren G out to the pub with himself and the boys, and Ricky's mystery texter is revealed.
Episode 4
Arg, Billie and Cara take part in the London Marathon, while Bobby receives plastic-surgery advice from Chloe and Lauren P. Charlie has a heart-to-heart with Gemma after she is revealed as Ricky's mystery texter.
Episode 5
Billie, Cara and Arg recover after completing the London Marathon. Chloe's daughter Madison spends her birthday at the farm, and Lucy and Mario celebrate their one-year anniversary. Plus, Joey surprises Sam with a special date.
Episode 6
Mick celebrates his birthday with a Las Vegas themed birthday party at the Sugar Hut, Tom P asks Lauren P out on a wine tasting date.
Episode 7
Sam throws a dinner party, while Gemma reveals her new mystery man. Tom P and Lauren P go on a date at a vineyard and Cara and Billie go on the warpath with Arg over their argument with Jess.
Episode 8
The girl Tom K has been texting is revealed, causing some unhappiness. Joey is in trouble with Sam, and Nanny Pat gets new dentures. Plus, the gossip after Lauren P and Tom P's romantic moment. Reality programme following a group of people in Essex.
Episode 9
Gemma confronts Charlie in the ultimate showdown over Gemma confronting Charlie on his sexuality. Sam and Joey decide to give their relationship another go.
Episode 10
Lauren Goodger confronts Tom P about his lie to Lauren Pope and she also revealed she has reached out to Jessica to make amends and misses Lauren Pope's friendship. Also, during a diamond jubilee part, Arg and Gemma finally reveal that they love each other.