Alana Thompson: From Honey Boo Boo to a Grown-Up

Alana Thompson, also known as Honey Boo Boo, captured the hearts of fans worldwide with her sassy personality on the reality TV show “Toddlers & Tiaras” and her spin-off show “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.” However, her journey hasn’t been without its challenges.

June Shannon and Alana Thompson spotted out at The Grove in Los Angeles, 2012 | Source: Getty Images

After her mother, June Shannon, faced legal issues and battled addiction, Alana lost sole custody and now lives with her older sister, Lauryn ‘Pumpkin’ Efird. Rumors have started circulating about Alana being pregnant with her older boyfriend’s baby.

“Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” was a massively popular show that followed Alana and her family’s day-to-day life. However, it faced criticism for the family’s unconventional lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. The show was ultimately canceled after allegations emerged about Shannon’s boyfriend engaging in child endangerment.

Since the show’s cancellation, the family has faced multiple scandals and controversies. Shannon, now sober and married to Justin Stroud, has her own spin-off show called “Mama June: From Not to Hot.” Despite her battle with addiction, Shannon expressed her pride in Pumpkin for stepping up and being a solid maternal figure for Alana.

While Alana’s weight and appearance have faced criticism over the years, she is now gearing up for a weight loss surgical procedure called a suture sculpt endoscopic sleeve. The procedure is intended to help her reach her goal weight of 150 pounds.

Alana’s boyfriend, Dralin Carswell, is supportive of her decision and plans to undergo the same procedure himself. Though her mother, Shannon, would prefer Alana to wait until she turns 18, Pumpkin has given her approval for the surgery.

In September 2021, Alana went public with her relationship with Carswell, and despite the backlash over their age difference, their families have formed close bonds with each other. Alana remains unfazed by the critics, stating that their happiness is what matters.

Recently, Alana attended prom with Carswell, and while they looked stunning, hateful comments followed. Critics targeted Alana’s weight and appearance, even suggesting that she looked pregnant. Shannon quickly shut down these rumors, emphasizing that Alana’s focus is on graduating high school and pursuing a career as a neonatal nurse.

Despite the negativity, Alana remains focused on the positive aspects of her life. She is happy living with her sister, spending time with her boyfriend, and she graduated in April 2023, ready to embark on the next chapter of her life.