Whitney Thore, the 27-stone star of the Fat Girl Dancing YouTube video says she's happier than ever after being given her own TV show

After being self-conscious about her size for years, Whitney Thore says she has never been happier now that she weighs 27 stone (378lbs).

The 30-year-old from North Carolina became famous in 2014 when a YouTube video of her performing called 'Fat Girl Dancing' went viral.

After uploading the clip, it quickly attracted millions of views and Whitney has now been given her own reality TV show as a result. 

From YouTube to reality TV star: Whitney Thore, pictured on Lorraine today, has been given her own show following the popularity of her video 'Fat Girl Dancing'

Speaking to Lorraine Kelly on Lorraine this morning, Whitney said: 'I hope women can see someone they can identify with because bigger women are grossly under-represented in the media. 

'I hope I can be an inspiration.'

Whitney said she wants to use the TV show to prove size doesn't have to be a barrier to happiness.

She said: 'So often we think our bodies limit us. 

'For years, I didn't think I had permission to dance even though it's what makes me happiest. 

'I just hope everyone knows you can do whatever you want.'

To a large extent, Whitney has already proved this with her video 'Fat Girl Dancing', which has received millions of hits since she uploaded it to YouTube.

The clip shows her energetically performing a professional-looking dance routine in a vest top and leggings.

She revealed on Lorraine how she used to love dancing when she was a teenager and a size 10.

But she stopped after her weight increased when she started at university because of polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCSO).

The 30-year-old thinks large women are under represented on TV so wants to change that with her TLC show