Jared Fogle rose to prominence as the emblematic figure of Subway, shedding an astounding 245 pounds through a diet primarily consisting of the brand’s submarine sandwiches. However, his once-thriving empire crumbled abruptly in July 2015 when the FBI and state police uncovered child pornography at his Indiana residence. This revelation shattered his public image, leading to a 15-year prison sentence for possession of child pornography and crossing state lines for illicit encounters with minors. Fogle’s guilty plea prompted his second wife, Katie McLaughlin, to file for divorce.
During his Subway heyday, Fogle acknowledged his fame but emphasized his lack of traditional celebrity status, identifying himself simply as “the guy in Subway commercials.” Yet, his life took a drastic turn following his conviction.
Subsequently incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Englewood, Colorado, Fogle faced the challenges of prison life. Despite serving time in a low-security facility, his experience was far from easy. In a letter to a former acquaintance, he described his initial months in prison as “very hard” and attempted to downplay the severity of his crimes. Reports suggested he found employment in the prison kitchen, leveraging his prior food experience to improve the quality of meals for both inmates and staff.
Although ridiculed by fellow inmates and experiencing significant weight gain, Fogle gradually acclimated to prison existence. He immersed himself in activities, bonding with other prisoners over board games and adapting to the fitness routines available to him. By 2021, he boasted of his disciplined exercise regimen and healthier eating habits, indicating a stark contrast from his initial struggles.
Despite the relatively relaxed atmosphere of his prison, characterized by numerous amenities and leisure activities, Fogle grappled with remorse and introspection. In his correspondence, he acknowledged his past mistakes and expressed a desire for personal growth and redemption.
Weekends provided Fogle with opportunities for leisure, indulging in his hobbies of football-watching and reading. Additionally, he engaged in various recreational pursuits available within the prison, ranging from crafts to sports, fostering social connections with fellow inmates.
Even during the holiday season, Fogle found himself within the confines of prison, albeit with a semblance of festivity through special meals and recreational activities.
However, not all aspects of prison life were pleasant for Fogle. He endured a violent assault by another inmate, underscoring the dangers inherent in his environment. The incident served as a stark reminder of the harsh realities he faced behind bars.
Throughout his incarceration, Fogle navigated a complex journey of adaptation, introspection, and occasional turmoil. Despite his fall from grace, he sought redemption and personal improvement, endeavoring to make the most of his “unwanted experience” as he awaited the possibility of parole.
