Vinny Hickerson

"Bigg Vinny Mac" was born Vencent Van-Zant Hickerson on June 28, 1983 in Perry County, TN. Vinny is the middle child of nine children, four being step siblings. In his early childhood, Vinny experienced abuse from his drug dealing step-father and also struggled with his weight. At the young age of 14, he found himself homeless and relying on friends for a place to stay. He continued his education, played football, and worked a part-time job at Sonic to help pay for his clothes and food. Even during his tumultuous teen years, Vinny was active in his church and youth group. Through his faith, Vinny realized God blessed him with a special gift of music.

Not willing to be bound by his circumstances, Vinny immersed himself into the music industry in his early twenties. He moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music. By chance Vinny moved in next to Butter Fortney, who he formed a county duo with called Trailer Choir. They began playing shows around the Nashville area. Starting as a cover band, their fan base quickly grew as they added in original songs during their sets. Vinny, a 450 -pound guy in overalls who not only sings, but also dances, belly-first, down to the ground, was quite a sight for audiences. Toby Keith, curious to see what the hype was about, attended a show in 2007. Impressed with the band's energy and unique stage presence, he offered them a recording contract. Trailer Choir toured the country for the next five years as the opening act for some of the biggest names in music industry. He electrified millions from the stage with his savvy dance moves, raspy voice, and infectious smile.

Vinny was soon confronted by a harsh reality. He thought of his large appearance as a gimmick that added to his success, and worried that people wouldn't like him as much without it. With no regard for his health, he lived as if he were invincible. Vinny did not understand the severity of the impact on his health and was shocked to discover how his eating habits and disregard for his wellness had led to diabetes. The truth was that if he continued living this way, he would be lucky to live two more years. Vinny's eyes were opened when he heard the doctor tell him of his possible fate. This resulted in his decision to make a big change in his life.

Vinny set out on a new journey to lose the weight he had so carelessly packed on over his life span. He knew it wouldn't be easy and that he couldn't do it alone. With over 200 lbs. to lose, Vinny signed on as a cast member of the hit NBC show "THE BIGGEST LOSER" in April of 2011. Vinny surprised himself by losing 184 lbs during the 13 episodes of the show. By the end of the season of "THE BIGGEST LOSER," Vinny not only was a lot thinner and healthier, but he also surprised his long time girlfriend, Lori Diaz, by proposing to her on the show at the Grand Ole' Opry. The happy couple will marry in the fall of 2012.

Vinny has succeeded in keeping off the weight he lost during "THE BIGGEST LOSER" and is continuing with his new, healthy lifestyle. With his inspirational story, Vinny travels the country speaking at schools, churches, and corporate events to motivate change in people's lives. He continues to make his mark in the entertainment world through making and performing music with Trailer Choir and also by beginning a career in acting. He hopes to help transform the lives of those he meets through his encouraging words.