Gogglebox cast tragedies from heartbreaking deaths to couple's 'traumatic' divorce

Gogglebox has transformed into a cherished British television programme since its debut on Channel 4 in 2013. Presented by Craig Cash and the late Caroline Aherne, it provides viewers with an insight into thedaily lives of typical British households as they tune in to watch telly.

The format has subsequently spawned a celebrity spin-off edition and achieved global recognition after being acquired by streaming behemoth Netflix. International adaptations have been created across countries including Australia, Poland, Russia and Finland.

The Gogglebox cast have meanwhile established themselves as recognisable faces throughout the UK, with breakout personalities such as Scarlett Moffatt progressing to forge flourishing television careers beyond the programme. However, the show's participants have endured their fair share of personal hardships throughout the years.

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From devastating bereavements to marriage breakdowns, here we examine some of the challenges and difficulties encountered by the Gogglebox personalities over time.

George Gilbey's tragic workplace death

Ex-Big Brother housemate George Gilbey featured on Gogglebox with his mother Linda and stepfather Pete McGarry. The 40-year-old perished after sustaining catastrophic injuries to his head and body following a fall in Shoeburyness, Essex, last year.

The coroner's officer revealed George had been "working on a roof when he fell through a plastic skylight, landing on the ground below". Two individuals were detained in connection with the incident, though Essex Police confirmed earlier this year they would face no further action.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will now spearhead the investigation. Natalie Prince, an inspector with HSE, told Sky News that they would "thoroughly investigate George's tragic death".

George's stepfather Pete passed away three years prior, in 2021, mere days after receiving a six-month prognosis. Pete, aged 71, had been diagnosed with bowel cancer.

The Malone family 'heartbroken' after death of beloved family member

The Malones have been a hit on Gogglebox since their debut in 2014. The family, including mum Julie, dad Tom, sons Tom Jr and Shaun, and the family dog Bob, have regularly graced our screens.

Earlier this year, an outpouring of support for the Malones came when they announced the sad news of Bob's passing. Julie shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting a series of snaps of Bob over the years, with the caption: "Today we said goodbye to our beautiful protective Bobby, he spent his last day doing what he loved, watching over the grandchildren playing in the garden. We are heartbroken. RIP our beautiful Big Bob."

Tom Jr, who exited the show in 2021, also honoured the beloved pet, saying: "Good boy Bob... Rest easy big man."

This marked the second time the family had to endure the loss of a pet. They announced the passing of their rottweiler Dave in 2023.

Daniel and Stephen's 'traumatic' divorce

Gogglebox star Daniel Lustig opened up about his "traumatic" split from co-star Stephen Webb. The former couple parted ways last year after a six-year marriage.

They bid farewell to the show in 2023. Speaking on Best's Suddenly Single podcast, Daniel described the split as a "slow process" and confessed he was back on the dating scene.

He revealed that despite their break-up, the couple continued to share the same bed. They eventually decided to sleep separately when Stephen took part in Celebs Go Dating.

Gogglebox's lost stars

Numerous cast members have passed away over the years. Leon and June Bernicoff were instant favourites when they first appeared on the show in 2013.

Following the death of 83 year old Leon in 2017, June left the show. She then penned her debut book about their six-decade-long love story, titled 'Leon And June: Our Story'.

June, aged 82, passed away in 2020. In a statement, Channel 4 said: "As the first couple to be cast for Gogglebox back in 2013, June and her husband Leon were a huge part of the programme's success. Their warmth, wit and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series."

Andy Michael, 61, who featured on the show with his wife Carolyne, son Louis, and daughter Alex, died at the age of 61 in 2021. Studio Lambert announced that he had passed away after a brief illness, surrounded by his family.

Retired Mary Cook, 92, graced Gogglebox alongside her close mate Marina Wingrove. The duo quickly became fan favourites due to their cheeky remarks and "brilliant wit".

Mary passed away in 2021 with her family by her side. Channel 4 paid tribute, saying: "Mary will be sorely missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew."

Caroline Aherne, who created The Royle Family, was Gogglebox's first narrator. She lost her battle with cancer at just 52 in 2016.

Craig Cash, who stepped into the role, told BBC Radio Manchester: "She just asked me if I'd do the show for her if she was poorly and when she had to go for chemo, so of course I said yes just to help out, because I couldn't help in any other way."

He continued: "It was really lovely, because it feel like a gift she has left me and I'm very grateful."