Gogglebox legends Dave and Shirley defended after being trolled with cruel comments

Gogglebox viewers have come together to defend cherished stars Dave and Shirley Griffiths after nasty internet bullies took aim at them online.

The Welsh duoinitially appeared on the Channel 4 programme back in 2015 - and it wasn't long before they captured viewers' hearts.

Throughout the years, Dave and Shirley - who have been wed for 49 years and are mum and dad to two youngsters - have left audiences in hysterics with their side-splitting quips and observations about the newest television offerings.

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Beyond the programme, Dave and Shirley consistently update their supporters via their Instagram account - which boasts a remarkable 208k followers.

On Friday (September 19) the couple posted on the social media site and revealed a sweet snapshot of themselves whilst on their overseas getaway, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Dave and Shirley displayed their affection in the photograph as they grinned towards the lens. They wrote alongside the image "Happy #gogglebox Friday everyone #fresheveryfriday don't forget tonight #channel4 9pm drinks and snacks out it's gogglebox time."

Nevertheless, whilst numerous Dave and Shirley admirers were thrilled by their post, the duo faced a barrage of vicious remarks from online tormentors.

Racing to the couple's defence, one supporter penned: "These are funny people on Gogglebox but why do people have to make comments about her face we are all getting older and you can't do much if you're prone to wrinkles give her a break."

The backing wasn't missed by Dave and Shirley who 'liked' the message. Another devotee also commented: "People can be so mean."

To fans' absolute joy, Dave and Shirley have made their comeback for the fresh Gogglebox series - which kicked off earlier this year. Nevertheless, things are looking rather different, as it was confirmed in July that cherished stars Roisin Kelly and Joe Kyle wouldn't be making a return.

The pair etched their names into Gogglebox folklore as the inaugural Scottish duo to join the programme back in February 2022.

Breaking the news of their exit from the Channel 4 programme, Roisin turned to TikTok to deliver the disappointing news, penning: "After three and a half years of sitting on the sofa channel 4 have decided it's time for Joe and I to stretch our legs and have not asked us back for season 26."

Gogglebox continues every Friday at 9pm on Channel 4.