Gogglebox deaths: Three people from the show who've died
TV

Gogglebox deaths: Paying tribute to the cast and crew we’ve loved and lost

Much-loved faces from behind the scenes have also lost their lives

| Updated:

Gogglebox has been hit by a number of shock deaths over the years, both when it comes to the stars in front of the camera and those working behind the scenes.

Here, we honour those who are gone but certainly not forgotten…

Gogglebox tribute to Lesley Land
Gogglebox paid tribute to Lesley Land following her death in December (Credit: Channel 4)

Gogglebox deaths: Lesley Land

Lesley Land, a member of the Gogglebox press team, sadly died at the age of just 41. She joined Channel 4 in 2014, and one of the last shows of 2022 paid simple tribute to her.

She was a long-time publicist at Channel 4 and had worked on a number of shows including Gogglebox, The Big Narstie Show, and The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan.

A statement read: “Everyone at Channel 4 is deeply saddened by the news that our long-standing colleague and friend, Lesley Land, passed away last Friday.”

George Gilbey with his mum and step-dad on Gogglebox

George Gilbey

George Gilbey joined the Gogglebox family in 2013 with his mum Linda and step-dad Pete, and remained a fan favourite.

However, he died at age 40 in March 2024 after falling while working on a roof.

Following his tragic death, Gogglebox shared an emotional statement: “George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George’s family and friends at this very sad time. The family have asked for privacy.”

In 2014, he participated in Celebrity Big Brother and finished in fourth place.

Mummy Pat and son Stephen on Gogglebox

Mummy Pat

Mummy Pat, who appeared on the show alongside her co-star son, Stephen Webb, died at age 75 in January 2024 after battling a long illness.

Stephen announced the sad news on Instagram, writing: “Mummy Pat, you were one in a million, took everyone at face value, would share your last fiver with a stranger, the salt of the earth and the absolute centre of our world! Rest in peace mum.”

Gogglebox also shared a short statement. “Pat was a much loved cast member on the show from series 10 to 12 alongside her son Stephen,” they said.

“Mummy Pat will be remembered and missed by her children Stephen, Denise, Sharon, Beverley and the extended family.”

Malone family on Gogglebox
Dog Dave died at age 12 (Credit: Channel 4)

Dave Malone

Dave Malone, the rottweiler who was the beloved dog owned by the Malone family, shared the devastating news that their pet had died in October 2023 at age 12.

“There are no words to describe the pain we are feeling or how much we loved you Dave xx RIP XX You helped everyone see the true lovable nature of Rotties. We were blessed to have you for 12and a half years xx,” the family shared on X, formerly Twitter.

June and Leon from Gogglebox watching TV
Devoted couple June and Leon were reunited by her death in 2021 (Credit: YouTube)

June and Leon Bernicoff

June and Leon were well-known and adored regulars on Gogglebox.

Sadly, Leon died shortly before Christmas 2017 aged 83 following a short illness.

In May 2020, Leon’s widow June was reunited with her husband when she sadly died at the age of 82.

Gogglebox producer Tania Alexander said at the time: “Absolutely heartbroken to tell you that our beloved June Bernicoff passed away on Tuesday following a short illness – it was not related to COVID-19

“June and Leon were the #Gogglebox originals and huge part of the show’s success. I adored them both. Big kiss June darling.”

Pete McGarry on the sofa with wife Linda
Gogglebox cast member Pete McGarry passed away from bowel cancer (Credit: Channel 4)

Gogglebox deaths: Pete McGarry

June 2021 saw the death of Pete McGarry, another original cast member, announced.

He died at the age of 71 from bowel cancer.

Gogglebox star Mary Cook with friend Marina
Gogglebox cast member Mary Cook passed away in 2021 (Credit: Channel 4)

Mary Cook dies aged 92

It seems 2021 was one of the saddest years yet for the cast and crew of Gogglebox.

In August, the death of Mary Cook was announced.

It broke on the show’s official Twitter account.

A statement read: “We are extremely saddened to share that Gogglebox star Mary Cook passed away in hospital this weekend at the age of 92 with her family by her side.

“She will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew.”

Gogglebox star Andy Michael with members of his family
Gogglebox cast member Andy Michael died days after Mary (Credit: Channel 4)

Gogglebox deaths: Andy Michael

Just days after Mary’s death, Andy Michael tragically passed away at the age of just 61.

“We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Gogglebox star Andy Michael at the age of 61 following a short illness,” read a statement.

“Retired hotelier Andy, who brought much wit and insight to Gogglebox, was one of the show’s original cast members, appearing in the very first episode in 2013.

“Andy was a much loved and respected member of the Gogglebox family and he will be very sadly missed,” the tribute then added.

Caroline Aherne smiling with an award
Narrator Caroline Aherne died from lung cancer (Credit: Splashnews.com)

Caroline Aherne

After narrating Gogglebox between 2013 and 2016, actor and comedian Caroline Aherne died from lung cancer at her home in July 2016.

She was later replaced by the show’s current narrator, Craig Cash.

Read more: Gogglebox star Dave Griffiths ‘calls it a day’ as he announces retirement

YouTube video player

So what do you think? Head to our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you!


Nancy Brown
Acting Editor