Tragic workplace accident claims the life of George Gilbey, fondly remembered from Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother

George Gilbey, a cherished television personality known for his appearances on the popular Channel 4 series Gogglebox alongside his mother Linda and step-father Pete, has tragically died at the age of 40. The news of his untimely passing was confirmed by Ricci Guarnaccio, a fellow Celebrity Big Brother contestant in 2014, who expressed his heartbreak and fond memories of Gilbey on social media.

The incident leading to Gilbey’s death was described as a workplace accident, where he sustained fatal injuries after falling while working at height in Shoebury. Essex Police and emergency services, including an air ambulance, were called to the scene, but sadly, Gilbey died from his injuries. Authorities, in coordination with the Health and Safety Executive, are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the accident.

Gilbey’s journey to television fame began when he joined Gogglebox in its second series in 2013 with his family, quickly becoming a fan favourite for their humorous and heartfelt commentary on various TV shows. Although they briefly left the program, they returned for its seventh series in 2016 and continued to delight viewers until Pete’s death in 2021.

Channel 4 has expressed its condolences, highlighting George’s significant contribution to Gogglebox’s success and extending sympathies to his family, especially his mother Linda. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Linda Gilbey previously reflected on the close-knit family’s experiences, including their shared joy in George’s Celebrity Big Brother participation and the couple’s extensive history as foster parents, having fostered over 100 children since 2000. George Gilbey’s passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and a wide audience who came to love his vibrant personality and compassionate spirit.