Gogglebox star Andy Michael has passed away at the age of 61 following a short illness, says a statement from Channel 4 and Studio Lambert on behalf of his family.
The family first appeared on Gogglebox in the first episode in 2013 but announced their departure in 2014.
The stars decided to leave because Andy was running for Ukip in the general election.
The Channel 4 star failed in his attempt to secure the Hastings and Rye seat, so the family returned for more episodes.
The statement, given to the PA news agency, said: “We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Gogglebox star Andy Michael at the age of 61 following a short illness.
“Andy passed away last weekend with his family by his side.
“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.
“Beloved father to Katy, Alex, Pascal and Louis, and cherished husband of Carolyne, Andy was a much-loved and respected member of the Gogglebox family, and he will be very sadly missed.
“Our love and thoughts are with Carolyne and the entire family. The family have asked for privacy at this very sad time”.
This comes after the sad news that another Gogglebox star, Mary Cook, had also passed away earlier this week at the age of 92.
A Channel 4 and Studio Lambert on behalf of the Cook family said: “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.
“Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and dear friend to many, Mary, who worked in the hospitality trade, had been married and widowed twice.
“She will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew.
“Our love and thoughts are with Mary’s family, friends, and Marina. The family have asked for privacy at this sad time.”
She and Marina, who lived with her in the St Monica Trust retirement home, won over fans with their hilarious quips and rude sex talk during the biggest shows of the week.
They had taken a temporary break from filming the series due to the Covid pandemic, but returned in the series finale of the 17th series of the hit Channel 4 show.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk