Tragic Gogglebox star Andrew Michael made a huge personal sacrifice in order to help his family after they were axed from the show in 2015.
The dad-of-four tragically passed away at the age of 61 following a short illness, his family and Channel Four revealed yesterday.
The Michaels family had starred in the Channel 4 show since the start – but they left in 2015 following Andy’s decision to run as a politician for UKIP.
Andy previously had ambitions to run for office as a UKIP candidate, and he ran to be an MP for UKIP in Hastings and Rye that year.
His career move reportedly left the family in tears, and it was apparently so emotional for them that they were unable to watch the show after they were axed from the show.
(Image: Channel 4)
Carolyne told fans at the time: “It’s with great sadness that we must say goodbye to the wonderful Gogglebox family. Andy entering politics so can no longer stay with it.”
It turned that Andrew did not win the seat, and he proceeded to sacrifice his dream of a career in politics for the sake of his family.
He told The Sun: “I have a responsibility to keep my family happy after they supported me last autumn.
“That was a big deal for us. They supported me then, so it’s my time to support them now.
(Image: Channel 4)
“Now I have stepped down from my official position as prospective parliamentary candidate. I was happy to step down in order to pick up Gogglebox.”
Andrew’s heartbreaking death was announced yesterday (Friday 17 Aug) by Channel 4 and Studio Lambert on behalf of his family.
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.
(Image: PA)
“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.”
Andy’s Gogglebox co-star Sophie Sandiford, who appears on the show with her brother Pete, was one of the first stars of the show to pay tribute to the father.
In a post on social media, she wrote: “Rest in peace Andy.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
