Gogglebox star George Gilbey has died (Picture: Channel 4)
Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey has died aged 40 from an ‘accident at work’.
The star first hit our screens in September 2013 on the Channel 4 series with his mum Linda and late dad Peter, before appearing on Celebrity Big Brother the following year, where he finished fourth overall, with actor Gary Busey going on to win.
The family returned to Gogglebox in 2016, before Gilbey left two years later and Linda and Pete continued without him until 2020.
His sister confirmed the sad news of his death on Wednesday, writing: ‘Rest in eternal paradise brother. Far too young but god only takes the best.’
Geordie Shore star Ricci Guarnaccio, who starred on Celebrity Big Brother alongside Gilbey, also paid tribute on X, writing: ‘Breaks my [heart] but @georgegilbey you are well and truely going to be missed my friend.
Gilbey exited the Celebrity Big Brother house in fourth place (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)
‘Always lit up the room, cared for others & the memories we made I’ll cherish for ever brother. From CBB to speaking to you last week, I’m going to hugely miss you ma boiii! Love you GG.’
Ricci went on to confirm in the comments that his death was due to ‘an accident at work’, and after confusion over Gilbey’s social media accounts sharing videos in the last hour, explained: ‘Spoke with his sister, happened early of hours of this morning. Accidental death. They don’t know who it is posting on his socials.’
A spokesman for Essex Police told Metro.co.uk: ‘We received a report of an incident at Campfield Road in Shoebury at around 10am this morning (27 March), during which a man who was working at height had fallen and sustained an injury.
‘The ambulance service including air ambulance were in attendance. Sadly, the man died at the scene.
Tributes have been paid to the TV star (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)
‘We will continue liaising with partners including the Heath and Safety Executive. A cordon remains in place at the scene.’
Fans have also paid tribute to the TV star, with X user Cath writing: ‘George Gilbey rip he was a canny bloke on Gogglebox and big brother gone too soon only 40 years old so sad.’
Liam wrote: ‘Absolutely shocking news Had some great times when we was younger. Rest easy mate.’
Mike added: ‘RIP George Gilbey who used to be on #Gogglebox who has sadly died today at 40.. thoughts are with your mum and family and friends. Terrible news.’
Gilbey’s stepdad, who he starred on Gogglebox with, died in 2021 following a short illness.
Metro.co.uk has approached Channel 4 for comment.
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