Celebrity Big Brother star leads tributes to Gogglebox icon George Gilbey after death aged 40
Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey has died aged 40 after 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.
'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.'
In a statement shared with Metro.co.uk, a spokesperson for Gogglebox said: '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.'
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.
'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.
His mum Linda is said to be devastated, with a source telling The Sun: 'This will hit his family very hard, especially Linda.
'First, she lost Pete, now her son as well. She is incredibly emotional.
'George was like her little treasure.'
Got a story?
If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
MORE : Gogglebox legend who quit series after 10 years announces new career move
MORE : Hollywood star reveals the gutting reason he won't do Celebrity Gogglebox
More >> https://ift.tt/YLuvmBE Source: IN TREND TODAY