Former Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey has tragically passed away at the age of 40 following an accident at work. The TV personality, hailing from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, gained fame alongside his mother Linda McGarry and late step-father Pete on the second series of Gogglebox in 2013.
Gilbey’s sudden demise comes as a devastating blow, occurring less than three years after the loss of his step-father and co-star Pete, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 71. The Gilbey family became household names through their appearances on Gogglebox, offering viewers a unique and entertaining insight into their everyday lives.
In 2014, George Gilbey ventured into the Celebrity Big Brother house on Channel 5, leading to the family’s departure from Gogglebox. Despite the controversy surrounding his participation, Gilbey’s stint on the reality show showcased his charismatic personality and garnered significant public support. He later returned to Gogglebox alongside his parents, reaffirming their status as fan favorites.
George Gilbey’s legacy extends beyond his television appearances, as he leaves behind a seven-year-old daughter, Amelie Iris Gilbey, born in 2016 to Gemma Conway. Colleagues and friends, including fellow TV personality Ricci Guarnaccio, have expressed their shock and sadness over Gilbey’s untimely passing. Guarnaccio described Gilbey as ‘one in a million’ and reminisced about their time together on Celebrity Big Brother.
The circumstances surrounding George Gilbey’s death have been described as an ‘accident at work‘, according to Guarnaccio. Essex Police confirmed receiving a report of an incident at Campfield Road in Shoebury, where Gilbey had fallen from a height and sustained fatal injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Gilbey tragically passed away at the scene.
Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues, highlighting Gilbey’s infectious energy and larger-than-life personality. The reality TV star’s journey was not without challenges, including a three-year jail sentence for drunk driving in 2019. Despite setbacks, Gilbey remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, cherished by those who knew him.
George Gilbey’s unexpected departure has left a void in the hearts of many, serving as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility. As friends and family mourn his loss, they fondly remember Gilbey’s contributions to television and his unwavering spirit. His legacy will endure through the memories he created and the lives he touched during his time in the spotlight.
