Essex Police have confirmed that two men arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the death of Gogglebox star George Gilbey have been cleared of any wrongdoing and will face no further action.
The 40-year-old self-employed electrician died in March 2024 following an incident at a warehouse in Shoebury. Emergency services were called to the site, but Gilbey was pronounced dead at the scene.
While police have now ended their criminal investigation, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will continue to examine whether any breaches of workplace safety law occurred.
“This will aim to establish if there have been any breaches of health and safety law,” said Inspector Natalie Prince.
Gilbey, his mother Linda McGarry, and stepfather Pete McGarry rose to fame in 2013 as part of the original cast of Channel 4’s hit reality series Gogglebox. He also appeared in Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.
Following his death, tributes poured in from friends, co-stars, and fans. A Channel 4 spokesperson said:
“George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and stepdad 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.”
Friends gathered at a Clacton-on-Sea pub to celebrate his life. One friend described him as “a good bloke with a big heart who loved his family”, adding: “Nobody deserves this to happen so young – 40 is no age, and to die at work is horrific.”
Former Geordie Shore star Ricci Guarnaccio, who appeared alongside Gilbey on Celebrity Big Brother, wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Breaks my heart but @georgegilbey you are well and truly going to be missed my friend. Always lit up the room, cared for others & the memories we made I’ll cherish forever, brother.”
The HSE investigation into Gilbey’s death remains ongoing.
