Channel 4’s beloved show Gogglebox has become a staple of British television, with its quirky cast offering hilarious and relatable commentary on the week’s TV highlights. However, behind the laughter, some of its stars have faced personal struggles, heartbreak, and even scandal, leading to what has been dubbed the “curse of Gogglebox.”
Here’s a closer look at the difficult moments that have marred the show’s history—from relationship breakups and tragic accidents to shocking pay disputes and behind-the-scenes drama.
Love Splits: Breakups Shake the Cast 💔
The most recent Gogglebox breakup came just this week when Roisin Kelly announced she had split from her long-term boyfriend, Joe Kyle. Their breakup follows months after they moved into their new home together, and the news shocked fans, especially after their departure from the show last year when their screen time was reduced. Roisin’s split is just one in a series of love-related heartaches among the cast.
In 2024, Stephen Webb, one of the longest-serving stars, and his husband, Daniel Lustig-Webb, announced their divorce, leaving fans heartbroken. The couple, who had married in 2018, had appeared to be one of the show’s most stable couples, but their relationship ended after years of struggles. Daniel later revealed in an interview that their marriage had gradually “petered off,” and they ultimately decided to remain friends.
Stephen’s heartbreak was not new for the show. Back in 2018, Stephen’s Gogglebox co-star and ex-boyfriend, Chris Ashby-Steed, left the show unexpectedly. The two had been fan favorites for years, but their relationship soured, and Chris later revealed that the breakup had been bitter, and they no longer spoke.
Another major Gogglebox love split was that of Silent Jay and Eve Woerdenweber in 2015. Their breakup was sudden, and Jay’s departure from the show followed. Jay later admitted the breakup came as a complete surprise to him, despite facing arguments that he believed were due to the pressures of the show.
Tragic Accidents: Heartbreaking Losses 💔
Gogglebox was rocked in 2024 when former star George Gilbey tragically died following a fall while working in Southend-on-Sea. George, who had previously appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, was fatally injured after falling through a plastic skylight at work. The entire Gogglebox community was devastated by his untimely death.
Just a year earlier, Ellie Warner’s boyfriend was struck by a car and left in critical condition. Thankfully, he has since recovered, but the accident was a devastating moment for the Gogglebox family.
Additionally, Gogglebox lost several beloved figures in 2021, including George’s stepfather Pete McGarry, who passed away from bowel cancer, and Mary Cook, aged 92, whose death deeply affected both the cast and viewers. That same year, Andy Michael, another cherished Gogglebox star, also passed away, leaving the show and its audience mourning the loss of multiple members.
Pay Scandals: Low Wages and Behind-the-Scenes Drama 💸
While Gogglebox brings its cast into the public eye, it’s not all glamorous. In 2021, Paige Deville and her mother Sally shocked fans when they quit the show and spoke out about their dissatisfaction with Gogglebox’s pay. Paige claimed that the cast only received about £100 for long 9-hour filming sessions, which started in the late afternoon and went past midnight. She also criticized the lack of aftercare for the cast, saying, “It isn’t as glamorous as you might think. It is very hard work.”
Reverend Kate Bottley, who appeared on Gogglebox for five seasons, echoed similar sentiments, saying the pay was low and that she was expected to provide meals for the crew. In an interview, Kate revealed that much of the money she received went towards covering the cost of food and hospitality for the crew.
In a more recent scandal, Gogglebox star Sid Siddiqui found himself at the center of a sick pay controversy. It was revealed that while Sid was signed off from his NHS job for stress, he continued to film for Gogglebox. The NHS reportedly gave him permission to continue with the show, but the situation raised questions about the ethics of working while on sick leave.
Secret Orgies: Shocking Scandal Involving Steph and Dom Parker 🍾
One of the earliest scandals in Gogglebox history involved fan favorites Steph and Dom Parker. In 2014, it was revealed that their £3.5 million mansion had been rented out for an upmarket masked orgy hosted by a private swingers’ club. The couple’s home was reportedly used for an all-night event where guests drank champagne and engaged in intimate activities. While a spokesperson for the couple confirmed they were not at home during the event, it still created a media storm, attracting significant attention to the couple and the show. Thankfully, no Gogglebox cameras were present, and the couple continued their stint on the show despite the scandal.
A Show Full of Heartbreak and Scandal 💔
Despite the lighthearted nature of Gogglebox, it’s clear that the cast has had their share of struggles, heartbreak, and scandals. From breakups and tragic accidents to financial grievances and behind-the-scenes drama, the “curse of Gogglebox” has affected many of the show’s beloved stars.
However, through it all, Gogglebox has remained a fan favorite, providing viewers with an entertaining and relatable look at the highs and lows of everyday life. As the cast continues to navigate their personal lives in the public eye, it’s clear that the show’s charm lies not just in the funny moments, but also in the real, human experiences that have unfolded off-screen.
Whether dealing with personal loss, public feuds, or financial struggles, the Gogglebox family has shown remarkable resilience. And as fans continue to tune in every week, it’s clear that the show—and its stars—remain as enduring and beloved as ever.
