Gogglebox star George Gilbey’s mother is said to be struggling with the sudden loss of her son as it comes just two years after the death of her husband Pete McGarry.
It was announced yesterday that Gilbey had died during a workplace accident, having fallen from a significant height and sustaining an injury.
Speaking to GB News, a spokesperson from Channel 4 commented: “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.”
As the news began to circulate of Gilbey’s death, thousands of tributes began to pour in, which came just two years after his step-dad died aged 71.
McGarry died back in 2021 just days after being told he had six months to live after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.
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. pic.twitter.com/VMp1XkxvPG
— C4 Gogglebox (@C4Gogglebox) March 27, 2024
Following the shock news of Gilbey’s death, a close friend of the family told The Sun: “First, she lost Pete, now her son as well.
"She is incredibly emotional. George was like her little treasure.”
Speaking at the time of her husband's death, Linda McGarry said: “Pete was a lovely man and I was so lucky to have him for 25 years.
"I said to him, We’ve not only been 25 years, it’s been day and night with each other.
Pete died just two years before George's tragic accident
CHANNEL 4
“He was my life. I have a message from a young lad I know who said, ‘Ordinary people won’t be remembered, but we’ll remember Pete forever – like the pyramids’.
“I thought that was beautiful. He was so proud of George when he was in Big Brother too. Him and George really loved each other, George is really cut up.”
Gilbey first found fame when he and his parents joined Gogglebox in its second series in 2014 before he starred on Celebrity Big Brother – later returning to Gogglebox in 2016.
Former Geordie Shore star Ricci Guarnaccio was one of the first to pay tribute to Gilbey, posting a collection of images and writing: “Breaks my [heart] but @georgegilbey you are well and truly going to be missed my friend.
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George Gilbey suddenly died at the age of 40
GETTY/ITV
“Always lit up the room, cared for others & the memories we made I’ll cherish forever brother. From CBB to speaking to you last week, I’m going to hugely miss you ma boiiii! Love you G.”
Other tributes poured in with one fan commenting: “Absolutely speechless. Rest in eternal peace George James Gilbey. Thinking of all your family – life really is cruel and tomorrow is never promised.”
“Wish this wasn’t true. Gonna miss you George James Gilbey – You were on in a million. Fly high mate,” another penned.
A heartbroken user said: “Can’t believe what I’m reading. You were the happiest, the life of the party and such a big part of the HTA family. You will be very missed, RIP George.” (sic)