Gogglebox star George Gilbey’s mum Linda has spoken out after her son's recent passing earlier this week (27 March).
The TV star died at age 40, with Channel 4 saying in a statement on Wednesday (27 March): "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.
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"The family have asked for privacy."
According to Essex Police, a man had tragically died in an accident while working at height.
An Essex Police spokesperson said: "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.
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"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."
A man has since been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with his death, Essex Police confirmed yesterday (28 March).
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Linda chose to have George's friend and Geordie Shore star Ricci Guarnaccio speak on her behalf.
Speaking to The Sun today, Ricci – who met George when they both appeared on Celebrity Big Brother back 2014 – said: "Linda wants to say a huge thank you to everyone who has sent condolences.
"She just wants everyone to remember him for who he was. She’s obviously hurt at the minute but it's hugely appreciated."
Ricci continued: "For the family, for Linda, she really, really wants everyone to know she’s taken back.
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"And she's getting shown a lot of the messages that's come through because she doesn't really deal with Twitter and stuff.
"All the messages that people have been saying - all the stories, all the good times that George's has brought to their lives, and all the funny memories they've got from Gogglebox and Big Brother - it does mean a lot to her.
"So if people could keep doing that, it would be appreciated."
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Guarnaccio also paid tribute to George 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."
George appeared on Gogglebox's second season in 2013 alongside his stepdad Pete McGarry and mum Linda.
They briefly left the show in 2014, but returned in 2016 without George.
They stayed on the show until 2021, when Pete sadly died from cancer at the age of 71.
Featured Image Credit: Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images for St Joseph's Hospice and Haven House Children's Hospice/ InstagramTopics: Celebrity, Gogglebox, News, TV And Film, Channel 4