Gogglebox star Pete McGarry dies aged 71 after a short illness
The Channel 4 show has paid tribute.
Gogglebox star Pete McGarry, who appeared on the show with his wife Linda McGarry and her son George Gilbey, has died at the age of 71, the show's official Twitter account confirmed.
The Channel 4 programme paid tribute to Pete, who died after a short illness. His death was not related to COVID-19.
"We are deeply saddened to announce that Gogglebox star Pete McGarry passed away at the age of 71 this weekend with his family by his side after a short illness," the statement said.
"Pete, his wife Linda and her son George originally joined Gogglebox at the start of the second series in 2013. The Clacton couple returned to the show for the seventh series in 2016 and have been series regulars and firm favourites ever since," Channel 4 continued. "Pete will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew.
"Our thoughts are with Linda, their children and grandchildren. Since 2000, Pete and Linda have fostered over a hundred children and he is a beloved father, husband and grandfather. The family have asked for privacy at this sad time.
"Pete's death was not related to COVID-19."
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Pete and Linda have fostered dozens of children, and they continued to foster during their time on Gogglebox. Speaking of their fostering history, Linda told the Daily Star: “I always say all you need to be a foster parent is a spare room, a sense of humour and a good heart.
“I’ve just brought them up as my own. On Mother’s Day I get so many phone calls. They don’t forget you. A lot still regard me and Pete as their parents.”
She added: “They’re often petrified when they first come to us. But I make them feel welcome and tell them to help themselves if they’re hungry and tell them it’s their home."
The pair went on to adopt the first child they fostered in 2000, then 11-year-old Chris.
Following the news of Pete's passing, Gogglebox co-star Tom Malone Jr led the tributes on Twitter, posting: "Very sad news... my thoughts and prayers go out to Linda and the rest of the family RIP".
Fans joined in, remembering some of Pete's most iconic moments on the show.
"So sad to hear of Pete McGarry from Gogglebox passing away!" one Tweeted. "One of the OG families and icons. Will always remember that time his son kicked his shoe into Pete’s chippy."
Another added: "Very sad to hear that Pete McGarry from #Gogglebox has died aged 71 after a short illness. Sending my warmest thoughts to his family at this tragic time".
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Authors
Minnie Wright is the News Editor of Radio Times, covering TV, Film and Entertainment from the latest dramas and thrillers to sci-fi, fantasy and reality TV – from BBC to Netflix. She has a background in TV, Film, Showbiz and Music at a major national publication and a degree in Popular Music Journalism.
