Gogglebox Gilbey family – George fall, Pete tragic death and Linda's child confession

A Gogglebox family has been rocked by tragedy multiple times over the years, with their most recent loss being this year. George Gilbey died aged just 40 after a 'work accident' last month. 

The father-of-one left behind a seven-year-old daughter - Amelie Iris Gilbey. Hundreds of mourners, including his mother Linda who wore a veiled fascinator on her head, turned up to say their farewell at his funeral yesterday (April 25). 

The emotional service and committal took place at a crematorium near his home in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex. There were touching messages left alongside claret and blue flowers, as well as West Ham United badges in honour of George's favourite football team.

Fellow Gogglebox star and mum, Linda, was said to be "in bits" at the service. A source said: "George has been laid to rest and his family have said their last goodbyes, it was a terribly sad day and devastating for everyone concerned, particularly his mother Linda who was in bits."

Following an inquest, it was concluded that George had died from traumatic head and torso injuries after falling 80ft from a roof he was working on. Coroner's officer Deborah Frost said Mr Gilbey had been "working on a roof when he fell through a plastic skylight, landing on the ground below".

What tragedy has Gogglebox's Gilbey family faced?

The death of the reality TV star, who found fame on the Channel 4 show before appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, was the second loss the family had faced in recent years. George's stepfather Pete McGarry passed away from bowel cancer in 2021. 

Linda revealed that he had been diagnosed with the disease earlier in the year but despite a recent operation to remove the tumour, was told he only had six months to live. Tragically, he died just days after the prognosis.

A statement issued on behalf of the family at the time said: "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. 

"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 100 children and he is a beloved father, husband and grandfather. The family have asked for privacy at this sad time."

What is Gogglebox's Linda Gilbey's real job?

As well as facing tragedy, mum of the family, Linda, has had a lot of love to give. She carries her caring personality over into her real life off-screen job. 

Along with Pete, they fostered several children over the years. In 2016 Linda told The Daily Star: "It's enhanced our lives so much. It's very rewarding. I've just loved doing it.

"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 that her son George was just 15 when she and Pete began fostering saying: "He's always classed the other boys as his brothers. He never moaned. He always shared everything. He's got a good heart. He does drive me mad, but he's a good boy."