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Gogglebox stars Giles Wood and Mary Killen have led tributes to their co-star Pete McGarry after he died at the age of 71.
The Channel 4 favourite passed away over the weekend surrounded by all of his family following a short illness which they clarified was not related to COVID-19.
The couple first joined the show in its second series in 2013 before they took a three-year break, becoming fan favourites again after they returned with a bang in 2016.
The news was first announced by Channel 4 on Monday and since then the family have been hit with a wave of support and condolences from loyal fans of the hit show.
They wrote: “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.
“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.”
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Friends, fans and cast members alike have since paid tribute to the TV star on social media following the shocking news.
Giles and Mary soon shared a sweet message to the heartbroken family during this tough time.
They wrote: “Very sad to hear of the death of #Gogglebox’s Pete. My thoughts go out to Linda, George & his family at this terrible time.”
Welsh co-stars Dave and Shirley Griffiths added: “so sad to hear of pete’s passing, a loved member of #Gogglebox thinking of linda and all the family in such sad times.”
Tom Malone Jr, who recently shared a throwback of his dad with a moustache, agreed as he tweeted: “Very sad news … my thoughts and prayers go out to Linda and the rest of the family. RIP.”
Expressing a similar sentiment as others, Comedian Paddy McGuinness commented: “Such a shame, one of the OG’s. RIP.”
Fans poured out their love for the hilarious couple and celebrated all the good Pete did throughout his life.
One user wrote: “Amazing family fostering all those precious children. I hope they can all give him the send off he deserves and that Covid restrictions won’t get in the way. RIP Pete.”
Another agreed: “He was such a lovely, affable man on our screens – never an unkind word, always a twinkle in his eye.
“Sincere condolences to Linda, George and family. May he Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.”
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