Who was George Gilbey? From Gogglebox star to Celebrity Big Brother contestant

GEORGE Gilbey became known for his funny jokes and sparkling wit on Gogglebox - something he famously continued in the Celebrity Big Brother house.

The Essex star tragically died in March, 2024, with celebrities and fans across the country paying tribute to him.

Who was George Gilbey?

George Gilbey, 40, was a reality TV star from Clacton, Essex.

He was best known for appearing with his family on the Channel 4 show Gogglebox.

The star, with mum Linda and step-dad Peter McGarry, first appeared on the second ever series in 2013.

The family was cut from the show in 2014 - and George went on to take part in Celebrity Big Brother.

He was a fan favourite in the CBB house and made his way to the final, finishing fourth.

The family then returned to Gogglebox in February 2016.

Tragically in 2021 step-dad Pete died suddenly after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.

Linda said at the time that Pete had been "her life", and George had been "really cut up" by his stepfather's death.

Grieving Linda then got the horror news on March 27, 2024, that George had died.

Tributes quickly poured in for the star.

One pal told The Sun: "This will hit his family very hard, especially Linda.

"First, she lost Pete, now her son as well.

"She is incredibly emotional. George was like her little treasure."

They continued: "George was George. He was a good bloke with a big heart who loved his family.

"He was a bit of a party lad, but he was good entertainment for everyone who knew him.

"Nobody deserves this to happen so young - 40 is no age and to die at work is horrific.

TV star Ricci Guarnaccio, best known for his time on Geordie Shore, also paid tribute to George.

He wrote: "Breaks my heart but George Gilbey you are well and truely going to be missed my friend.

"Always lit up the room, cared for others and 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 my boy.

"Love you GG."

Channel 4 also released a statement, saying the star was always part of the "family";.

It read: “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.”

The tragic last photo of the star was snapped just days before he died - a selfie he'd taken after joining the gym.

How did he die?

George died on the morning of March 27, 2024, while at work.

Cops confirmed he had "fallen from height" and died at the scene.

Essex Police said in statement: "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.

"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."

What happened between George Gilbey and his girlfriend?

George was given an 18-month rehabilitation order and 100 hours of unpaid work after being found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Gemma Conway.

He avoided jail but was  £1,105 in fines and costs.

George and Gemma met at Royal Ascot in 2015.

They share a daughter, Amelie, who was born in 2016.