TV favourite June Bernicoff quits Gogglebox

June Bernicoff has quit Gogglebox following the death of husband Leon in December. 

The couple were hugely popular on the Channel 4 show, but after the 83-year-old retired teacher sadly passed away, June has revealed she won’t be returning without her spouse.

After a fan asked on Twitter, ‘Would you do the show with one of your daughters? X (sic)’, June responded: ‘It was a great adventure with a great finale with the NTA (sic).’ 

Leon passed away in hospital following a short battle with an illness.

Channel 4 and production company Studio Lambert said in a statement: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sad news that after a short illness Gogglebox’s Leon Bernicoff passed away in hospital earlier today. 

‘Leon and his wife June were the first members of the public to be cast for Gogglebox back in early 2013, and they soon grew to become much-loved voices during the course of the show’s 10 series to date.

Tragic: Leon passed away in hospital following a short battle with an illness

‘Leon’s unique personality and sharp wit endeared him to fans of the show, as he contributed fully to Gogglebox’s reputation as a programme full of warm humour and unvarnished opinion.

‘To those of us that knew him personally, Leon was a man of unwavering principles who exerted a distinct paternal presence both on and off screen. He will be dearly missed by the entire Gogglebox family; cast and crew.’ 

Whilst Gogglebox creator Tania Alexander wrote on Twitter: ‘So deeply saddened at the passing of our dear, dear Leon. He was and always will be the grandfather of #gogglebox – an absolute star who always made me laugh with his sharp wit and unshakable opinions. Much love and strength to June.’   

Much loved: Leon and June were a popular fixture on the Channel 4 reality show

Leon’s fellow Gogglebox stars also paid touching tributes to the much-loved television star.

Scott and Georgia McCormick wrote: ‘Omg I’ve just heard!!! poor#leon I’m gutted absolutely gutted. @LeonAndJune sending all our love and strength . So so sorry to hear this . Xxxx (sic)’

The programme won Best Factual Entertainment Programme at last week’s National Television Awards in London.