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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Nika Shakhnazarova

Gogglebox hit with Ofcom complaints over 'stars not obeying social distancing rules'

Gogglebox has been hit with a slew of complaints from angry viewers who claim the stars are not listening to the government's rules on social distancing.

Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom has fielded gripes from 20 viewers who had concerns about the Channel 4 show, according to The Sun.

Fans were worried about the friends and family members watching telly together on Gogglebox as many don't live together - and they would be breaking guidelines if they'd travelled to another household.

Sisters Izzi and Ellie, best friends Jenny and Lee together don't share a home, while viewers also questioned whether the Plummer brothers, and siblings Sophie and Pete had moved in together to isolate during lockdown.

However, despite viewer concerns Channel 4 bosses have insisted the stars are following the latest government guidelines.

Ellie's boyfriend Nat has taken Izzi's place since the measures were introduced (Channel 4)

A show spokesperson told Mirror Online: "Most of the families live together but where they don’t, they are complying with PHE social distancing guidelines.

"Gogglebox will only film with families where it’s safe to do so. The health and safety of our cast and crew is paramount."

An episode which aired two weeks ago didn't show social distancing because it was filmed before the country was put into lockdown.

Viewers questioned if siblings Sophie and Pete had moved in together for lockdown (Channel 4)

However, last Friday's show featured the changes that had been made by Channel 4 bosses.

Some of the usual on-screen groups have been forced to be separated.

Izzie Warner was replaced by her sister Ellie's boyfriend, but Lee Riley and Jenny Newby were still there after deciding to spend lockdown together.

Sid Siddiqui was also missing because of the two metre social distancing rule, however his sons decided to carry on filming without him.

Jenny and Lee have decided to spend the lockdown period together (Channel 4)

Channel 4 bosses have also installed stationary cameras in their living rooms to stop any contact with production staff.

Ian Katz, Channel 4's director of programming said: "The coronavirus outbreak is an enormous creative challenge for all broadcasters and though it is having a profound impact on getting some of our productions onto screen...

"It’s also a time when public service broadcasters like Channel 4 can step up and help people navigate through the extraordinary challenges we all now face.”

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