Gogglebox star Andy Michael has died at the age of 61, Studio Lambert has announced.
He sadly passed away follow following a short illness, a statement from Channel 4 and Studio Lambert on behalf of his family has said.
He was the father and husband of the Michael family, who grew popular from their first series with the hit TV show in 2013. He would be seen in his spot in the recliner next to wife Carolyne who was often knitting.
READ MORE: GMB's Susanna Reid slams Dominic Raab for photoshoot after Crete holiday amid Afghanistan crisis
The family first appeared on Gogglebox in the debut episode in 2013, but announced in 2014 that they were leaving because Mr Michael was running for Ukip in the general election.
After he failed to secure the Hastings and Rye seat, the family returned for future episodes, according to PA reporters.
The statement, given to the PA news agency, said: "We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Gogglebox star Andy Michael at the age of 61 following a short illness.
"Andy passed away last weekend with his family by his side.
"Retired hotelier Andy, who brought much wit and insight to Gogglebox, was one of the show's original cast members, appearing in the very first episode in 2013.
"Beloved father to Katy, Alex, Pascal and Louis, and cherished husband of Carolyne, Andy was a much-loved and respected member of the Gogglebox family, and he will be very sadly missed.
"Our love and thoughts are with Carolyne and the entire family. The family have asked for privacy at this very sad time".
Taking to social media, Gogglebox bosses mourned the passing of one of their biggest stars.
They wrote: "We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Gogglebox star Andy Michael at the age of 61 following a short illness.
"Our thoughts are with his family at this time. Andy will be truly missed by the entire Gogglebox family, cast and crew."
Fellow Gogglebox cast member Sophie Sandiford, who appears on the Channel 4 show with brother Pete Sandiford and their giant tea mugs, was one of the first Gogglebox stars to pay tribute to her late co-star.
Quote-tweeting the original statement from the Googlebox account, she wrote: "Rest in peace Andy" and added a sad-face emoji to her words.
Andy's passing has also been acknowledged by UKIP, the political party he once stood for as a candidate.
Tweeting to their 169,000 followers, the party wrote: "RIP to former UKIP candidate Andy Michael. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time."
Earlier this week it was announced that Gogglebox star Mary Cook had died at the age of 92 and last month Pete McGarry passed away.
