One of the newest families on Channel 4 hit Gogglebox have denied they have been kicked off the show after just a single series.
The Essex-based Baggs family have been accused of sparking a viewer backlash.
And an insider told the Daily Star: "The Baggs family are out of the show and won’t be appearing anymore.
"They only lasted one series. It was short and sweet."
However, mum Lisa, dad Terry and sons George and Joe - who joined the show last year, say they have only been absent from the most recent run of shows due to coronavirus restrictions, the Mirror reports.
In an Instagram post she set the record straight on their absence.
Sharing a link to an article claiming they were axed from the show for failing to impress viewers, Lisa fired: "I can categorically say this is a total LIE!
"Due to covid restrictions we are unable to film the current series.
"Channel 4 have been wonderful to work with and we hope to be back one day soon," she insisted.
Eldest son Joe went into more detail about their sudden departure from the show on his Instagram.
He told followers that producers would never drop a new family for being unpopular with fans.
"Frustrating to address this but we weren't dropped," he began.
"Due to the lockdown there aren't enough cameras to go round to t he entire cast and therefore we decided as a family to take a series off.
"Of course there was criticism about us, the producers said this happens to all new families so it's not uncommon and not a reason for people to get cut from the show," he explained.
It comes after a number of shake-ups to the cast of the much-loved Friday night show.
Last month, Tom Malone Jr announced he was leaving the show after six years to pursue other ventures.
The professional dancer told fans: "So after years it's finally time to put down the remote and say goodbye to Gogglebox.
"I've loved every minute and I'm eternally grateful to Channel 4 and Studio Lambert for allowing me to be a part of the show. But new opportunities are knocking on the door and it's time to explore them.
"I look forward to enjoying the show as a viewer and not having to worry about having said something stupid!"
"P.S. Don't worry my parents and my brother will still be on the show to keep you guys entertained every Friday.”
Gogglebox returns tonight on Channel 4 at 9pm
