Gogglebox star Leon Bernicoff has died after a short illness.
A joint statement between Channel 4 and the hit reality show’s production company on behalf of the retired teacher’s family confirmed his passing.
Allerton resident Mr Bernicoff died in hospital on Saturday at the age of 83.
Both he and wife June had been veterans of Gogglebox since its 2013 launch, appearing in all 10 of its series to date.
Channel 4 and Studio Lambert said: “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.
“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.”