By Lucy Caulkett-
Essex Police have arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter over the death of Google box star George Gilbey.
George Gilbey, his mother Linda and late stepfather, Pete, were a regular fixture on the Channel 4 show between 2013 and 2018
The incident happened at EGL Homecare, a manufacturing business in Campfield Road, where a single bouquet of flowers could be seen beside entrance gates on Thursday morning.
Gilbey, along with his mum and step dad, featured in eight series of Channel 4’s Gogglebox, between 2013 and 2018, and he also appeared in Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.
The reality star appeared on the then-Channel 5 contest alongside celebrities including The Hills star Stephanie Pratt and American actor Gary Busey, who won the series.
C4 Gogglebox wrote on its official X account: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
Gilbey ran his own company WindG Ltd in Clacton-on-Sea, according to LinkedIn. Former Geordie Shore cast member Ricci Guarnaccio, who appeared in Celebrity Big Brother with Gilbey, said he spoke to his friend only last week.
“You are well and truly going to be missed my friend,” he wrote on X.
“Always lit up the room, cared for others and the memories we made I’ll cherish forever.”
Essex Police were summoned to Shoeburyness near Southend-on-Sea on Wednesday following reports of a fatal fall involving a man working at height.
Gilbey, a self-employed electrician, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have since arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with Gilbey’s death.
The investigation is being conducted jointly with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), with inquiries ongoing.
The incident occurred at EGL Homecare, a manufacturing business located in Campfield Road. A solitary bouquet of flowers placed by the entrance gates serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy that unfolded.
Gilbey gained widespread recognition through his appearances alongside his mother Linda and late stepfather Pete on Channel 4’s Gogglebox, a show that offers viewers a unique perspective on popular television programs by capturing the reactions of ordinary families.
The Gilbeys were a regular fixture on the series from 2013 to 2018. Additionally, Gilbey participated in the 2014 edition of Celebrity Big Brother, where he shared the screen with notable personalities such as Stephanie Pratt and Gary Busey.
The news of Gilbey’s passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from friends and colleagues.
Ricci Guarnaccio, a former cast member of Geordie Shore who appeared alongside Gilbey on Celebrity Big Brother, reminisced about his friend’s infectious personality and genuine kindness. Radio presenter Ian Wyatt also fondly recalled Gilbey’s approachable nature and emphasized his amiable demeanor.
Gilbey, who ran his own company, WindG Ltd, in Clacton-on-Sea, leaves behind a legacy of warmth and affability that endeared him to many.
The circumstances surrounding his untimely demise have prompted both sorrow and concern, with the HSE stating their awareness of the incident and collaboration with law enforcement in the investigation.