Gogglebox star Andy Michael dies after a short illness

May he rest in peace.

Gogglebox star andy Michael has sadly passed away at the age of 61 after battling a short illness. Channel 4 and Studio Lambert have confirmed his death on behalf of his family as they mourn the loss of their loved one. With his family by his side when he passed, the statement read: "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." The family were one of the first to appear on the show when it debuted in 2013 and have been a fan favourite despite leaving the series only a year later in 2014. The family were dropped when Andy announced he was standing as a candidate for Ukip, as Channel 4 said: "Sadly any Gogglebox cast member who becomes a candidate for a political party will have to step down from their involvement in Gogglebox." After failing to get a seat, the family were welcomed back to the series, much to fans delight. It has been a hard week for Gogglebox fans as it was announced earlier in the week that fellow Gogglebox star Mary Cook had died at the age of 92.