\'Gogglebox\'s Leon Bernicoff has died at the age of 83.
The retired teacher - who starred on the Channel 4 show alongside his wife June - passed away in hospital on Saturday (23.12.17) after a short battle with an illness.
Channel 4 and production company Studio Lambert said in a statement: "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."
Whilst \'Gogglebox\' creator Tania Alexander wrote on Twitter: "So deeply saddened at the passing of our dear, dear Leon. He was and always will be the grandfather of #gogglebox - an absolute star who always made me laugh with his sharp wit and unshakable opinions. Much love and strength to June."
Leon\'s fellow \'Gogglebox\' stars have also been paying tribute to the late television star.
Scott and Georgia McCormick wrote: "Omg I\'ve just heard!!! poor#leon I\'m gutted absolutely gutted. @LeonAndJune sending all our love and strength . So so sorry to hear this . Xxxx (sic)"
Leon is survived by his wife, his two daughters and sons-in-law and his grandchildren.
