GOGGLEBOX have confirmed the Michael family will not be returning to the show.

The Channel 4 programme returns to screen on Friday night after a four-month break.

But following the death of three of its stars, five members of the cast will not be returning – including the Michael family, who are based in Brighton.

Andrew Michael died last month at the age of 61 following a short illness.

The Brighton family first appeared on Gogglebox in the debut episode in 2013, but announced in 2014 that they were leaving as Andrew was running for Ukip in the general election.

After he failed to secure the Hastings and Rye seat, the family returned for future episodes.

In August, Gogglebox announced the retired hotelier had passed away with his family by his side.

Andrew had appeared on the show alongside his wife Carolyne and their children Alex and Louis, with their two other children Katy and Pascal also making appearances over the years.

However, none of the family will be returning this series.

Co-stars Pete McGarry and Mary Cook also recently passed away.

Pete’s wife Linda and Mary’s friend Marina have stepped away from the show.

In an interview with the Daily Star, Gogglebox executive producer Victoria Ray said: "We have had people from the show pass away recently.

"We lost Mary and Andy, and a little while ago we lost Pete. Their loved ones won't be taking part in the show for the moment. Understandably, they want their privacy."

According to Victoria, all of the stars have the option to return to Gogglebox in the future if they would like to.

Co-star Julie Malone honoured the late Gogglebox favourites as she accepted a National Television Award on the show's behalf earlier this month.

In a moving tribute, she said: "On behalf of the Gogglebox family, I would just like to say a massive thanks for this award and on a sadder note, I'd like to dedicate it to all the people we've lost over the last 18 months.

"Andy, Pete, Mary and everybody's favourite grandma June who has been reunited with Leon."

Original cast member June Bernicoff passed away in May 2020 - three years after her husband Leon.