Gogglebox Families Defend Themselves Over Social Distancing

After criticism was aimed at Gogglebox for allegedly breaking social distancing rules, the stars of the show have defended their actions.

The government put strict lockdown measures in place in March, but viewers have been left confused as to how filming was continuing, with many taking to social media to voice their disapproval.

Complaints had been made to independent body Ofcom about the show, leading to Channel 4 assuring viewers that the rules were being followed, ahead of Friday night's episode (1 May).

Channel 4

Just before the show started, the announcer told viewers: "Just in case you're worried, they are all keeping to the guidelines of social distancing."

But the Malone family - Tom, Julie, Tom Junior and Shaun - have had their say on the matter, wading in to defend themselves against those who had expressed their disapproval.

A post from the family's official Twitter account reads: "Just going to put this out there so we are all up to date, I know the social distancing rules too, I love my grandkids, I would never put them or anyone else's health in danger.

"My daughter and her children live with us, so she can go to work as a nurse."

Fans jumped to the family's defence, with many responding with their own individual living situations:

One person replied: "Blimey, you shouldn't have to explain yourselves so many people go shouting before knowing facts! Hope you're all OK and staying safe, and your daughter is a hero."

Another said: "Feel your frustration. My neighbours are judging me for not doing the clap for carers by blanking me. They are unaware that I am WFH in the afternoons and evenings taking customers' last will & testament and funeral instructions at set times so I cannot. Could just ask me."

Viewers also spotted that sisters Ellie and Izzi had been filming in the same living room. In previous episodes, Ellie had appeared with her boyfriend Nat instead of Izzi, so fans were confused when Izzi returned on the 17 April episode.

Despite keeping more than 2m apart on the sofa, the sisters don't appear to live together, so would likely have been visiting each other to record the show.

Government guidance on coronavirus reads: "You should not be visiting family members who do not live in your home."

Topics: TV and Film, gogglebox

Amelia Ward

Amelia is a journalist at LADbible. After studying journalism at Liverpool John Moores and Salford Uni (don't ask), she went into PR and then the world of music. After a few years working on festivals and events, she went back to her roots. In her spare time, Amelia likes music, Liverpool FC, and spending good, quality time with her cat, Paul. You can contact Amelia at [email protected].

@ameliasward