Gogglebox star June Bernicoff dies aged 82

Leon and June were together for 62 years

Gogglebox star June Bernicoff has died at the age of 82, Channel 4 has announced.

The broadcaster said she was "at home with her family by her side" and died on Tuesday after a short illness - which was not related to coronavirus.

Bernicoff appeared on the reality TV show with her late husband Leon.

"As the first couple to be cast for Gogglebox back in 2013, June and her husband Leon were a huge part of the programme's success," Channel 4 said.

"Their warmth, wit and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series."

Writing on Twitter, Gogglebox producer Tania Alexander said: "June and Leon were the Gogglebox originals & a huge part of the show's success. I adored them both. Big kiss June darling."

The Bafta-winning show features people sitting in their living rooms watching and reacting to television programmes.

June left the show after Leon's death in December 2017 at the age of 83. She went on to write her first book about their 60-year love affair, titled Leon And June: Our Story.

"Our thoughts are with June's family - Helen and Ian, Julie and Marc, and her beloved grandchildren Frances, Sam and Faye," Channel 4's statement said.

Leon and June were the first people to be cast for Gogglebox when the show started in 2013

"The family would like to ask for privacy at this sad time, but would like to thank the hospice staff that supported them and cared for June so wonderfully and with such compassion in her final weeks."

It added June was a "remarkably independent, principled woman with a vivacious sense of humour and a huge passion for life".

"Despite her departure from the show in 2017, she remained a passionate supporter of the programme, watching it every week, and she was in regular contact with the production team."

The Bernicoffs appeared on the show from their home in Allerton, Liverpool, although June reportedly moved to be near her family in Warwickshire last year.

Gogglebox star Stephen Webb tweeted: "Rest in peace our June, reunited with Leon! Forever in our hearts."

Sky News presenter Kay Burley said: "So very sad to hear that June Bernicoff has died after a short illness. Together with Leon, who passed away two years ago, she was a brilliant addition to Gogglebox."