Gogglebox: Brexit Special pays an emotional tribute to Caroline Aherne
It was the first episode of the show since Caroline passed away.
Gogglebox has paid an emotional tribute to former narrator Caroline Aherne, who passed away from cancer aged 52.
During a 'Brexit special' of the Channel 4 hit - the first episode to air since Caroline's death in July 2016 - the makers chose to end the show with a simple message, 'In loving memory of Caroline Aherne', whilst Oasis' Half a World Away played over the credits.
Viewers thought it was a lovely way to reflect on the life and work of the comedy actress, writer and presenter, with one tweeting 'Lovely acknowledgement of the wonderful Caroline Aherne at the end of #Gogglebox', and another agreeing 'The end of #Gogglebox remembered Caroline Aherne with Oasis' "Half the world away" - nice touch.'
Gogglebox cast members Lee and Jenny and sisters Ellie and Izzy also tweeted their thoughts on the tribute.
Publicist Neil Reading confirmed the sad news of Caroline's passing on Saturday 2nd July 2016, released a statement saying, 'Caroline Aherne has sadly passed away, after a brave battle with cancer.'
'The Bafta award-winning writer and comedy actor died earlier today at her home in Timperley, Greater Manchester. She was 52.'
'The family ask for privacy at this very sad time.'
GoodtoKnow Newsletter
Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.
Caroline had previously battled bladder and eye cancer, but was most recently diagnosed with lung cancer.
Many of her friends and former co-stars paid their respects at the time.
Sue Johnston, who played Caroline's mother in The Royle Family, said, 'I am devastated at her passing and I am numb with grief', whilst fellow cast member Ralf Little, who played her brother, added on Twitter, 'I... just don't know what to say. What a sad sad day. We've lost another one of our best.'
''A character. A legend. A boss. A sister, real and (for me), fake. A boss. A writer. An actor. A genius. A friend. Big, big heart. Goodbye x.'
Caroline and her cast mates in the Royle Family
Ricky Tomlinson, Caroline's father in the show, told the Sunday Mirror, 'I'm so bloody shocked. She was absolutely wonderful and amazing to work for. Kind, funny, witty.'
'A true professional and one of the most generous people I ever worked with.'
In addition to her on-screen roles, including Mrs Merton and The Fast Show, Caroline also narrated Gogglebox, which many of the stars marked with a message.
Scarlett Moffatt wrote on Twitter, 'Can't believe what I'm hearing 😢 what a beautiful, inspiring woman we have lost. Gogglebox will never be the same #CarolineAherne', whilst Steph and Dom Parker said that they would love to have a one-off special of the show to honour Caroline's work.
'I can already picture a tribute show and I would be desperate to watch and relive the many special funny moments she gave us,' said Dom.
'I’m sure we will do something to honour her immeasurable contribution to the show’s success.'
Trusted, informative, and empathetic – GoodToKnow is the ultimate online destination for parents. At GoodtoKnow, our mission is 'simple': we're trying to make sense of parenthood. On the site, you'll find everything you need for a happy, healthy family life. Our huge archive of content includes more than 18,000 articles and 1,500 how-to videos. These include expert-backed advice features on parenting, dealing with relationship changes after having a baby, self-care for mums and managing your family finances. We also feature tried-and-tested product reviews and buying recommendations for every stage of family life - from prams and Moses baskets to birthday gifts and top toys.