Five stars of 'Gogglebox' are stepping back from the show following the death of their loved ones.

Mary Cook and Marina Wingrove

Mary Cook and Marina Wingrove

The Channel 4 programme has seen three regulars sadly pass away this summer, within months of one another.

Pete McGarry died in June, aged 71, after a short illness, and Andrew Michael, 61, and Mary Cook, 92, passed away last month.

And it has been confirmed that Pete's other half Linda, Andrew's wife Carolyne and children Louis and Alex, and Mary's friend Marina Wingrove won't be back on screens for the time being.

Gogglebox’s executive producer Victoria Ray told the Daily Star: “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.

“It’s a massive loss in every way. We feel it too. We are still in touch with all the loved ones. We talk to them all the time. They are still part of the Gogglebox family.”

Mary and Marina had taken a year off from the entertainment show due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, they were able to return to the programme in May this year.

The pair returned for the final episode, and the hilarious Bristolians delighted fans with their wit.

Mary passed away in hospital with her family by her side.

A statement shared on the show's Twitter page read: "We are extremely saddened to share that 'Gogglebox' star Mary Cook passed away in hospital this weekend at the age of 92 with her family by her side.

"Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and dear friend to many, Mary, who worked in the hospitality trade, had been married and widowed twice.

"Bristolians Mary and Marina met at St Monica Trust retirement village over 10 years ago and had been friends ever since.

"They joined 'Gogglebox' in 2016 at the start of series eight and became instant fan favourites due to their brilliantly witty and often cheeky comments.

"Mary will be sorely missed by the entire 'Gogglebox' family, cast and crew."

Channel 4 added: "We are so saddened to hear of the loss of 'Gogglebox' star Mary Cook.

"Our love and thoughts are with Mary’s family, friends, and Marina."