Advertisement

Gogglebox boss says fan favourite duo Mary and Marina are safe and well

Photo credit: Channel 4
Photo credit: Channel 4

From Digital Spy

Gogglebox boss Tania Alexander has reassured fans that friends Mary and Marina are safe and well, but have stopped filming new episodes of the popular reality show amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Viewers have been taking to social media in recent weeks to voice their worries over the Bristol-based besties, as they noted the pair's absence in recent instalments.

But it turns out, they had nothing to be concerned about when it comes to the retirement village residents.

Photo credit: Channel 4
Photo credit: Channel 4

Related: Gogglebox star Giles Wood reveals his NSFW fantasy

"Unfortunately, it was not possible to film with the full cast," Alexander explained in a lengthy piece about the show's coronavirus-related production changes for The Telegraph.

"For example, we took the decision to tell Mary and Marina, who are in their 90s and live in a care home, that we didn't want them put at any risk, so we should stop filming with them altogether."

"The ladies are safe and well looked-after, but often tell us they dearly miss the crews and the fun they have during filming each week," she concluded.

Photo credit: Channel 4
Photo credit: Channel 4

Related: Gogglebox stars announce new project for very good cause

Since the current series began on February 21, people tuning in have criticised some of its stars for supposedly breaking the government's social distancing rules – most notably, sisters Ellie and Izzi Warner.

The show responded to the complaints ahead of an episode on May 1, where Channel 4's continuity announcer opened the instalment by saying: "Just in case you're worried, they are all keeping to the guidelines of social distancing."

Gogglebox airs on Channel 4.


The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it's possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice, visit the World Health Organisation. If you're in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.


Digital Spy now has a newsletter – sign up to get it sent straight to your inbox.

Looking for more TV recommendations and discussion? Head over to our Facebook Group to see new picks every day, and chat with other readers about what they're watching right now.

You Might Also Like