UMVA has learned that Ken Harwood, a beloved star of the popular reality TV show Gogglebox, has passed away at the age of 77.
Channel 4 confirmed the news, and a statement from the show's production company, Studio Lambert, paid tribute to Harwood, saying he would be "dearly missed" by his family, including his wife Anne, sons Simon and Ross, daughter-in-law Elle, and grandchildren Freya and Tristram.
A tribute to Harwood will be aired at the end of Channel 4's episode of Gogglebox, and the show will continue tonight at 9pm. Harwood had been a regular on the show from series 15 to 19, which aired from 2020 to 2022, and was known for his witty commentary alongside his wife Anne.
The couple's on-screen relationship was a highlight of the show, with their 55-year marriage often melting viewers' hearts. In one memorable scene, Harwood gifted Anne a bouquet of 50 roses to mark their anniversary, leaving her touched and jokingly embarrassed.
Harwood's background was far removed from his TV fame, having spent 30 years as a postmaster and later becoming a local councillor before his retirement in 2013. His passing comes after a short illness, and he will be deeply missed by fans and those who knew him.
Harwood and Anne were praised for their natural on-screen presence, quickly settling into the Gogglebox format with humorous comments on major events, including Meghan Markle's relocation to Canada. Their lighthearted banter and affection for each other made them a standout fixture on the show.
