Gogglebox fans say show 'not the same' and bemoan 'big loss'

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Gogglebox fans are thrilled the show is back for a new series - but admitted they're missing two old favourites. The armchair critics returned to their sofas on Friday night but this time without original star Stephen Webb.

Stephen and husband Daniel Lustig confirmed their departure from the long-running series earlier this week. A statement from programme makers Studio Lambert said: “After a brilliant and illustrious time on Gogglebox, Stephen and Daniel have decided that now is the right time to explore life beyond the sofa and leave the show." The couple took to Instagram to confirm the news with a joint post that read: "We feel like the time is right to move on and explore new opportunities.

We would both like to thank Channel 4 and Studio Lambert for letting us be part of this amazing, funny and heartwarming show. Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features. "We are also extremely thankful to the cast and crew, our Gogglebox family as we call them and of course the fans, thank you for all your love & support over the years." Viewers on Twitter shared their delight at the show's return on Friday, with @AlexPaterson0 saying: "It's back, Friday nights are great again".

And @Andy666666 said: "yeahhhhhhhhh at last a bit of good telly x fastest hour of the week." However @arngelar said: "Really not the same without Stephen and Daniel is it #gogglebox" and @tvreality93 said: "Losing Stephen is a big loss im finding this quite boring missing some of the old cast #gogglebox" @abdulmohamed02 said: "Not gonna be the same #Gogglebox without Stephen and Daniel, really enjoyed their reviews" while @ThomasF24943789 commented: "It’s weird watching @C4Gogglebox without Stephen