TV favourite and Gogglebox star Emmie Silbery has passed away at the age of 96, prompting an outpouring of love from across the globe.
Known for her quick wit and no-filter commentary on the Australian version of Gogglebox, Emmie became a household name over her 14-season run. Her death was confirmed by granddaughter Isabelle Silbery in a heartfelt message to fans.
In an emotional Instagram post, Isabelle wrote: “Our Emmie waited for me to come home for one last snuggle. Her last words ‘I’m ready to hang up now.'”
The moment struck a chord with followers, many of whom had grown to see Emmie as their own grandmother through the screen.
Paying tribute, Isabelle reflected on the extraordinary life Emmie led — a life full of resilience, love, and laughter. “She was 96, an orphan, a nurse, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, the oldest woman on TV, a great-grandmother, an author and so much more. Thank you for loving her as much as we did and will forever. Have a big rest now- you deserve it. Xxxx.”
It’s not often someone touches lives in such a quiet yet powerful way. Emmie did exactly that — without trying. She spoke her mind, told her stories, and didn’t shy away from throwing in a cheeky remark or two.
Though she stepped away from the cameras in 2022 due to her declining health, the void she left was felt immediately by fans and co-stars alike.
Lee and Keith, fellow cast members from Gogglebox Australia, were among the first to pay tribute: “Our hearts are so heavy with sadness. Emmie was our adopted grandmother to Keith and I as we lost our grandparents years ago. You told us so many stories about your life and now they are memories for us to keep. Rest in peace, sweetheart, you’ll never be far from our hearts. Love ya Emm.”
Other fans quickly followed suit, flooding the comments with memories and messages of condolence. “Beautiful Emmie. Words can’t describe what you meant to so many of us. Thank you for the countless laughs, tears, goosebumps and memories! Rest now. Your girls are so loved and looked after.”
Another simply added: “Oh I am just so so sorry to hear. Sending so much love to you and your family.”
“Everyone’s TV Nan,” one user affectionately called her. “Sending all my love to you all.”
Her passing coincides with the airing of the celebrity edition of Gogglebox in the UK — a bittersweet reminder of her legacy. The latest episode, however, left fans puzzled after Happy Mondays legends Shaun Ryder and Bez were nowhere to be seen, despite being favourites in previous seasons.
Still, stars like Rylan Clark, Roman Kemp, and Cat Deeley brought the banter, keeping viewers entertained — just as Emmie once did with her trademark mix of sass and sincerity.
Her absence will be felt. Not just on the sofa, but in living rooms everywhere.
Rest well, Emmie. TV won’t be the same without you.
