Geordie Shore star leads tributes to Gogglebox’s George Gilbey after sudden death at 40
GEORDIE Shore's Ricci Guarnaccio has paid tribute to his Gogglebox star friend George Gilbey who has died aged 40.
Ricci - also known for being on Ex on the Beach - appeared in Celebrity Big Brother with George back in 2014.
The reality star is believed to have passed away this morning, following police reports of a man who had "fallen while working at height".
"Breaks my heart," says Ricci.
"George you are well and truly going to be missed my friend.
"Always lit up the room, cared for others and the memories we made I’ll cherish for ever brother.
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"From CBB to speaking to you last week, I’m going to hugely miss you ma boiii! Love you GG."
Another of his Celebrity Big Brother co-stars, James Jordan, said: "Just heard about another friend of mine dying today.
"My thoughts go out to his family. Another one gone way too soon.
RIP George xx."
Ex-EastEnders actress Danniella Westbrook also paid tribute, writing: "Gone too soon. Good night, my darling friend George. I'm absolutely gutted xxx."
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Former Celebs Go Dating agent Nadia Essex wrote: "Heartbroken to hear George has passed.
"I will never forget the crazy times we spent together. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered."
George, his mum Linda and step-dad Pete McGarry were a fan-favourite on Channel 4's Gogglebox when they joined in the second series back in 2013.
The Essex family were axed from the show in 2014 - when George stepped into the Celebrity Big Brother house.
Tributes have been pouring in for the star online, hailing him "one in a million".
George's sister confirmed the news of his death, writing online: "Rest in eternal paradise brother. Far too young but god only takes the best."
It's the second tragedy George's mum Linda has suffered recently, following the death of her husband of 25 years.
Pete died suddenly in 2021 at 71 - days after being told he had six months to live after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.
Linda said at the time her son had been left "really cut up".
Essex Police this afternoon said: "We received a report of an incident at Campfield Road in Shoebury at around 10am this morning (27 March), during which a man who was working at height had fallen and sustained an injury.
"The ambulance service including air ambulance were in attendance. Sadly, the man died at the scene.
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"We will continue liaising with partners including the Heath and Safety Executive.
"A cordon remains in place at the scene."