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Gogglebox adds another big star to lineup – amid Baggs family exit

The Channel 4 show recently wrapped its current series

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Francesca Shillcock
Senior Features Writer
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Gogglebox has been making some big changes to its roster of cast members in recent times – but now, the Celebrity version of the show, which lands on screens next week, has added a very famous face!

MORE: Gogglebox viewers devastated as fan favourite family quit show - and share surprising reason why

Appearing alongside Giles Brandreth for the upcoming episodes will be Absolutely Fabulous legend Joanna Lumley. The actress, who is known and adored for her part as Patsy Stone in the iconic comedy, will take to the sofa to fill in for Coronation Street star Maureen Lipman, who previously sat beside Giles before she quit in 2021.

WATCH: Gogglebox star Pete Sandiford shares video of son Jimmy

According to the Mirror, the Ab Fab star said she was "honoured" to join the Channel 4 programme, which she branded as a tick off her bucket list. She and Giles have been friends for over 50 years, therefore their on-screen chemistry is sure to cement them as fan-favourites!

Prior to Joanna and Maureen, Giles, who was previously a Conservative MP, was joined by veteran actress Sheila Hancock.

Joanna's addition to the line-up comes soon after the regular series of Gogglebox saw a beloved family depart the show. The Baggs family, who reside in Essex, announced the news via Joe and George's Instagram accounts.

MORE: When is Gogglebox back on screens?

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joanna lumley© Photo: Getty Images

Joanna Lumley is joining Gogglebox!

They revealed that while they've "loved" taking part in the show, they couldn't commit to another season due to "exciting opportunities" on the horizon.

The statement read: "Hey everyone! Wanted to give you a quick update on the Baggs family. After three incredible seasons on Channel 4's Gogglebox, we have taken the decision to leave the show.

"We have loved every second of being part of the Gogglebox family and it's truly been the opportunity of a lifetime."

baggs gogglebox© Photo: Instagram

The Baggs family recently announced they were leaving

Viewers and followers were naturally saddened by their update. One person said: "Nooo!!! Gonna miss you guys. I'll keep following on tik tok." 

A second wrote: "Nooooooo!!!! One of my faves from the show. But to be honest you're more entertaining over on tiktok. I hope you guys leaving means there's a possibility of your own show coming."

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