Emmie Silbery has died, aged 96, after a battle with dementia. She was known for her role on the Australian version of Gogglebox alongside her family.
The news was announced by her granddaughter Isabelle, who shared a moving tribute on Instagram. She wrote: “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.”
She added: “Our Emmie, waited for me to come home for one last snuggle. Her last words ‘I’m ready to hang up now.” Isabelle thanked fans for the love they had shared with Emmie over the years.
The message continued: “Thank you for loving her as much as we did and will forever. Have a big rest now- you deserve it.”
Fellow Australian Gogglebox stars Lee and Keith commented: “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 messages came from Lisa Wilkinson, who wrote “I’m so sad to hear the news Isabelle. What a beautiful, talented, giving soul she was, and so loved by us all.
“I hope she knew that. Glad you got that last snuggle. Sending love to you and your wonderful mum.xx”
Another heartfelt tribute said: “Big love to you all – you know how much I loved Emmie, and all of you. Thank you for your kindness, humour and wisdom on the box.”
The official Gogglebox Australia account said: “On hearing the sad news of Emmie’s passing, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Silbery family.
“Emmie’s wicked sense of humour and cheeky wry smile were a ray of sunshine we were lucky enough to bask in.”
Emmie joined the Australian version of the show in 2015, but stepped down in 2022 after being diagnosed with dementia. At the time, her granddaughter said: “It’s been a tough few months for us all, but we want everyone to know that Emmie is in the best care and between Mum and I, we visit her almost every day.
“Whether it’s for happy hour on Fridays or taking her dog Pelle in for cuddles, she still lights up the room, and us, with her cheeky smile. We hope by being transparent with this news, that it helps to open up the conversation about dementia and the challenges that many families sadly have to face.”
Gogglebox Australia was launched in 2015, two years after the British version, which airs on Channel 4. There are 15 international versions in all.