Gogglebox's Malone family defend themselves from viewer complaints over social distancing

Many are confused as to how show can continue despite lockdown

The stars of Gogglebox have defended themselves following criticism for “breaking social distancing rules” on the show.

Since the government enforced strict lockdown guidelines, viewers have been confused as to how the show has been proceeding, with many lambasting the C4 show’s participants on social media.

Following complaints to Ofcom, C4 assured viewers ahead of Friday night’s episode (1 May): “Just in case you’re worried, they are all keeping to the guidelines of social distancing.”

However, the Malone family – comprised of Tom, Julie, Tom Jnr and Shaun – have felt the need to wade in, with either Tom or Julie writing: “Just going to put this out there so we are all up to date, I know the social distancing rules too, I love my Grandkids, I would never put them or anyone else’s health in danger.

The tweet continued: “My daughter and her children live with us,so she can go to work as a nurse.”

Gogglebox‘s latest episode divided viewers after showing its many stars mocking Boris Johnson while watching his first speech after recovering from coronavirus in hospital.

Some viewers felt the comments were ill-timed, expressing that this is a time to be spreading positivity.

“Always loved Gogglebox but why so much anti-Boris clips in a time when the country should be united and try to find the positives in life rather than looking for someone to blame,” one viewer wrote.