Former Gogglebox Australia favourite Emmie Silbery has passed away peacefully at the age of 96.
The Australian television community is paying tribute to Emmie Silbery, the cherished matriarch of the Silbery family on Gogglebox Australia, who has died aged 96. Her granddaughter, Isabelle Silbery, confirmed her passing on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt message that reflected on Emmie’s remarkable life and the affection she inspired.
Emmie Silbery became a familiar face to viewers after joining Gogglebox in 2016, appearing alongside her daughter Kerry and granddaughter Isabelle. Known for her warmth, wit, and candid commentary, Emmie remained a core part of the program until 2023, when she stepped back following a dementia diagnosis at age 94.
In a statement on Instagram, Isabelle shared the news of her grandmother’s death, writing:
“Our Emmie, waited for me to come home for one last snuggle. Her last words ‘I’m ready to hang up now’.”
Isabelle described Emmie as “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 thanked the public, saying:
“Thank you for loving her as much as we did and will forever. Have a big rest now — you deserve it.”
Expressions of sympathy have poured in from the Gogglebox cast, with co-stars Keith and Lee remarking:
“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.”
The production partners of Gogglebox Australia, Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia acknowledged her passing, telling TV Blackbox;
“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”.
Fellow Gogglebox personality Matty Fahd commented:
“It was an honour to have met her. She was a truly special woman. May she rest in peace.”
Former cast member Angie Kent reflected on Emmie’s legacy:
“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.”
Fans of the program also took to social media to express their condolences, with messages such as “She was so beyond loved,” and “Sending all my love to you all. Rest in peace our beloved Emmie.”
Emmie Silbery’s tenure on Gogglebox Australia helped define the show’s character, offering viewers a unique multigenerational perspective and a sense of authenticity that resonated widely. Her candid observations and light-hearted spirit made her a favourite among audiences, while her story outside of television—as a nurse, mother, and author—added further depth to her public image.
The Silbery family has received an outpouring of support as they mourn the loss of Emmie, with many acknowledging the significant mark she leaves on Australian television. Her contribution to Gogglebox and her enduring presence in the lives of viewers will be long remembered.
Former The Living Room host Barry Du Bois and ABC presenter Virginia Trioli also paid tribute to Emmie’s charm and humour.
Rest In Peace beautiful Lady. Xx
Rip – listening you on the radio !! So sad of this beautiful and funny lady.