'Gogglebox' hit by complaints over Michael family's coronavirus comments

Gogglebox has been hit by complaints after one of its families made comments about the coronavirus that some viewers thought were “selfish”.

The Channel 4 show returned on 11 September and saw the Michael family talking about the pandemic and the current rules after tuning into the news.

During their chat, son Louis complained about young people being blamed for the rise in cases of the virus and suggested that the “small group” most at risk of dying should self-isolate at home.

“Also it should be their choice because if they’re aware of the risks and they are aware of the statistics then it should be their choice whether they isolate or not,” added his sister Alex.

“But to make everyone else put their lives on hold, it’s ridiculous.”

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The comments angered some viewers, who posted messages on social media saying the family’s views were “selfish”.

“Seriously not impressed with the views of the Michael family on #Gogglebox - typically so selfish of that generation,” said one person on Twitter.

Another posted: “I am so fed up with this attitude selfish a******* keep spouting that only vulnerable people should be impacted by COVID restrictions.

“It’s ableist, self-centred and lacking in empathy.”

“So b***** selfish and ignorant,” said another viewer. “I'll just give up working and hide in a box. Happy now?”

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Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom has confirmed that it has received 19 complaints about the episode, and that 11 of those related to coronavirus comments.

Louis and Alex appear on the Channel 4 programme alongside their parents Andrew and Carolyne.

The family started appearing on the show in 2013.

Yahoo has contacted Channel 4 for comment.