Gogglebox favourite Chris Butland-Steed quits show after five years for ‘new start’

Gogglebox star Chris Butland-Steed has announced that he’s stepping down from his role on the show after five years.

The fan favourite, who was an original member of the cast when the show launched in 2013, said that he wants a “new start” and is keen to pursue a career in television.

Butland-Steed hinted that his sofa partner and ex-boyfriend Stephen Webb could be joined by his mother Pat on the next series of the Channel 4 show.

“After 10 series, a wedding, and a helluva lot of takeaways, our lovely dogs and I have decided it's time to say a very fond farewell to our Gogglebox family,” he said.

“I've loved every minute of being on the show and will never forget all the amazing things it's allowed me to do. Since my wedding, it's felt like there should be a new start, so I'm taking the plunge to see what's out there!”

Butland-Steed told his followers to “watch this space” as he gears up to show them that he has “many more talents”.

He added: “First and foremost, I’d like to thank the fans, for all their love and support (and selfies!), Studio Lambert and Channel 4 for giving me this wonderful opportunity, and of course, Stephen.

“I wish him and Mummy Pat all the very best on the show, and I look forward to watching them every week. See you again very soon, I hope!”

Gogglebox favourite June Bernicoff recently announced that she wouldn’t be returning to the show following the death of her husband, Leon.

Gogglebox returns to Channel 4 tonight at 9pm.