If you’ve ever found yourself wondering if Gogglebox stars really get paid to watch television, you’re not alone. The 23rd series of the beloved show is currently captivating audiences, with its familiar families offering witty commentary on a range of TV programs, from the popular to the downright peculiar.
Familiar faces like sisters Ellie and Izzi Warner, spouses David and Shirley Griffiths, and best pals Jenny Newby and Lee Riley keep viewers entertained, sharing laughs and even tears with their candid opinions.
But what exactly motivates them, beyond the joy of participating in this iconic Channel 4 program? Well, as it turns out, they do receive financial compensation for their time in front of the camera.
Louise Thompson recently disclosed that she initially received a mere £25 per day for her role in Made In Chelsea (which eventually increased to £200). So, how does this compare to the earnings of Gogglebox stars?
There have been rumors floating around, particularly in earlier series, suggesting that the stars of Gogglebox were compensated with takeaways, as they were often seen indulging in delivered food during filming. But let’s separate fact from fiction.
Each Gogglebox family reportedly receives £1,500 every month, according to The Sun. Not too shabby for simply watching TV, right? This sum can then be divided among the members of each family. For instance, siblings Pete and Sophie Sandiford might receive more individually than the Siddiqui family, which consists of Sid, Umar, Bassit, and Raza. Of course, this assumes an equal distribution among family members, without favoritism toward the funniest commentator.
But wait, there’s more! In addition to their monthly pay, the stars also receive two free takeaways of their choice to keep them fueled during those lengthy filming sessions. One can only imagine the delicious spread they enjoy during breaks.
According to Richard Osman’s podcast The Rest Is… Entertainment, the amount each person is paid varies depending on their tenure on the show. Co-host Marina Hyde noted that while the sums may not be astronomical, they’re certainly not insignificant either.
Now, onto the burning question: how much TV do these stars actually watch? Well, it’s no small commitment. Each family is required to watch 12 hours of television per week for the show. This viewing time is split into two six-hour shifts, allowing most participants to balance their day jobs with filming commitments.
As for aspiring couch critics wondering how to join the Gogglebox cast, there’s unfortunately no formal application process. The production team typically scouts for new talent by traversing the country in search of personalities that fit the bill. Jenny Newby, a fan favorite who appears alongside her best friend Lee Riley, was discovered by a talent agent while attending Beverley Ladies’ Day. She then convinced Lee to join her on the show, as her husband was reluctant to appear on TV.
Stephen Lambert, the show’s creator, emphasized in 2015 that everyone on Gogglebox is discovered and persuaded to participate, which contributes to the show’s genuine charm and relatability.
While Gogglebox might not have open auditions, there are plenty of other Channel 4 shows where aspiring TV stars can apply to showcase their personalities and talents.
