The Siddiqui family from Gogglebox have been flooded with support from fans after announcing the death of their beloved pet cat.
The familiar faces – Sid, Raza, Baasit, and Umar – have been part of the Channel 4 hit since the first series in 2013, winning over viewers with their sharp and funny observations on the week’s TV.
Taking to Instagram for a sad update on Tuesday, they revealed the sad loss of their beloved pet cat, Rufus, with Baasit and Melissa Siddiqui penning a heartfelt statement: “Goodnight our beautiful boy Rufus. 15 and a half years wasn’t long enough, you were and always will be a big part of our lives.
“The most chilled, cuddly and beautiful boy who made us a family right back at the beginning. Lots of memories that we will never forget and we are truly grateful to have known and loved you. Sleep tight our handsome Boy.”
The condolences poured in from their followers as the reality TV stars shared their sad news on social media. “Sorry for your loss, they leave such a hole in your heart and home,” one Instagram user told the grieving family in the comments. Another added: “So sorry for your loss.”
A third penned: “Sending love to you all. Losing a pet is real and true loss and grief. Take time and be there for each other.” The Siddiqui family responded to the outpouring of love from their fans and added in the comment section: “Thank you for all the other lovely messages, comments, DMS etc.”
In happier times for the family, The Siddiquis recently celebrated a milestone birthday. On their shared Instagram account, brothers Baasit, Raza, and Umar posted a loving homage to celebrate their dad Sid’s 80th birthday. They shared a collection of photos and videos from Sid’s festive celebration, with the caption: “Happy 80th Birthday to the main man himself. Lots of fun getting together with the family for a birthday lunch to celebrate.
“1) A video to show exactly why we love Dad so much…he sent this to the family group chat this morning. 2) Why Amelia’s message is his favourite”, the Express detailed. The post continued: “A home made birthday cake by the best baker we know (brother in law – Simon) it went down a treat! ! All hands on deck to add the candles….we opted for 8 instead of 80.
“Happy Birthday sang multiple times as we always start too early. Kiddies enjoying one of Grandad’s birthday gifts….a vibration plate (it’s what he asked for). Some throw backs of Mr Siddiqui, looking very Dapper! ” Concluding their endearing note, they said: “Happy Birthday Dad, you really are one of a kind and loved by everyone. Love all The Siddiqui Gang xxx”.
Fans were quick to swarm the comments with birthday messages for the reality star, but were left picking their jaws up off the floor when they found out Sid has just celebrated his 80th. One supporter wrote, “Happy Birthday to the Boss! ! ! All the best to you. 80? ? No way.” Another simply couldn’t believe it: “80! ! ! ! Wow, you look amazing and definitely not 80 Happy birthday.”
Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.
Celeb obsessed? Get a daily dose of showbiz gossip direct to your inbox