The Siddiqui Family's Turbulent Year Away from Gogglebox
The Siddiqui family, one of the original stars of Channel 4's Gogglebox since its 2013 debut, has experienced a profoundly emotional 12 months off-screen. Based in Derby, the clan—consisting of Baasit, Umar, Raza, and their father Sid, with mother Nasreen not appearing on the show—quickly became fan favourites, but recent events have tested their resilience.
A Heartbreaking Loss for the Family
In September 2025, the Siddiquis shared a poignant Instagram post announcing the death of their beloved cat, Poppy, who was nearly 14 years old. The family described Poppy as a "little Diva" and expressed their grief, hoping she was reunited with her brother Rufus. The emotional caption, which noted that "pets leave paw prints on our hearts," garnered an outpouring of sympathy from supporters, highlighting the deep bond they share with their audience.
Celebrations Amidst the Challenges
Despite the sadness, October 2025 brought a joyous milestone as Baasit and his wife Mel celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary. Baasit posted a heartfelt message on the family's official Instagram account, expressing eternal love and gratitude. The couple, parents to daughter Amelia and son Theodore, have been together for over 16 years, showcasing their enduring relationship to fans.
Raza's Hospitalisation and Recovery
More recently, in February 2026, the family revealed that Raza had been hospitalised after a fall that cracked his ribs, causing him to miss episodes of Gogglebox. Instagram posts showed him hooked up to breathing machines, but the family assured fans he is recovering well, enjoying walks, television, reading, and cuddles with his nephew Theodore. They expressed optimism for his return to the show, thanking followers for their well-wishes.
Sid's 81st Birthday Festivities
Last month, the Siddiquis celebrated father Sid's 81st birthday with a series of nostalgic family photos on Instagram. The post was flooded with affectionate comments, including from daughter-in-law Mel and supportive fans, wishing him a year filled with joy and love. This celebration served as a bright spot in their otherwise tumultuous year.
The Siddiqui family's journey over the past 12 months underscores the highs and lows of life beyond television, from personal tragedies to cherished milestones, all while maintaining their connection with Gogglebox viewers.
