Denise Van Outen has revealed the behind-the-scenes truth about filming Celebrity Gogglebox, including that cast members go into each episode completely unaware of what they will be watching.
Natural Reactions Guaranteed
Speaking to the Daily Express on behalf of Sky Vegas, the TV presenter confirmed: "No. When the crew arrive, we don't know what we're going to see, which is why I think they get natural reactions." She added: "You spend a whole day watching the news, game shows, movies and all sorts. It's fun. It's basically a day spent binge-watching TV and all the great TV that's been on."
Longtime Fan of the Show
Denise, who first appeared on the show in 2019 alongside her ex-fiancé Eddie Boxshall, and later with Blue star Duncan James in 2022, returned for the 2026 series alongside her former Big Breakfast co-host Johnny Vaughan, ending a multi-decade feud. She said: "Yes, I'd always watched it. I remember when it first came out, and I thought it was such an unusual concept for a show." She explained the appeal: "I think what people like with Gogglebox is that you get to see people in their own environment. TV has changed over the years, and because of smartphones, people are used to having an insight into people's lives."
The Celebrity Gogglebox Experience
Denise noted: "I think that's why it took off so much, because people like to see, especially on the celebrity version, you in your natural home and your natural environment. I'm sure half of it is so people can have a look at your house and see where you live." She also highlighted the show's impact on viewing habits: "The great thing about Gogglebox is that because you watch all these different shows, quite often it inspires people to watch some of the things they've seen on the show. In terms of television, it's a real celebratory show for TV in general."
Cast for 2026 Series
Returning favourites include Rylan Clark and mum Linda, Martin and Roman Kemp, Bez and Shaun Ryder, Paddy McGuinness and Vernon Kay, Ashley Banjo and Perri Kiely, Vicky Pattison and Pete Wicks, Mo Gilligan and Babatunde Aleshe, Stephen Mangan and sister Anita, and Nick Grimshaw and niece Liv. Newcomers are Gladiators stars Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Nitro) and Matt Morsia (Legend), Strictly professionals Amy Dowden and Carlos Gum, YouTubers George Clarke and Max Balegde, Comedian Julian Clary and actor Nigel Havers, and TV personality Olivia Attwood and her mum Jennifer.
