Gogglebox star Chris Butland-Steed quits the show after 10 series
Chris Butland-Steed is leaving Gogglebox following a five year stint on the popular Channel 4 show.
Butland-Steed wed his boyfriend of three years in a “magical” diva-themed wedding in Brighton last year, and now says he is ready to move on from the show.
His TV partner Stephen Webb will remain on the show with his mother, Pat, who made a guest appearance last year.
Gogglebox stars (Chris Jepson)
The professional hairdresser confirmed the news on Twitter.
He wrote: “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.
“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!
Chris Steed (right) prior to his hair transplants, with Gogglebox co-star and ex-boyfriend Stephen Webb
“I’m really looking forward to what the future holds, especially pursuing a career in TV, as I hope to show viewers that I have many more talents. So, watch this space!”
The TV star, from Hove, Sussex, tied the knot with Tony Butland at Brighton’s famous The Grand Hotel in 2017.
“There was so much love in the room – everything went perfectly and I am the happiest man alive,” Steed said.
Chris and new husband Tony (Nick Ford Photography)
Related: Heartbreaking moment Gogglebox couple shed tears over same-sex marriage law (WATCH)
Speaking of the wedding he said: “I was a blubbering mess.”
Goggle box co-star Webb is also his former boyfriend.
“Stephen and I are still incredibly good friends and he summed it all up for me when he said that the whole day was magical. He was an usher and also did an amazing reading which made me cry,” Steed said at the time.
The day coincided with London Pride, which Steed said was “wonderful.”
Chris and new husband Tony (Nick Ford Photography)
“We were so grateful to all the heroes who have fought so hard for gay rights over the years – enabling us to marry and enjoy such a special wedding.”
The wedding was diva-themed, with tables named after gay icons such as Liza Minnelli, Bette Midler and Julie Andrews. The couple sat at the Barbara Streisand table.
Their first dance was to the Barbra Streisand and Bryan Adams duet I Finally Found Someone.
47-year-old landscape gardener Tony Butland proposed atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Chris and new husband Tony (Nick Ford Photography)
“We are very lucky – we are best friends and we both feel we have married our dream man,” Butland said.
Steed wore an aqua marine Dolce and Gabbana silk suit with a ivory bow tie while Butland opted for a ivory suit with floral decorations with a deep-red shirt and bow tie.
Steed announced the news of his engagement in October 2015 when he shared a picture of his ring, telling his followers: “It’s official… I can’t sing Beyoncé anymore.”
