Culture

Why isn’t Chris Butland-Steed on Gogglebox anymore?

Sep 14 2018
Written by PinkNews Staff Writer

Stephen and Chris on Gogglebox (Channel 4)

Gogglebox enthusiasts, are you wondering why one half of everyone’s favourite gay Goggleboxers isn’t on the show anymore?

Chris Butland-Steed announced in February 2018 he is quitting the Channel 4 reality show, leaving Stephen Webb to go it alone in reviewing the best TV on the box.

Replacing Butland-Steed is Webb’s mother, Pat, who joins her son on the sofa.

Why did Chris leave Gogglebox?

Butland-Steed wed his boyfriend of three years in a “magical” diva-themed wedding in Brighton in 2017, and now says he is ready to move on from the show.

Gogglebox stars Chris Butland-Steed and Stephen Webb (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 Butland-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!”

Who is replacing Chris on Gogglebox?

Since Butland-Steed left the show, Stephen Webb has been joined on the show by mum, Pat.

Stephen and Pat on Gogglebox (Channel 4)

Pat has featured on the show before prior to joining the cast full time for Season 11.

When Butland-Steed left, he wrote on Twitter: “I wish Stephen and Mummy Pat all the very best n the show, and I look forward to watching them every week. See you again very soon I hope!”

Who did Chris marry?

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)

Speaking of the wedding he said: “I was a blubbering mess.”

Gogglebox 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.

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.”