Gogglebox's Malone family explain why they were not in first episode

Fans of Gogglebox favourites the Malone family will have noted their absence as the show returned to our screens on Friday night.

Channel 4 confirmed the show would go ahead despite the death of Queen Elizabeth the day before. Some viewers were concerned as fan favourites were missing. But the Malones addressed fans questions as they posted a video from Disney World in Florida, posing outside Epcot.

Dad Tom senior told followers on Instagram: "Here we are, on holiday. Jesus Christ it doesn't feel like one with all this lot, I can tell you that. We're in Florida so we're not there for the first couple of shows are we? Starting Friday. We're here obviously - as you can tell behind us it's the Menai Bridge.

"We're in Anglesey. It's a bit of a drive back but we'll do out best." Mum Julie then laughed in response to her husband: "I thought it was Blackpool Tower."

Tom said: "I stand corrected, Blackpool Tower. See you in a couple of weeks. Enjoy the show, it starts without us but we'll be back soon." Sam asked: "Where are The Malones? Hope they haven’t left the show."

@Haifischfrau added: "Finally Dave and Shirley. About damn time! But I'm still missing the Malones. #Gogglebox." Ben Church asked: "What's happened to the Malones #Gogglebox."

Gogglebox airs at 9pm on Channel 4.

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