As Gogglebox made its much-anticipated return on Friday night, viewers were introduced to several new families. However, the absence of Scottish couple Joe and Roisin sparked a wave of disappointment among fans, who are now calling for their reinstatement.

In July, Joe and Roisin announced their departure from the Channel 4 show, stating, "After three and a half years of sitting on the sofa, Channel 4 have decided it's time for Joe and I to stretch our legs and have not asked us back for season 26. Therefore, we are leaving the Gogglebox family." They expressed gratitude to Studio Lambert for the opportunity, adding, "The experience has actually been so mad, and we will miss watching TV with you all on Friday nights!" They also took pride in representing Scotland, noting, "It's been an honour to represent Scotland as some of the first Scottish people on the show and prove we don't actually need subtitles."

Following their exit, Roisin updated her Instagram bio to reflect her feelings, stating she was "Brutally axed from Gogglebox." This prompted fans to rally for their return, with one user on X suggesting a petition to bring back the couple while calling for the removal of current cast members Sophie and Pete. Another user lamented, "Justice for Roisin and Joe. Gutted they were axed."

Criticism of the new cast has also surfaced, with viewers expressing dissatisfaction. One fan remarked, "Dropping the Scottish couple for these awful couples. What you thinking?" Another added, "The new family are dull. How dare they get rid of the Scottish couple..."

The new additions to Gogglebox include a variety of families and friends from across the UK. Among them are pals Jake (27) and Callum (31) from Glasgow, the Gordon family from Surrey—comprising Andre (49), Sarah (47), and their daughter Chee (25)—married couple Andrew (62) and Alfie (32) from the Cotswolds, mother and daughter-in-law Sara (87) and Lara (58) from Yorkshire, and sisters Rosie (68) and Susie (70) from Edinburgh.

As the show progresses, the fate of Joe and Roisin remains uncertain, but their absence is certainly felt by many loyal viewers.