It’s the update no Gogglebox fan ever wanted to hear. Beloved TV star Lee Riley has finally spoken from the heart about his long-time best friend and co-star, Jenny Newby, revealing she’s been privately fighting a serious health battle — one she’s faced with quiet strength and unshakable grace. 
The Silence That Spoke Louder Than Words
For months, loyal fans felt something missing from their Friday nights — the laughter, the warmth, the teasing friendship between Jenny and Lee. When Jenny stopped appearing regularly on Gogglebox, whispers began: was she just taking a break, or was something more worrying behind the scenes?
Now, Lee has broken the silence — and his words have left the nation heartbroken.
“She’s not been well for a while,” he confessed softly. “It’s been hard… really hard. But she’s a fighter. She’s always been a fighter.”
“Every Day’s a Battle, But She Keeps Smiling”
Close friends reveal that Jenny has been receiving treatment after a series of health setbacks, including an operation that forced her to step away from filming. Through it all, Lee has remained her constant companion — moving temporarily into her caravan so she would never face recovery alone.
“I didn’t want her to be by herself,” Lee said. “We’ve shared everything — laughter, tears, hospitals, you name it.”
Despite the struggle, Jenny’s spirit remains unbroken. In a short but emotional message to fans, she shared:
doing my best to get better. It’s not easy, but knowing everyone’s thinking of me means the world.”
A Friendship That Defines Gogglebox
Their story began more than 20 years ago in a Hull pub — Jenny behind the bar, Lee as a cheeky regular. From lighthearted banter grew a friendship that captured the hearts of millions.
“We’re not a couple,” Lee once joked. “We’re just best friends — but honestly, we’re like family.”
Now, that bond is stronger than ever. “It’s not about the show,” Lee said. “It’s about being there for each other — no matter what.”
A Nation Prays
As news of Jenny’s health battle spreads, Gogglebox fans are flooding social media with messages of love and support.
“Jenny’s laugh got me through lockdown — sending her every bit of strength,” one viewer wrote.
“Friday nights just aren’t the same without her,” said another. “Please get well soon, Jenny — we miss you.”
Lee says Jenny has read every message she can, often smiling through tears. “She feels the love,” he said. “Trust me, she really does.”
Hope Never Fades
Despite the hardships, Lee remains full of hope. “She’s got that Yorkshire grit,” he smiled. “She’ll be back when she’s ready. Jenny’s got too much life in her to sit still for long.”
For now, Jenny continues to rest surrounded by her loved ones — her dear friend Lee, her family, and a nation of fans who refuse to stop believing.
Because Gogglebox without Jenny and Lee… just wouldn’t be the same.
