Gogglebox is Friday night TV viewing at its finest.
The award-winning Channel 4 show became a hit with audiences after it first aired back in March 2013 with it’s simple but interesting premise – inspired by the iconic Mancunian sitcom The Royle Family – that sees different groups of friends and families offer their opinions on the TV shows from the previous week.
And it’s been cracking us up ever since.
It’s a show that has undoubtedly made stars out of all its longstanding cast members, so it’s no wonder that these ‘characters’ have provided us with, not only some of the most hilarious moments in the history of the show, but probably some of the single greatest moments in British TV of all time too.
So, in what is sadly a turbulent time in a year of doom and gloom for Greater Manchester, we couldn’t think of a better opportunity to run through some of the best bits from over the years.
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We could all do with a proper good chuckle right now, couldn’t we?
We’re starting off the list strong here with what is undoubtedly one of Gogglebox’s most quoted comebacks of all time, courtesy of none other than fan-favourite original cast members Chris and Stephen.
It’s hard to call this iconic Jenny and Lee exchange anything other than what it truly is. And what it is, is one of the greatest moments in TV history.
Dave the dog – arguably one of the best Malone family members – has had his fair share of iconic moments over the past seven years, but this might just be his shining moment.
You’re not a knobhead Dave, we love you.
“The dog kicked me”
While we’re on the topic of legendary Gogglebox dog moments, it would be a crime to leave out what is probably the most memorable canine catastrophe of all.
Revered Kate and Graham were never seen without a cuppa in their hands.
No, who are we kidding, if he didn’t hoover Grandma we’ve wouldn’t have been treated to this gem from the current series that’s already going down as one of the show’s best belly-laugh moments.
Un-planned moments of gold like this are what really makes the show.
It’s the collective moment when they all realise what it is that she’s really just said that makes this classic Michael family scene one we’ll never tire of watching.
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“I told you not to touch it”
Just iconic.
“OH MY GOD”
Amy Tapper came to be known for her screaming and shouting over the 11 series she appeared on.
But this particular raised voice moment scared the absolute life out of her Dad and for that reason, it will always be one of her most memorable.
We could quite honestly make up an entire list featuring iconic moments of the late and great Leon and June Bernicoff, but it’s the innocence of this clip that just sums up why they will always have a special place in the hearts of the nation.
Probably Scarlett’s harshest put down of them all, but she’s not wrong.
… and finally
We couldn’t possibly let a list of Gogglebox best bits go by without including national treasures and everyone’s favourite Welsh nans Mary and Marina, so here is a collection of some of their finest moments over the past few years to end on.
The fact they don’t know just how funny they are is precisely what makes them so funny.
With all the cracking characters that’ve graced our television screens over the years, we just know there’s some real gems that we’ve missed off here, so what other iconic Gogglebox moments would you add to the list?
Let us know.
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Wigan Warriors make history with first-ever Women’s Challenge Cup win
Danny Jones
Wigan Warriors have done it: they’ve officially lifted the 2025 Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup for the first time in their history following an emphatic victory over serial champions, St Helens.
The Greater Manchester club managed not only to finally win the tournament but also to put a stop to St Helens’ hugely successful streak and what would have been five consecutive wins.
Spurred on by some smart tactics from club legend and boss, Dennis Betts – who won the competition seven times with Wigan as a player himself – the Warriors put in an imperious performance, leading by 18 at half time. Now that’s how you start a match.
Here’s the moment they finally got their hands on it:
Not only was the first-ever Challenge Cup win for Wigan Warriors Women, but it also ended a fairly significant silverware drought that has felt even longer for the supporters.
The last time a female Wigan Warriors squad won a major trophy was in the Super League back in 2018, when they also managed to win a maiden Grand Final against Leeds Rhinos by just 18-16.
Cut to this weekend, and the team fielded was much more impressive, not just when it comes to taking an early lead but by stretching and consolidating it to continue controlling the game.
In fact, Wigan were up by 24 before the opposition coaching duo Derek Hardman and Craig Richards’ side even got points on the board.
Full-back Grace Banks pipped her teammates to the Player of the Match award, but there were star showings all over the pitch, including a prolific Isabel Rowe and a wonderful run from Eva Hunter.
— Wigan Warriors 🍒⚪️ (@WiganWarriorsRL) June 7, 2025
Truth be told, it was a bit of a thrashing and one of their best scorelines of the season – kind of them to save it for an epic conclusion at Wembley Stadium.
As for Salford-born Betts, who was once a prospect at Manchester United, playing with the B team alongside the likes of Mark Robins and Clayton Blackmore, this was his first trophy in charge of the women’s team in what has already been a remarkable career.
What a success story his sporting switch turned out to be
Congratulations to a local club with a very bright future ahead.
Featured Images — BBC Sport/Wigan Warriors (screenshots via X/IG)
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Co-creator of Manchester-Blackpool bike ride hoping to reunite with fellow founders for special anniversary
Danny Jones
One of the co-creators of the much-loved Manchester to Blackpool charity bike ride is looking to reunite with some of his fellow founding members for a very special anniversary of the heartwarming event.
Way back when, Tony O’Dwyer was one of just six original riders who embarked on the bike ride from Manchester – Media City in Salford Quays, more precisely – to the Blackpool seafront, which has gone on to become a beloved and regularly frequented fundraiser.
Fast forward four decades later and not only is the annual cycling event approaching its 40th anniversary, but O’Dwyer himself is looking to take it on yet again, just four days before his 70th birthday.
Oh yeah, it’s worth mentioning he’s done it every year since the beginning – including solo during the pandemic. Simply incredible.
Go on, Tony, lad! (Credit: The Christie Charity)
To make things even more memorable, the Wigan-born bike-riding legend is calling on his fellow Manchester-Blackpool bike ride founders to join him in a momentous reunion that is both a personal celebration and one that champions the famous fundraising endurance challenge.
It may have started out as little more than half a dozen blokes setting off from Albert Square in Manchester city centre on a pretty ambitious voyage, but it’s gone on to become a North West tradition and a powerful way to support vital causes, not least of all charities like The Christie Foundation.
This year, Tony will be riding once again to raise funds for The Christie in honour of his late father, Franco O’Dwyer, who was cared for by the specialist hospital and research centre after being diagnosed with stomach cancer.
Franco sadly died 10 years ago, and Tony has been a passionate supporter of the organisation ever since, taking various fundraising challenges even beyond his usual Manchester to Blackpool bike ride.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary edition, Tony said: “I can’t believe it’s been 40 years since we first did it. Back in 1985, it was just a group of mates, a few bikes, and the road to Blackpool – we didn’t have the gear, just grit and a bit of madness!
Credit: Supplied
“We passed through Leigh, Standish, Preston, and St Annes, stopping at pubs and windmills along the way, just enjoying the journey. I’d love to reconnect with the original group – Mike, Barry, Susan, John, Margaret and Christine – it would be brilliant to see where life has taken them.”
“The first time I did the bike ride, I was in fancy dress as a lion, and I’ve done it every year since. I even did it during COVID on my own when the event was postponed, and there were others on the way doing it themselves too, which was amazing to see!”
Crediting The Christie with prolonging his father’s life and giving his family that extra precious time, he’s now proud to fly the flag for the foundation, and they have just as much love for him.
Mass participation events officer Josh Hughff added: “Tony is an incredible ambassador for the Charity and for this event. His dedication over four decades is inspiring, and we’re honoured he continues to ride in support of The Christie Charity.
“His story is a reminder of the lasting power of community, memory, and giving back.”
For anyone who’d like to join Tony and be part of ‘Team Christie’ 2025 as they head towards the seaside town’s South Promenade, you can sign up HERE.
As for those pioneers who first took on the challenge all those years ago, if you were part of that original group or know someone who was, please contact Maggie Doyle at The Christie Charity on 07717 532195.
Fingers crossed we can get the gang back together.
Emily Sergeant -
22nd October 2020 
