Gogglebox Star’s Fiji Nightmare: Airlifted with Spinal Injury!

A popular star on Gogglebox Australia has had to be taken to the hospital urgently due to a spinal injury sustained during a particularly harrowing holiday experience.

Isabelle Silbery, having just departed from a reality show, spent some tranquil days on the isolated Turtle Island in Fiji. However, misfortune came upon her during this peaceful interval.

38-year-old woman’s beach getaway ended prematurely after she sustained a spinal fracture from a horseback riding mishap.

She flew by helicopter, a trip lasting about 30 minutes, accompanied by her husband Alex Richards, to receive immediate medical care on the mainland.

It appears that finding oneself stranded on a secluded island following a horseback riding mishap, while enduring intense discomfort and uncertain about the gravity of the situation, can be quite terrifying, as Silbery expressed on Instagram following the unfortunate event.

She mentioned that a rescue helicopter for medical emergencies could only operate during daylight, thus she was transported by the locals of Fiji on a stretcher for about 2 kilometers uphill in the dark. Afterward, they carried her onto a boat and brought her to her hut at night.

‘They were all barefoot in the scorching heat, holding my hand and reassuring me I would be okay.

They had a doctor on standby and gave me plenty of pain medication to help me get through the night. They also stayed nearby on the beachfront outside the hut, ready to assist if needed.

“These individuals were truly selfless. And let’s not forget my spouse, who assisted me in urinating into a container – the level of dedication that goes beyond what we typically promise each other in our wedding vows.

She further emphasized the gravity of the predicament, stating, “A helicopter transported me to the mainland for scans, which revealed I had broken my spine.

‘One inch in either direction and my life could’ve looked very different today’.

Since the incident that happened a week ago, Isabelle has gone back to Melbourne for relaxation and recuperation.

I made it home safely but found myself with a hefty bill, so I wanted to remind everyone to thoroughly examine their travel insurance policies. Mine turned out not to cover many activities you might engage in during a vacation, such as kayaking, snorkeling, bicycling, and horseback riding.

Following the announcement, it’s been revealed that Gogglebox Australia, a long-running favorite, has been canceled by Foxtel after an impressive run of 19 seasons.

Since its debut in 2015, the popular Australian reality show, which features everyday people sharing their opinions about the previous week’s TV programs, has been a fan favorite. This series was originally based on a British format.

The highly acclaimed show, boasting multiple Logies, was jointly produced by Foxtel’s Lifestyle Channel and Network Ten. It initially aired on Foxtel, followed by a free-to-air broadcast the next day.

However, exclusive information from various sources indicates that Foxtel no longer airs the well-liked program, while Network Ten continues to broadcast it, though in a revamped version.

According to the source, the partnership for the production of the show has been an uncommon one, experiencing some turbulent periods.

For quite some time now, I’ve been an ardent fan of the show “Gogglebox.” Interestingly, it seems that over the years, two networks have been vying for control over its incredible success. On separate occasions, these networks attempted to acquire the show from each other, in a bid to claim ownership and continue the legacy of this beloved program.

The source mentioned that Channel Ten decided to keep the series, but it’s going to have a noticeably new feel for Gogglebox Australia viewers who are accustomed to it.

‘There is good news and bad news for fans of the show,’ the source said.

Network Ten has come to our rescue, ensuring the series will make a comeback in 2025. However, there’s some unfortunate news: the show will undergo a revival with significant changes to the main cast.

The source indicated that starting from 2025, the show will undergo a simplification, allowing Channel 10 to share some of the production expenses with others.

Gogglebox will be rebooted with a lick of paint on it I imagine,’ the insider said.

Essentially, Foxtel and Network Ten found themselves unable to cover the expenses of the show anymore due to its high cost.

At Network Ten, it’s necessary to make reductions throughout the show, and additional families have been advised that their storylines won’t continue in the upcoming episodes.

As a devoted admirer, I can hardly contain my excitement as I share this heartfelt update: the enchanting Isabelle Silbery herself took to Instagram last November, disclosing some bittersweet news. In 2025, the beloved trio – Isabelle, her cherished mum Kerry, and their precious eleven-month-old Ruby – will not be gracing our screens on the show anymore. Ah, the pang of missing them already!

In 2016, Isabelle and Kerry entered the show, accompanied by Kerry’s mom, Emily. However, Emily decided to step down from her role in 2023 following a diagnosis of dementia.

Isabelle shared a photo that showed her, Kerry, and Emily taking their usual place on the couch. 

Isabelle wrote, expressing deep regret, ‘We will not be coming back to Gogglebox in 2025, me, Mum, and Ruby.’

‘Our cherished series won’t be continuing with Foxtel as they’ve opted against renewal. However, it’s still going to air on Channel 10, but unfortunately, the three of us aren’t part of its revamped version.’

Further along, Isabelle expressed her appreciation for the chance to highlight female perspectives on Australian television.

Approximately nine years ago, she found a chance to highlight the authentic voices of women from different generations, she stated.

‘Baby Ruby filling in for Emmie in recent seasons made it feel full circle.

It’s truly delightful to have shared living spaces with each of you, and I can’t express enough gratitude for the affection and encouragement you’ve shown.

‘It might be the end of an era but it’s also an opportunity for new exciting beginnings’.

The post drew numerous comments from friends, enthusiasts, and admirers, among them being well-known broadcaster Lisa Wilkinson.

‘Oh no @isabellesilbery!! I’m so sorry to hear that,’ Lisa wrote.

For many years, it’s been your entertaining and genuine reactions on Gogglebox that has made me fall in love with the show. TV, indeed! Sending warm wishes to each of you…and here’s to a future filled with even more fantastic moments and experiences!

Previously known Gogglebox personality, Angie Kent, added her thoughts as well, acknowledging that the Silverby family’s impact on the series was beyond quantification.

Indeed, they are missing out, as the three of you have truly shone, making it hard for me to imagine filling your roles,” she wrote.

I believe they’ve made a significant mistake in this situation. However, considering that we, along with many passionate TV viewers, might not always be the ones making these decisions, right?

I feel they’ve messed up here significantly. Yet, who are we, the millions of dedicated TV viewers, to second-guess them, huh?

A Foxtel Group spokesperson also confirmed the news to TV Blackbox. 

As a devout admirer, I’d like to share an intriguing concept: a television program that revolves around the act of viewing TV itself. Initially, many were skeptical about its potential, but Foxtel took a chance on it.

Beginning in 2015, we’ve been bringing Gogglebox Australia into your living rooms, offering a reflection not just of Australian TV, but also our culture, humor, and entertainment. Together with the Gogglebox families, we’ve shared laughter, tears, and countless unforgettable moments.

In the meantime, a representative for Network Ten informed Daily Mail Australia that next year is where you’ll find Australia’s beloved armchair critics.

Go ahead and grab some popcorn, settle into your favorite spot on the couch. In 2025, Gogglebox Australia will be airing only on channels 10 and 10 Play.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the remarkable Silbery family. Over almost a decade, they have graced our show with their exceptional contributions and made an indelible impact on our audience. Their support has been invaluable and I am truly thankful for their unwavering dedication.

In simpler terms, the representative stated that the various life experiences, personalities, compassion, humor, and viewpoints of the three generations of women in the Silbery family were always evident when they gathered to watch TV as a group.

The Silbery family won’t join us again during the upcoming season, but we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their exceptional impact on our program throughout the last nine years.

Daily Mail Australia also reached out to Foxtel for comment at the time. 

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2025-01-26 11:07

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