Gogglebox favourite Raza Siddiqui has been missing from the programme after he "cracked some ribs" following a horrific tumble. The beloved cast member turned to Instagram on Tuesday, February 17th, to explain his absence from the sofa, where he usually watches popular television programmes and movies alongside his father, Sid Siddiqui, and brothers, Umar Siddiqui and Bassit Siddiqui, in the latest series.

Images of Raza - who has appeared on the Channel 4 programme since its launch in 2013 - in hospital as well as convalescing at home were shared on the Derby family's Instagram page. The message stated: "For you eagle eyed Goggleboxers, you may have noticed that Raza (@razathefaint) hasn't joined us on the sofa so far this season. Sadly he had a bit of a fall, a few weeks back and cracked some ribs. (sic)". The Siddiqui household then indicated their expectation that Raza will return to the programme "in a few weeks time" as he is "recovering nicely".

The message went on: "He's absolutely smashing his recovery, staying positive and keeping himself entertained with walks, telly, reading and nephew cuddles with Theodore.

"I know you guys reaching out and sending your well wishes will put a bigger smile on his face than morphine ever could. Can't wait for all four Siddiquis to be back on team @c4gogglebox with the rest of the fab families. (sic)".

Gogglebox supporters flooded the post's comments area to express their hopes for Raza's swift recovery. One viewer commented: "Bless you get well soon, we look forward to having you back on our screens when you are well enough. (sic)".

Another fan added: "Hope you are soon better and back on the sofa Raza, but take care of yourself. (sic)".

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Whilst a third admirer posted: "Oh no get better real soon, look forward to you being back on the gogglebox sofa with your brother and dad. (sic)".

The Siddiquis subsequently expressed their gratitude for the supportive messages in the post's comments section.

They responded: "Thank you for all the love guys! ! Means a lot! ! Xx (sic)".

Beyond Gogglebox, Baasit is wed to his wife Melissa, with whom he shares two youngsters, daughter Amelia and son Theodore.

It's understood that Umar and Raza remain unmarried, whilst their father Sid - a retired engineer who relocated to Britain from Pakistan at 16 - is married to his wife, Nasreen.

Sid and Nasreen share two daughters, though they've never featured on Gogglebox.