Gogglebox star Tom Malone is quitting the Channel 4 show to pursue new opportunities.

Tom joined the cast of the Channel 4 hit alongside his family, the Malones, way back in season four.

Famous for their pile of cakes or the antics of their dogs, the family have become a firm favourite among viewers since joining the show.

But just as the new series of Gogglebox is due to start tonight, the 26-year-old has revealed he is quitting the show.

Tom posted the news to his 260,000 Instagram followers on the eve of the 17th season with a sign that read, “back on the market. Get at me for TV work”.

In the caption of his post he wrote: "So after 6 and a half years it's finally time to put down the remote, and to say goodbye to Gogglebox.

"I've loved every minute and I'm eternally grateful to @channel4 and @studiolambert for allowing me to be a part of the show. But new opportunities are knocking on the door and it's time to explore them."

"I look forward to enjoying the show as a viewer and not having to worry about having said something stupid.

"PS. Don't worry my family @themalonesgb and @shaunmalone95 will still be on the show to keep you guys entertained every Friday."

He added: “To the future.”

The news will come as a blow to fans of the Manchester quartet with Tom becoming a firm favourite alongside his dad, Tom, his mum Julie and brother Shaun.

Tom, a professional dancer, has amassed 700,000 followers on TikTok with his dance moves earning 9.6 million likes, so he is unlikely to be short of offers.