Gogglebox stars Andrew Nicolls and Alfie Mulhall had viewers reaching for tissues during Channel 4’s New Year’s Day special

Andrew and Alfie

Gogglebox’s Andrew wipes tears away from his eyes as Alfie share sweet gesture (Image: Channel 4)

Gogglebox favourite Andrew Nicolls was moved to tears after his husband surprised him with a heartwarming gesture during the latest instalment of the Channel 4 programme. The beloved sofa critics returned on New Year’s Day to deliver their trademark witty and passionate commentary on the festive period’s most talked-about television offerings.

During the Christmas special, Alfie Mulhall recreated a memorable moment from the beloved holiday film Love Actually. He presented a series of handwritten cards bearing touching messages for his spouse, Andrew, which read: “And people think you’re my father,” and “Happy Christmas, I Love You.”

When Andrew questioned, “What are you doing?” Alfie directed him to take a seat, reports the Mirror. As Alfie revealed his heartfelt notes, Andrew became visibly moved, declaring, “Oh, my god, I really love Love Actually,” whilst dabbing at his eyes.

Alfie and Andrew sit on the sofa in Gogglebox

Gogglebox star Alfie shared a sweet message towards his husband, Andrew (Image: Channel 4)

Alfie, who is three decades younger than Andrew, responded with “Merry Christmas” before the duo burst into laughter. The Cotswolds-based pair are among several new families who have joined the Channel 4 series.

Though relatively new to the show, Andrew and Alfie have already won over audiences with their astute commentary and playful exchanges. Beyond their Gogglebox appearances, the couple regularly share glimpses of their daily lives on Instagram, posting snaps from getaways, personal milestones, their pets, and family updates.

On Sunday (December 21), Andrew turned to Instagram to express his joy after discovering love with Alfie at the age of 60. Throughout a collection of heartwarming photographs, the pair can be spotted relishing each other’s presence during numerous memorable occasions.

Gogglebox star Andrew holds his hands over his eyes as he gets emotional

Gogglebox star Andrew was in tears over his partner’s sweet gesture (Image: Channel 4)

In one image, Andrew and Alfie are pictured standing together against the urban horizon, radiating pure delight. In another snap, Andrew plants an affectionate kiss on his spouse’s cheek whilst they enjoy time by the seaside. Andrew penned in the caption: “I was 60 when I thought my love story was over…Then THIS happened (love heart).”

The duo received an overwhelming wave of encouragement, with one individual commenting: “Love always wins, my friend, and it sometimes is just around the corner – so happy for you both”. Another remarked: “Two beautiful men, one beautiful couple!”, whilst a third added: “I’ve got a big age gap with my boyfriend, so seeing you guys represent it on TV is so lovely!”

“How flippin’ lovely is this, gorgeous couple and my favourite goggleboxers, have a fabulous Christmas xx”, enthused one supporter as another declared: “Love you two, my favs on gogglebox”. Andrew and Alfie married in May 2024. They said their vows at a stunning destination ceremony in Italy, surrounded by family and friends.

Andrew and Alfie pose together

Andrew has paid a sweet tribute to Alfie on Instagram 

Clearly smitten, Andrew and Alfie recently marked their first wedding anniversary, with Alfie paying tribute to his husband through a heartfelt Instagram post. Sharing photographs of the couple throughout the years, he penned: “A year full of laughter and love. Happy Anniversary, darling.”

Meanwhile, on Gogglebox, the duo also offered a glimpse into their relationship whilst settling down to watch television. Alfie remarked: “We do love a good drama don’t we, darling?”.Andrew replied: “We love a good drama – less drama in our house, more drama on tele.”

Gogglebox is available to catch up on Channel.com