Leon and June: Our Story
'Leon often said he'd like to write our story. Now, I'll do it for him.'
As founding cast members of hit television show Gogglebox, Leon and June won the hearts of a nation with their warm humour and unending love for each other. When Leon sadly died at Christmas 2017, Gogglebox viewers were bereft, calling for a state funeral for our national treasure. In this touching memoir she looks back at all of the laughter and love they have shared together; letting us in on the secrets to a truly happy marriage in this wonderful celebration of two lives well lived.
Together for 63 years, coming to terms with life without Leon has been a difficult process for June. But the many treasured memories of their marriage will never leave her. From when, aged 18, she first laid eyes on Leon at teacher training college in 1955; their journey to marry when their parents disapproved; happy recollections of 1960s Liverpool; to building a loving home and family together before finding fame as pensioners. Firm favourites of Gogglebox, they were loved for their gentle teasing, Leon's cheeky gags and humorous rants, and June's unerring patience and caring touch.
Leon and June have experienced their fair share of highs and lows, but they always got through everything together. As Leon always said,
'As long as June's here, I'm all right.'
*Now available in paperback with a brand-new title, Forever Sweethearts*
June Bernicoff was born in South Wales in 1937, and is best known and well-loved for appearing on the award-winning television show Gogglebox. June was married to her husband of 57 years, Leon, who passed away in 2017. They met in 1955 at teacher training college, and were together for the next six decades, having two daughters together, Helen and Julie.
The first to be cast for Gogglebox, Leon and June were viewers' immediate firm favourites, becoming national treasures for their heartwarming relationship and brilliant wit. So great was their direct, down-to-earth, spot on commentary, they helped the show win many major awards, including a Bafta.
You can find June on Twitter @LeonAndJune, where she would love to hear from you.