Greg James has revealed that his dog Barney was put to sleep and is missing today's Radio 1 breakfast show as he and his wife grieve.
The BBC presenter took to Instagram late last night and wrote: 'I'm sorry to bring such horrible news, but we had to put our lovely Barn to sleep earlier today. I can't really get my head around it.
'But he was peaceful; we were with him at home in the garden in the sunshine, and I can't stop crying. I know how loved this unbelievably daft farty brilliant dog was and I adored sharing him with everyone on here.'
Fans asked not to send messages
James turned off his comments and asked fans not to send him or his wife direct messages as they process the death of Barney.
'We're completely floored by it, and I can't believe our little mate has gone, and it's very real and very raw and just so f****ng sad. He was the best.'
In 2023, Barney developed a limp, prompting Greg to draft in the help of TV supervet Noel Fitzpatrick, whom he met long before he and his wife – author Bella Mackie – first adopted Barney from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in 2019.
Barney's health history
Barney's ankle was eventually replaced and he lost lots of weight, with his owners saying he was 'happier than ever and pain free' after the operation. It's unclear what health conditions Barney was dealing with before his death.
Greg has been super soppy with his mutt over the years, having once recommended we all think a bit more like Barney to recover from post-Covid anxieties.
Support from colleagues
Greg has been supported by his colleagues at the BBC, including host Charlie Hedges, who told listeners this morning about how sad he was over Barney's passing.
'Charlie Hedges in for one of the best people on the planet, Mr Greg James, who I just want to send a massive hug to. We love you, Greg, so so much – and want to keep the vibes positive for him today and have some fun.'
