Television personality Ant McPartlin has shared an emotional tribute to his late dog Hurley, describing how the beloved pet provided unwavering support during his battle with addiction. The Britain's Got Talent host made a sudden departure from a press conference this week after learning that Hurley, his Labrador, was too ill to recover and needed to be put to sleep.
Emergency Dash to the Vet
Ant McPartlin, 50, abruptly left Britain's Got Talent media commitments when he received the devastating news about Hurley's declining health. He rushed to the veterinary surgery where his ex-wife, make-up artist Lisa Armstrong, was also present. The couple had shared custody of Hurley since their separation in 2018, continuing to co-parent the dog they had adopted together in 2013.
A Constant Through Turbulent Times
For McPartlin, Hurley represented more than just a family pet. The television star credited the Labrador with helping him through the most challenging period of his life, when he faced serious substance abuse issues. "There's a loyalty and a love and a companionship with Hurley that you can't describe," McPartlin previously told The Times. "He never tells me off and is always pleased to see me."
This support proved crucial following McPartlin's 2018 drink-driving incident, where he crashed his Mini into two vehicles while under the influence. The subsequent legal proceedings resulted in a 20-month driving ban and an £86,000 fine, with public backlash threatening to derail his television career.
Putting Career on Hold
During this difficult period, McPartlin made the decision to step back from television work, marking the first career break since his teenage years. His presenting partner Declan Donnelly temporarily carried on without him, hosting Saturday Night Takeaway solo and presenting I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here alongside Holly Willoughby.
Donnelly later revealed his complex emotions during this time, telling The Times that he wanted to "punch him and hug him at the same time." Throughout this professional and personal turmoil, Hurley remained a constant source of comfort for McPartlin.
The Bond That Survived Divorce
When McPartlin and Armstrong's marriage ended in 2018 after twelve years together, the television presenter made it clear that Hurley was non-negotiable. "Hurley's welfare comes first and we both love him very much," McPartlin stated at the time. The couple had originally adopted the Labrador after experiencing difficulties having children, doting on him throughout their relationship.
Since remarrying Anne-Marie Corbett, McPartlin has adopted two Maltipoo dogs with his new wife. However, he has consistently emphasized Hurley's unique role in his life, particularly during his recovery journey.
Finding Stability and Gratitude
Speaking recently on Ferne Cotton's Happy Place podcast, McPartlin reflected on his current mental health and sobriety. "I feel pretty good. I work at it a lot," he explained. "Because I'm sober, there's things I work at daily, gratitude lists of an evening, little prayers, so it's something you constantly have to check in with."
The television star also discussed embracing his fifties after finding his early forties particularly challenging. "Turning 50 for me was great because my early forties was a really tough time," McPartlin told The Times. "These last few years, it's the happiest I've been in a long, long time."
McPartlin's sudden departure from the Britain's Got Talent press conference underscores the profound bond he shared with Hurley, whose companionship proved instrumental during the presenter's most difficult personal and professional challenges.
