Emmerdale star Michelle Hardwick has revealed her family is grieving the loss of their beloved pet dog, Fred. The actress, famed for playing village vet Vanessa Woodfield, shared the sad news on social media, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and fellow soap stars alike.
A Beloved Family Member
Hardwick, who joined the ITV soap in 2012, posted a heartfelt tribute to her family's dog on Instagram on Tuesday, January 6. She described Fred as their 'protector' and confirmed he had 'lost his fight' that morning after seven years as part of their family.
'Our hearts are truly broken tonight, our house is not the same,' Michelle wrote. She praised Fred as 'an incredible little guy' and a 'warrior,' adding that the family would talk about him every day.
Support From Soap Co-Stars and Fans
The comments section was quickly flooded with messages of condolence. Her on-screen sister, Amy Walsh, who plays Tracy Metcalfe, responded: 'Awwww babe, I'm so sorry!!! Sending you so much love. Little Fred.'
Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien and former Emmerdale actress Natalie Ann Jamieson also sent their love. Fans joined in, with one writing they were 'absolutely devastated' by the news.
Michelle's Family Life Away from the Dales
Away from the cameras, Michelle is married to television executive Kate Brooks. The couple met on the set of Emmerdale, where Kate previously worked as a series producer before being appointed producer of Coronation Street in 2024.
They began dating in 2017 and married in 2019 in Memphis. The family includes their two young children: a son, Edward 'Teddy,' born in 2020, and a daughter, Betty, born in November 2022.
The loss of Fred marks a sad moment for the close-knit family, who have often shared glimpses of their life together, including their cherished pet, with followers online.
