Ant McPartlin has delivered an emotional and heartfelt tribute to his cherished dog Hurley, revealing he has shed many tears following the pet's recent passing. The 50-year-old Geordie presenter opened up about his profound grief during the latest episode of his podcast, which he hosts alongside his best friend and co-host Declan Donnelly.
Ant's Emotional Revelation on Podcast
Speaking candidly, Ant expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and strangers alike. He described how people have approached him with sympathies, even while he was on holiday or walking down the street. As images of Hurley flashed on the studio screen, Ant fondly recalled his "lovely boy," a chalky brown Labrador who lived to be twelve and a half years old.
The Heartbreaking Final Moments
Ant shared the poignant details of Hurley's final moments, explaining that the dog passed away in his arms at the veterinarian's office. He emphasized that the entire family was present, creating a sad yet beautiful opportunity to say goodbye collectively. This reunion included his ex-wife Lisa Armstrong, with whom he had shared custody of Hurley following a contentious court battle during their divorce.
Grieving Process and Daily Reminders
The television personality admitted to crying frequently, noting that the loss of a beloved pet is an incredibly tough experience. He described how daily routines, such as walking his two other dogs or preparing their food, trigger memories of Hurley, leading to emotional outbursts. Ant acknowledged that these moments are painful but also highlighted the comfort he finds in sharing stories and receiving condolences from others who have endured similar losses.
Hurley's Role in Ant's Life
Hurley played a significant role in Ant's life, notably helping him overcome struggles with drink and drug addiction in the past. This deep bond made the loss even more profound for the presenter, who credits the dog with providing unwavering support during challenging times.
Lisa Armstrong's Tribute on Social Media
Earlier in the week, Lisa Armstrong also paid tribute to Hurley by sharing nostalgic throwback photos on her Instagram Stories. The images showcased Hurley as a playful puppy, enjoying walks and cozy moments at home. Lisa posted the touching poem "Rainbow Bridge," which celebrates the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners, referring to Hurley as a cherished family member rather than just a dog.
The poem eloquently captures the joy Hurley brought, from his excited greetings at the door to his adventurous spirit. Lisa accompanied it with a snapshot of Hurley by the fireplace, captioned "Forever our boy," reflecting the enduring love she and Ant share for their late companion.
Celebrity Condolences and Support
Lisa's tribute garnered an influx of condolence messages from celebrity friends, including Anthea Turner, Kelly Willoughby (sister of Holly Willoughby), Gemma Atkinson, and Sophie Ellis Bextor. This widespread support underscores the impact Hurley had on those around him and the shared understanding of pet loss within their circle.
Ant concluded his podcast segment by thanking everyone for their kindness, emphasizing how such gestures provide solace during difficult times. He encouraged others who have lost pets to cherish the memories and acknowledge the deep emotional connections that make these losses so poignant.
