Radio 1 presenter Greg James announced on Monday night that his dog, Barney, has died. James, 40, shared the news on Instagram, stating he and his wife, Bella Mackie, had to have their dog put to sleep earlier that day.
"I'm sorry to bring such horrible news but we had to put our lovely Barn to sleep earlier today," James wrote on Instagram. "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."
He informed his followers that he would be absent from his Radio 1 show on Tuesday due to the loss. Charlie Hedges filled in for James, sending him a message of support and noting the positive messages listeners were sending.
James and Mackie adopted Barney, who featured regularly on their social media, from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2019. In recent years, Barney had been experiencing significant health issues, including severe and progressive joint problems and arthritis. He underwent extensive orthopaedic care and multiple surgeries over the years for his mobility issues.
Last month, the couple celebrated Barney's eighth birthday. James posted a tribute to him, calling him "the greatest idiot in the world" and expressing gratitude for him entering their lives. He also reflected on the satisfaction of helping animals overcome anxiety and learn to trust humans again, a sentiment he previously shared with PETA.
Barney had his own Instagram page with 67,000 followers. James noted that while comments were turned off on his post, he asked that people refrain from sending direct messages to him and Mackie as they were "completely floored" by the loss.