BBC Radio 1’s Greg James has revealed he missed today’s Breakfast Show after the death of his beloved dog, Barn.
Charlie Hedges stepped in to present the programme while Greg shared the emotional news with fans on social media.
Greg explained that he and his wife, author Bella Mackie, are struggling to come to terms with the loss after Barn was put to sleep at home.
Alongside a photograph of Barn, Greg wrote: “I’m sorry to bring such horrible news but we had to put our lovely Barn to sleep earlier today.”
He added: “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.”
Greg also thanked listeners and followers for the affection they had shown Barn over the years, while asking for some privacy as the couple deal with their loss.
He said: “I know how loved this unbelievably daft farty brilliant dog was and I adored sharing him with everyone on here but I hope you understand why comments are off and can I just ask you to not pile in with DMs particularly for Bella for a bit please.”
The Radio 1 presenter described the loss as deeply painful, saying: “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***ing sad. He was the best.”
Greg has regularly shared stories and photos of Barn with listeners and followers, making the dog a familiar and much-loved part of his social media updates.
His announcement prompted widespread support from fans, although he chose to disable comments on the post while asking people to give him and Bella space during what he described as a very raw time.
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