Lisa Armstrong, the former wife of television presenter Ant McPartlin, has shared a devastating and heartfelt tribute on social media following the death of their cherished pet dog, Hurley. The chocolate Labrador was put to sleep last week after falling seriously ill, marking a profound loss for both Armstrong and McPartlin.
Emotional Social Media Post
On her Instagram account, Armstrong, aged 49, uploaded a poignant poem that expressed her deep grief and affection for Hurley. The poem read, "You left paw prints on our hearts from the moment we brought you home, so many wonderful adventures, all the places where we roamed." It continued with the lines, "The rainbow bridge came to call you, our time came to an end, you were never just a dog but always our best friend." This emotional message has resonated widely, highlighting the strong bond she shared with the animal.
Hurley's Significance in Their Lives
Hurley was more than just a pet; he represented a significant connection between Armstrong and McPartlin following their divorce in 2018. The dog had been at the centre of a custody battle after their separation, underscoring his importance to both individuals. McPartlin, aged 50, has openly acknowledged that Hurley played a crucial role in helping him through difficult periods, including struggles with addiction. He once remarked, "There’s a loyalty, love and companionship with Hurley you can’t describe. He never tells me off and is always pleased to see me."
Final Goodbye and Aftermath
Reports indicate that McPartlin rushed out of a Britain's Got Talent press conference upon learning that Hurley was "too ill to recover," demonstrating his deep attachment. The pair reportedly reunited for the first time since 2018 in a consulting room at a veterinary practice in west London, near McPartlin's home, to say their final goodbyes to Hurley. They set aside any personal differences to be present during this heartbreaking moment.
A source close to the situation revealed that McPartlin has since left the UK to mourn privately, finding it too painful to remain in his home where Hurley lived. The source stated, "He’s inconsolable. He absolutely adored Hurley and, naturally, he’s devastated. It came as a massive shock to everyone. Hurley has been a part of his life for 12 years, so to lose him like this is crushing." Additionally, the source mentioned, "He said he couldn’t be around Hurley’s things as he grieved ... Ant and Lisa loved him to bits. It’s an incredibly painful time for them both."
Current Family Dynamics
Ant McPartlin is now married to Anne-Marie Corbett, with whom he tied the knot in 2021. The couple shares two other dogs, maltipoos named Milo and Bumble, and they welcomed a son, Wilder, in May 2024. Despite these new family additions, the loss of Hurley has deeply affected McPartlin, underscoring the enduring impact of the Labrador on his life.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the profound emotional connections people form with their pets, often viewing them as integral members of the family. The outpouring of support from fans and followers on social media reflects the widespread empathy for Armstrong and McPartlin during this difficult time.
