Russell Tovey Says Goodbye To His French Bulldog Rocky

Actor Russell Tovey shared very sad news last week, and his many fans felt devastated for him as his pup, Rocky, died at the age of 13. The cute Frenchie was a big thing in the life of Russell and his tribute revealed that his furry friend was his “best friend.”

A Last Photo Of Rocky

On Instagram the sad passing arrived with a black and white photo. In it, Rocky lay on top of Tovey’s chest and grinned in his doggy way for the camera. Sadly, it arrived just days after the pup celebrated a thirteenth birthday.

Rocky and Russell – @russelltovey – Instagram

In his caption, Russell Tovey wrote:

Rocky Tovey 20.11.2012 – 27.11.2025 – I’m gonna miss you so much my little mate, you’ve been the best friend anyone could ever ask for – sleep deep Rockstar, I love you.

Tovey and Rocky seemed inseparable, so many fans and friends took to the comments to say how sorry they felt about the passing of the cute pup.

Fans React

Actors Luke Evans and Gugu Mbatha-Raw both posted supportive messages in the comments. But of course, those fans who enjoyed seeing Rocky in his life also sent in their thoughts. Did you know that once, he described himself as his dog’s “agent” because of the popularity of the pup?

One follower wrote, “We are so sorry for your loss, Russell. RIP wonderful Rocky. We know how difficult this time will be for you and Rocky’s other loved ones.”

Of course, losing a pet is exactly the same as losing a family member. And, each holiday season, no doubt, the memories will bring a twinge of sadness, going forward.

Here are a few more responses:

Oh man, everyone could see how much you loved him. So sorry to read this.
So sorry for the loss of your friend,Rocky. He was a sweetheart. Praying for strength for you to get through this.
Oh no. I am so so sad for you. I know how much you loved him. This is truly terrible. Losing a beloved beast is a terrible, lonely thing.
I’m sorry for the loss of your best friend and companion.
I’m so sad for you. He’s been your wing man for so long and your love for Rocky was always felt by your fans. May Mr R rest in peace. Sorry for your loss.

Grief & Pets

One follower suggested that Russell Tovey goes for grief counseling. And, that’s not a bad idea. These days, the old “grin and bear it” seems to have faded away. When a pet passes, the stages of grief mirror the loss of any person close to the bereaved.

Did you ever lose a beloved pet and get help to work through your grief? Let us know in the comments below, and come back here often for all your celebrity dog news and updates.

Jane Flowers

I am a freelance journalist, self-published author, and a senior curator at Blasting News on the USA platform. I studied journalism and human communications in Australia and New Zealand. I have been writing and publishing since 2001.