The cast of Home and Away has had to say goodbye to a beloved member of the team after he passed away. Sadly, the dog Buddy, who was introduced as Justin Morgan’s (James Stewart) dog in 2016, has died.
His owner Shelley posted a tribute to the pup on Instagram, saying: “I have lost my Buddy. We did so many fun things together over the years. His time on Home and Away was definitely the highlight for him and me. He loved going more than anything.
“We had a final trip to the beach planned but he just didn’t make it. He left peacefully at home in his bed while I held him. I have lost a big piece of my heart.”
Cast and crew members were quick to comment, with Lynne McGranger, who played Irene Roberts for 33 years, saying: “Oh I am so sorry to read this. Beautiful buddy.”
“Sending you so much love. The goodness boy ever,” added Sophie Dillman, who is known as Ziggy Astoni.
“Awww buddy,” wrote a former second Assistant Director.
One fan also joked that Buddy was “the best actor” on the show. “He was the best thing in Home and Away for many years. By far the best actor. He was an amazing dog and may he rest in peace and enjoy his time over the rainbow bridge,” they wrote.
Buddy was hired through Kirsko Film Animals, a company that provides animals for Film and TV work. The company has supplied animals for movies such as The Great Gatsby, Fury Road, Wolverine, and a variety of TV commercials.
Did the cast of Home and Away like working with Buddy?
James previously told New Idea Buddy the dog was intelligent. According to the actor, Buddy “always [knew] his lines, always [knew] his cues”. He also “recognise[d] and love[d] the Morgan family as if they were part of his own family in real life”. Awww.
The famous canine had plenty of experience before nabbing the role on Home and Away, making appearances in multiple TV commercials before his big break.
He hasn’t been seen on screen in a long time, but the characters will still mention him from time to time. It’s possibly due to his declining health, and it’s not known at this stage if there will be another dog taking over the role.
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