The death of a loved one is never easy, even though it’s a completely normal part of life. Veteran actor Russell Crowe sadly shares the news of his dog’s passing — on the same day that his father died two years before.
A Series Of Twitter Posts
The 58-year-old actor took to Twitter in order to announce his beloved papillon’s death.
“This Is Louis The Papillon”

“This is Louis the [Papillon]. 16 months old,” the tweet begins. “Tiny, cheeky, brave. He won my heart.”
An Unfortunate Accident
“Unfortunately, today, on the second anniversary of my father’s passing, Louis was hit by a truck,” he continues.
He Didn’t Make It
“We tried to get him to the vet, but he died in my arms while I was telling him how much we loved him,” Russell says in the tweet.
Two Deaths In One Date
As if it wasn’t tragic enough, the puppy passed away at the two-year mark since Russell’s 85-year-old father, John Alexander Crowe, died. He had also announced his father’s death via a series of heartbreaking tweets.
“I arrived back in the bush last night. Today, although the sun is shining and the torrential rain has abated, this date will forever be tinged with sadness,” The tweet read. “My dear old man, my beautiful dad, the most gentle of men, has passed away.”
“Rest In Peace”
The next tweet read, “John Alexander Crowe. 13th March 1936 – 30th March 2021. Born in Christchurch, New Zealand. Passed away in Coffs Harbour, NSW, his home for the last 25 years. Rest In Peace.”
“A Father I Wish For Everyone Else”
The thread ended with, “I had a father I wish for everyone else. Grief has a thousand shards, but love is stronger.”
“So Sorry To Hear This”
In both instances, friends, family, and fans are quick to give their condolences to Russell, both on Twitter and elsewhere online.
Fellow actor Vincent D’Onofrio replies, “So sorry to hear this, Russell. My heart goes out to you.”
“I Am So Sorry”
“I am so sorry! I like to think our pets wait for us to join them one day, loyal as ever,” says Alicia Rancilio from the Associated Press.
Scott Phillips from The Motley Fool says, “Bloody hell, mate. I’m sorry.”
PETA Replies
Even PETA, who’s notorious for taking away pets from owners, had a heartwarming message for the grieving actor.
“We are heartbroken for you and so deeply sorry for your loss,” their tweet reads. “Louis will be in your heart forever. Sending all of our love, comfort, and strength.”
“So Sad”

People are also showing sympathy on other platforms. Many commenters are also expressing their condolences.
“So sad. Dogs truly are best friends for life. Sending hugs and blessings,” says one commenter.
“Sad And Sorry For Your Loss”

Another commenter says, “Dogs are the most loving man’s best friend. Their unconditional love and loyalty know no bounds. Sad and sorry for your loss Russ.”
“Still Miss Her”

One commenter shared, “Papillons are the best. I had one growing up. She was such a happy little friend. Still miss her.”
“That’s Heartbreaking”

“Ahh, no, that’s heartbreaking. Poor little doggie getting knocked over and killed. Horrible as well for it to happen on the anniversary of his dad’s death. So it will be [an] even sadder memory now,” says another sympathetic commenter.
“Hit By A Truck!”

Sadly, not everyone feels the same way. Some commenters are implying that there’s someone to be blamed for the incident.
“Hit by a truck! Who was looking after that poor innocent animal? Not [Russell Crowe]..” says one commenter.
“Just Saying”

“Wasn’t the lovely little thing on a lead? I had one just like that [who] lived to 14 years, perhaps because she was on a lead near cars and trucks. Just saying,” another comment read.
“Totally Unavoidable”

One comment simply says, “totally unavoidable had it been on a lead.”
“Don’t Rub It In”

Thankfully, other commenters are quick to defend.
One comment said, “This poor little dog is gone because he had an IRRESPONSIBLE owner!”
To which another comment replied, “Don’t rub it in. The family must be gutted tonight.”
Our Condolences
Few things hurt more than the loss of a beloved family member. Time won’t heal all the wounds, but hopefully, things will be better for Russell Crowe and his family.