Pete Wicks, the charismatic star known for his time on The Only Way Is Essex and his recent stint on Strictly Come Dancing, has finally opened up about one of the most painful chapters of his life. In a raw and emotional revelation on his podcast Staying Relevant, Pete shared the devastating news that his beloved French Bulldog, Peggy, had passed away after a prolonged battle with health issues. The words he used captured the depth of his grief: “I Don’t Know How to Accept This.” And in a quieter moment, he added, “She was my constant — and now she’s gone.”

The announcement came in mid-December 2025, during an episode where Pete had brought along his other dog, Eric, for moral support. Fans had long noticed Peggy’s absence from his social media posts and podcast appearances, sparking concerned messages. Pete, ever the private yet open personality when it comes to his animals, knew he couldn’t avoid addressing it forever. What followed was a heartfelt outpouring that resonated deeply with pet owners around the world, reminding everyone how profound the bond between human and dog can be.

Peggy wasn’t just a pet; she was family. Adopted in 2018 from the charity French Bulldog Saviours as a rescue with one eye—earning her the affectionate nickname “Pirate Peggy”—she quickly became the center of Pete’s world. Pete, who has always been vocal about his love for animals and his work with rescues, often described her as having a larger-than-life personality despite her small frame. “She’s got one eye, so she’s my Pirate Peggy,” he once told a magazine with a fond laugh. “I used to be Pirate Pete back in the day, so it fits.” He gave his dogs voices in his head, personalities that made everyday moments feel like scenes from a quirky family sitcom. Peggy’s dramatic flair, her stubborn cuddles, and her unwavering loyalty turned her into more than a companion—she was his emotional anchor through the highs and lows of fame.

Pete’s journey with Peggy took a heartbreaking turn earlier in 2025. In July, he confided in fans that he had “nearly lost” her. The French Bulldog, a breed notoriously prone to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health complications, had been undergoing “months of treatment.” Pete didn’t go into graphic detail publicly at the time, but those close to him knew the toll it took. Vet visits became routine, medications piled up, and sleepless nights followed as he watched his girl struggle. He described the period as “a tough week” in one update, but it stretched far longer. Hope flickered—perhaps a miracle recovery—but reality proved harsher. Peggy passed away in November 2025, roughly a month before Pete felt ready to share the news publicly.

The podcast episode where he broke his silence was understated yet gut-wrenching. Pete explained he had brought Eric instead because “the reason Peggy’s not here is because I lost Peggy recently… about a month ago.” His voice cracked slightly as he spoke, a rare vulnerability from a man who has built a career on charm and cheeky banter. He emphasized it wasn’t the main topic of the show, but he knew questions would come. “I haven’t really spoken about it, and I don’t want to,” he later elaborated in a written post. Yet the grief poured out anyway. “She was irreplaceable,” he said, capturing the unique space each pet carves in our hearts—no one can fill it exactly the same way.

For Pete, losing Peggy reopened old wounds. He had previously lost another beloved dog, Ernest (a pug), suddenly in 2016 (some sources note around 2021 in reflections, but the impact lingered). That loss propelled him into animal advocacy, leading to his long-running documentary series Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, which follows the work of Dogs Trust and promotes adoptions. Peggy’s death added another layer to his mission. “She was my constant,” he reflected, highlighting how Peggy provided stability amid the chaos of television, podcasts, tours, and public scrutiny. Through breakups, career pivots, and the intense spotlight of Strictly Come Dancing in 2025—where he impressed viewers with his dedication and humor—Peggy was there at home, greeting him with her signature waddle and snorts.

The public response was overwhelming. Fans flooded social media with condolences, sharing their own stories of losing pets. Messages poured in: “Peggy was such a fighter,” “She knew how loved she was,” “You’re not alone in this pain.” Pete’s openness struck a chord because pet loss is often minimized in society—people say “it was just a dog”—but for many, it’s akin to losing a child or closest friend. Studies show grief over pet death can mirror human bereavement, with stages of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Pete seemed stuck somewhere between denial and depression. “I don’t know how to accept this,” he admitted, a phrase that became the emotional core of his statement. It spoke to the disbelief that sets in when routine is shattered: no more morning walks, no more funny videos of Peggy “talking” back, no more quiet evenings with her curled on his lap.

In the weeks following the announcement, Pete continued his advocacy work. Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake returned for its third series in January 2026 on U&W, premiering with emotional stories that hit even closer to home now. The show, which has boosted adoptions nationwide, features Pete at the Dogs Trust center in Basildon—where he rescued Eric years ago—highlighting rescue journeys and the transformative power of giving animals second chances. Peggy’s memory fueled his passion; he has long criticized breeders and pushed for responsible ownership, especially for brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies that face health challenges.

Then, in mid-January 2026, Pete surprised fans with a new chapter. He introduced Rodney, a four-month-old puppy adopted from Dogs Trust. Photos and videos showed Rodney playing with Eric, the two French Bulldogs already forming a bond. Pete was careful in his wording: “Most people know that I lost my Peggy a few months ago and it broke my heart. I haven’t really spoken about it, and I don’t want to… she was irreplaceable. Getting another dog isn’t about trying to replace who I’ve lost, it’s about being able to open my heart, home and provide a safe place and love for another dog who needs it.”

This move sparked mixed reactions. Some praised his courage to love again; others understood the hesitation—grief doesn’t vanish with a new pet. Pete clarified it beautifully: adoption honors the lost by continuing the cycle of rescue and compassion. Rodney isn’t Peggy’s replacement; he’s a new soul in need, just as Peggy once was. The images of Rodney’s playful energy alongside Eric’s steady presence offered a glimmer of healing. Pete thanked Dogs Trust profusely, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to the cause.

Reflecting on Pete’s journey, it’s clear Peggy’s loss transcends celebrity gossip. It’s a universal story of love, loyalty, and letting go. Pete Wicks, the tattooed, charismatic reality star with over 50 meaningful inks—including memorials for lost pets—showed a softer side. His advocacy, born from pain, has saved countless animals. Peggy’s legacy lives on in every adoption story he shares, every fan inspired to rescue rather than shop.

As Pete navigates 2026—with new podcast seasons, potential acting roles, and continued TV projects—he carries Peggy with him. “She was my constant,” he said, a simple truth that echoes for anyone who’s loved and lost a pet. The house feels quieter, the routines altered, but the love remains. In time, acceptance may come, but for now, Pete’s honest grief reminds us it’s okay not to be okay. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know how to accept this.” Because some bonds are eternal, even when the physical presence is gone.

In the end, Peggy wasn’t just a dog. She was a pirate-eyed companion who taught Pete—and through him, the world—about resilience, unconditional love, and the courage to keep opening your heart despite the risk of heartbreak. Rest in peace, Pirate Peggy. You were loved beyond measure.