Remembering Kirk Herbstreit’s Game Day-Crashing Dog, Ben: A Tribute to a Beloved ESPN Mascot
In a heartbreaking turn of events, ESPN host Kirk Herbstreit’s faithful companion, Ben, has passed away. The beloved game day-crashing dog, known for his energetic spirit and unwavering loyalty, captured the hearts of fans and colleagues alike with his playful antics and endearing presence.
Ben was a constant presence by Herbstreit’s side, always eager to join in on the excitement of game day and bring a smile to everyone he encountered. His playful nature and boundless energy made him a beloved mascot of sorts, adding an extra dose of joy to the already thrilling atmosphere of college football games.
Despite his small stature, Ben had a big personality that left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of meeting him. His infectious enthusiasm and unwavering loyalty will be sorely missed by all who knew him, especially Herbstreit himself.
As fans mourn the loss of this beloved four-legged friend, they can take comfort in knowing that Ben’s memory will live on through the countless memories and moments of joy he brought to so many. Rest in peace, Ben. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.
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ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit and his dog Ben watch players warm up before the start of an NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Arkansas on Oct. 5 in Fayetteville, Ark.
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ESPN host Kirk Herbstreit announced the death of his dog, Ben — a golden retriever who captured the hearts of football fans in appearances alongside ESPN announcers.
“This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know,” Herbstreit wrote Thursday on X. “We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Ben’s organs and there was nothing left we could do-we had to let him go.”
This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know. We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Bens organs and there was nothing left we could do-we had to let him go. I’ve had dogs my whole life but Ben was 1 on… pic.twitter.com/jDvPTbNv2M
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) November 7, 2024
Herbstreit had told fans earlier this year that 10-year-old Ben had been diagnosed with leukemia, requiring chemotherapy treatment and major surgery. In September, Herbstreit said that Ben had had an “incredible recovery” and had been able to resume travel with the College GameDay chief analyst.
But on Monday, Herbstreit told his supporters that Ben, who was a certified emotional support animal, had again fallen ill.
“Ben had a 2nd chemo injection on October 23rd and from that day has been getting worse and worse,” he wrote on X. “He has lost use of his back legs-almost like they’re paralyzed. He can barely walk. He hasn’t eaten in 3 days.”
Herbstreit said at the time that he and Ben were in Pennsylvania seeking treatment from a holistic doctor who was using vitamin C to try to treat the pup.
“I’ve had dogs my whole life but Ben was 1 on 1,” Herbstreit wrote in tribute to Ben. “Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate…he and I understood each other and had each other’s backs. He was with me more than anyone at home and traveling with me for work. Such an easy going companion. Hard day–but he will live within all of us forever.”
During his time as an honorary sports analyst, Ben picked up fitting titles ranging from “chief happiness officer of football” to “treat analyst.”
Just want to thank the @NFL teams PR depts and college football SID’s that we’ve been with this year for making credentials for Ben every week. It’s been so much fun to see him embraced by so many.
Truly appreciate it!
These 2 were from previous weeks that I just got! pic.twitter.com/22mUrZzgbG— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) October 17, 2024
On Herbstreit’s social media pages, Ben’s fans paid tribute to the dog and praised Herbstreit for returning to work even through his grief.
“We love you, Kirk,” one person wrote on an Instagram post showing a tail-wagging Ben excitedly walking through a hotel. “This man calls a game the day his dog passes. He loves football, but more importantly, he loved Ben. That dog was truly one of a kind.”
“ESPN Host Kirk Herbstreit Mourns Beloved Game Day Crashing Dog Ben’s Passing”
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