CNN
—
Kirk Herbstreit’s adorable golden retriever, Ben, who brought countless smiles to many college campuses over the past two years, has passed away, ESPN’s College GameDay football analyst said.
A certified emotional service animal, Ben has become famous for his contagious and friendly personality while receiving national attention weekly. He caused uncontrollable “oohs and aahs” while accompanying Herbstreit around the country covering soccer.
Ben was often seen on set during live productions.
Ben will be appearing on Early Morning SportsCenter in Bloomington this morning!!! 😂🐶 pic.twitter.com/KDktTaRdy4
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) October 26, 2024
The longtime ESPN commentator sometimes brought his dog to Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.”
Kirk Herbstreit’s golden retriever, Ben, will be in the booth with Herbstreit and Al Michaels during Thursday night’s game. pic.twitter.com/uJb91hqiSk
— Awful Announcement (@awfulpayment) December 29, 2023
Herbstreit said Ben died after a battle with cancer.
“It’s really hard for me to write this, but because so many of you love and care about Ben, I wanted to let you all know that today, the cancer has spread to all of Ben’s organs. There was nothing more I could do. I had to let him go,” Herbstreit posted on social media with a photo of her holding Ben in her arms.
Ben had been working at Herbstreit for 10 years and became ill this year. According to ESPN, Ben was diagnosed with leukemia in March and underwent surgery in July.
“I’ve had dogs all my life, and Ben was my one-on-one. He’s smart, loving, gentle, patient, curious, and welcoming to everyone. He always had a big smile on his face and wagged his tail gently. He and I understood each other and supported each other more than anyone else at home. He was with me and traveled with me on business. He was a very easygoing companion. It’s been a tough day, but he will live in all of us forever.”
Dr. Herbstreit said Tuesday that Ben received a second chemotherapy injection in late October and his condition has worsened.
“One of the most difficult things I’ve ever gone through in my life. Ben is my best friend and companion. I love him with all my heart,” he said earlier this week.
@KirkHerbstreit’s dog Ben made an appearance at the LSU-USC pregame show 🐶😂 pic.twitter.com/BetPuCpvcl
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) September 1, 2024
The dog became a fan favorite in 2023 when Herbstreit first brought his large lab to the streets.
College football experts explained how much they love the Benn phenomenon in January.
“There’s just something different about him. I’m so happy that people love how happy he is and it makes their day better,” he said.
“That wasn’t my intention. As much as I wanted to travel, I also wanted a companion to travel with. He’s a really good friend of mine.”
@espn
We love you Ben 🐶 #dogsoftiktok #CFBPlayoff #football #michigan #washington #collegegameday
♬ Original song – ESPN
Herbstreit recorded the joy Ben brought to the world while the two went to work.
Ben often received his own press credentials, giving Puppy much-needed access to the scene.
Golden receivers coach takes on duty 🫡 pic.twitter.com/hBCtwNbh8L
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) October 19, 2024
Tributes poured in as news of Ben’s death spread.
I’m so sorry, Kirk. The wonderful life you have given me and the wonderful life Ben has lived.
…thank you to the entire TNF crew for telling me about him. I’ll miss him when he’s gone. pic.twitter.com/oHXCgoS72V
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) November 7, 2024
Sitting in my office with the door closed and crying in front of Kirk Herbstreit’s dog 😭😭😭 Rest in peace Ben, sweet angel 😭🙏❤️
— Emily! 🚂⚾️🏈🍊 (@emilyuel) November 7, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting Ben in January. Rest in peace Ben 😢 🐕 https://t.co/NZSDLgFGyf pic.twitter.com/ax59FHnDTu
— Chris Gordy (@ChrisGordy) November 7, 2024
