Actor Martin Clunes announced the death of his canine co-star Dodger, who played the character Buddy in the popular ITV comedy-drama Doc Martin. Clunes shared the news during an appearance on The One Show on Thursday.
Dodger appeared in the series as Buddy, the occasionally irritating companion of Clunes' character, Doctor Martin Ellingham. The Rough Jack Russell Terrier joined the show in 2009 for the fourth series.
Speaking on the program, Clunes confirmed Dodger was "no longer with us." He reflected on their time working together on the series.
Dog trainer Sonia Turner, who worked with Dodger, had previously announced the dog's passing in 2023 on her Instagram page. Fans shared messages of support following the news.
Clunes described filming scenes where his character showed frustration with the dog. He explained he would mime shouting during takes and add the sound later to avoid distressing the animal.
"Me and Sonia Turner, his trainer, and Dodger, we just had such fun on that," Clunes said. He noted they enjoyed pushing the limits of what they could do with Dodger on set, describing him as "fabulous."
Dodger retired from Doc Martin in 2019 after being diagnosed with dementia. A different dog of the same breed, named Taffy, took over the role for the show's final series.
The popular series Doc Martin aired on ITV from 2004 until its conclusion in 2022. Clunes appeared on The One Show hosted by Roman Kemp and Alex Jones.
In her earlier announcement, trainer Sonia Turner thanked those who remembered Dodger. She noted that many people had taken the little chap to heart both in the UK and abroad.
Turner wrote, "Tom and I are truly touched and amazed that our little chap had been taken to heart by so many people, both here and abroad. Bless you Dodger."(Source)
