The dog who portrays Stella in the hit sitcom Modern Family has died.
The French Bulldog - real name Beatrice - passed away at the age of 10, days after the end of shooting on the series finale, according to The Blast.
Her cause of death is currently unknown.
One of her owners wrote on Instagram with a photo of Beatrice: "My Ride Or Die. Always. #Beatrice"
Beatrice joined the show in season 4, following the departure of dog Brigitte from the cast after the owner wanted her to be supervised daily.
The role of Stella was then played by Beatrice all the way until the conclusion of season 11.
The character of Stella had previously been introduced in the second season as a troublesome puppy.
Stella went on to become a staple of the Pritchett family, which includes Jay ( Ed O'Neill ) and Gloria ( Sofia Vegara ).
Actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson responded to news of the beloved pooch's passing.
Jesse tweeted yesterday: "Rest In Peace sweet Beatrice. We love you so much."
Beatrice's owners Guin and Steve Solomon spoke of Beatrice's role in the show back in 2017 with Bodie on the Road.
They revealed that Vegara wasn't particularly keen on any dog being in the cast as Stella was introduced to the show.
Guinn revealed that "the character is true to form about how she is! She’s from Colombia so dogs are dirty to her.
"She wasn't that thrilled when Stella was put introduced to the show so we respectfully keep our distance!"
One person who was massively keen on Stella was, of course, the man behind Jay Pritchett.
Guinn said: "Ed O’Neill is in love with her! It’s very easy working with him because he brings Beatrice treats like popcorn and always looks out for her – like we’ll be doing scenes in the backyard by the pool and in between takes he’ll say, 'Would you please get Beatrice an umbrella, she’s in the sun!'"
Modern Family airs on Sky One and NOW TV in the UK.
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