Ricky Gervais, the renowned comedian and actor, has recently shared a heartbreaking tribute following the passing of his beloved co-star from the popular Netflix show “After Life.” The star in question was not a human actor, but a 13-year-old Vislor named Antilly, who played the role of Brandy on the show. Antilly passed away peacefully at her home in Oxfordshire, leaving behind a legacy of love and loyalty. Gervais took to Instagram to express his profound sadness over the loss, sharing a touching photo of himself with Antilly and fondly reminiscing about their time together on set.
In his heartfelt tribute, Gervais described Antilly as a “beautiful soul” who had a significant impact on his experience filming “After Life.” He remembered how they instantly connected and highlighted her role in making the filming process his favourite of all time. Gervais’s emotional message resonated with fans, who were moved by his genuine affection for his four-legged co-star. Throughout the show’s three series, Antilly played a crucial role as Tony Johnson’s loyal companion and confidante, garnering a substantial following of her own.
Despite dealing with heavy themes of loss and grief, “After Life” was a resounding success, reaching the top of Netflix’s most-watched programmes globally. Antilly, or ‘The World’s Most Famous Dog’ as she came to be known, played a vital part in Tony’s journey towards healing and acceptance. Gervais, known for his humour and wit, made a conscious effort to reassure viewers that “the dog does not die,” a promise he kept until the end, providing a sense of comfort to audiences invested in the character of Brandy.
Antilly’s rise to fame began at Vislor Dog Training Centre in Herefordshire, where she was born in April 2011. Her pedigree was not limited to the small screen, as both her parents had a background in acting and appeared alongside Bane’s henchmen in the hit film “Batman: The Dark Knight Rises.” Antilly’s own acting career flourished, with roles in Hollywood productions alongside A-list stars such as Tom Cruise, George Clooney, and Michael Fassbender, showcasing her versatility and talent.
In addition to her silver screen accomplishments, Antilly made notable appearances on various TV shows, including BBC’s “The Capture,” ITV’s “Doc Martin,” and popular programs like “Britain’s Got Talent” and “8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown.” Her versatility and charm endeared her to audiences across different platforms, cementing her status as a beloved canine celebrity. Even in her final on-screen role in an episode of “Midsomer Murders,” Antilly displayed her acting prowess before retiring at the age of 11, leaving behind a lasting impression on viewers.
The passing of Antilly, while a loss for Gervais and the entertainment industry, serves as a poignant reminder of the profound connections we forge with our animal companions. Throughout her career, Antilly brought joy, comfort, and laughter to countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on all those who had the pleasure of working with her. As fans mourn the loss of a beloved co-star, they can take solace in the memories of Antilly’s talent, spirit, and unwavering loyalty that will endure for years to come.