Beloved TV dog Seven, known for playing Dog on The Walking Dead, has passed away, leaving fans mourning the loss. The news of Seven’s death was shared by AMC and The Walking Dead’s official social media accounts, paying tribute to the talented animal actor. Seven made his debut on the show in 2018, in the season 9 episode “Stradivarius,” and quickly became a fan favorite as Daryl Dixon’s loyal companion.
Norman Reedus, who plays Daryl on the show, took to Instagram Stories to express his grief over Seven’s passing, referring to him as the “best TV buddy ever.” Reedus had long advocated for Daryl to have a dog on the show, and his wish was granted when Dog was introduced as Daryl’s faithful sidekick. The bond between Daryl and Dog was a significant aspect of the show, showcasing Daryl’s need for companionship in the post-apocalyptic world.
Seven’s role as Dog was not only essential for Daryl’s character development but also added depth to the storyline. Showrunner Angela Kang explained that having a dog as a companion for Daryl was a way to show his emotional state after the disappearance of Rick Grimes. The presence of Dog symbolized Daryl’s longing for connection and his capacity for love, despite the harsh reality of their world.
The talented Belgian Malinois drew praise from the show’s director, David Boyd, who commended Seven’s intelligence and acting skills. Even in the most challenging scenes, Seven proved to be a dedicated and skilled performer, exceeding expectations and enhancing the overall quality of the show. Lynn Collins, who played Leah on the show, also shared fond memories of working with Seven, praising his gentle demeanor and professionalism on set.
Seven’s final appearance on The Walking Dead was in the series finale, “Rest in Peace,” in November 2022, marking the end of an era for fans who had grown attached to Dog’s character. While Seven may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on through the impact he made on the show and the hearts of fans worldwide. The loss of Seven is a reminder of the significant role animals play in storytelling and the lasting impression they leave on audiences. As fans mourn the passing of Seven, they will always remember the joy and companionship he brought to The Walking Dead.