In a heartwarming yet bittersweet moment that’s melting hearts across the nation, Pete Wicks has welcomed a new furry addition to his family — a four-month-old rescue puppy named Rodney — just months after the devastating loss of his beloved French Bulldog Peggy left him utterly heartbroken.

The 36-year-old TOWIE star and Strictly Come Dancing alum took to Instagram on January 17, 2026, to share the emotional news, posting a series of adorable snaps and videos of the little pup cuddling up to him and playing with big brother Eric. The caption read like a love letter to both his grief and his hope: ‘Everyone meet 4 month old Rodney. Eric’s new little brother. Thank you to @dogstrust and @dogstrust_westlondon. Most people know that I lost my Peggy a few months ago and it broke my heart. I haven’t really spoken about it and I don’t want to…she was irreplaceable.’

Pete’s words struck a chord with fans, who flooded the comments with tears, support, and their own stories of pet loss. ‘She was irreplaceable,’ he continued. ‘Getting another dog isn’t about trying to replace who I’ve lost, it’s about being able to open my heart, home and provide a safe place and love for another dog who needs it. #AdoptDontShop.’

The announcement came after Pete had kept relatively quiet about Peggy’s passing, which he revealed late last year following months of treatment for an undisclosed illness. The French Bulldog had been a constant in his life — a loyal companion through the highs and lows of reality TV fame, from dramatic TOWIE storylines to his emotional journey on Strictly in 2024. Peggy featured in countless posts, cuddles on the sofa, and even appeared in clips from his U&W show Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, where he volunteers at Dogs Trust Basildon and advocates for rescue animals.

‘Peggy was more than a pet — she was family,’ a close friend told us. ‘Pete was devastated when she passed. He didn’t post much about it at first because it hurt too much. But welcoming Rodney shows he’s choosing love again, and that’s so Pete — always putting others first, even when he’s hurting.’

Rodney, a bundle of energy with floppy ears and big curious eyes, is settling in beautifully. Photos show him nuzzling into Pete’s lap, chasing toys alongside Eric (Pete’s other French Bulldog), and exploring his new home. The pup was adopted through Dogs Trust, the UK’s leading dog welfare charity, emphasising Pete’s long-standing commitment to rehoming over buying. As an ambassador for the charity and star of For Dogs’ Sake, Pete has spent years highlighting the joy of rescue dogs and the importance of giving them second chances.

Fans have praised the move as inspiring. ‘This is beautiful,’ one wrote under the post. ‘Nothing can replace Peggy, but Rodney looks like he’s bringing so much light back into your life.’ Another added: ‘From heartbreak to hope — Pete, you’re showing us how to heal with love. Rodney is lucky to have you.’

The emotional journey hasn’t been easy. Pete has been open in interviews and podcasts about how Peggy’s illness weighed on him. ‘She fought so hard,’ he shared previously. ‘Watching her go through treatment broke me, but she was the bravest little thing.’ Her death came quietly, away from the spotlight, allowing Pete time to grieve privately before sharing the news publicly.

Now, Rodney’s arrival feels like a gentle step forward. At just four months old, the pup is full of puppy mischief — zooming around the house, chewing toys, and demanding belly rubs. Pete’s videos capture tender moments: Rodney falling asleep on Pete’s chest, Eric gently sniffing the newcomer, and Pete laughing as the two dogs play-fight. ‘He’s already got the whole house wrapped around his paw,’ Pete joked in a follow-up story.

The timing couldn’t be more poignant. Pete’s career has been on a high — from TOWIE drama to Strictly’s dancefloor, where he showcased his softer side, and now his dog-focused show raising awareness for rescues. But through it all, his dogs have been his anchor. ‘Eric and Peggy were my constants,’ he once said. ‘They didn’t care about fame or cameras — just walks, treats, and cuddles.’

Rodney joins that legacy. Adopted from Dogs Trust West London, he’s already thriving in Pete’s loving home. The charity praised the adoption: ‘We’re thrilled Rodney has found his forever family with Pete. His story highlights why rehoming matters — every dog deserves a second chance.’

Social media has been awash with support. Celebrities and co-stars chimed in: former TOWIE castmates sent heart emojis, Strictly pros shared well-wishes, and fans launched mini-campaigns promoting adoption. ‘Pete’s turning his pain into something positive,’ one follower noted. ‘More people will adopt because of this.’

For Pete, it’s about healing. ‘I didn’t want to rush,’ he explained in the caption. ‘But when I met Rodney, I knew he was meant to be here. He’s not a replacement — he’s an addition. Love doesn’t run out; it grows.’

As Rodney settles in, Pete’s home is once again filled with the patter of paws and the unconditional joy only dogs can bring. The loss of Peggy will always leave a mark — she was irreplaceable, as Pete said — but in welcoming Rodney, he’s shown that grief and love can coexist, and that opening your heart after heartbreak is one of the bravest things you can do.

In a world of fleeting fame, Pete Wicks’ story reminds us of what’s truly important: family, loyalty, and second chances — whether for a reality star or a rescue pup. Welcome home, Rodney. Your new dad — and big brother Eric — are already smitten.