John Barrowman has revealed the devastating loss of his cherished Jack Russell terrier, Captain Jack Harkness, who passed away peacefully after 18 years as the actor's faithful companion.
The 58-year-old Doctor Who star shared the news through an emotional video posted on social media, appearing visibly distraught alongside his husband Scott Gill whilst cradling the dog.
"Captain Jack Harkness our beloved Jack Russell has gone," Mr Barrowman wrote. "He waited until i came home and he died peacefully in his dada's arms within an hour of my return." (sic)
The former Dancing on Ice judge expressed gratitude that his beloved pet "died of old age and did not suffer."
**WARNING: This article contains footage that readers may find distressing**
John Barrowman has announced the sad passing of his pet pooch
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The accompanying footage captured Mr Barrowman speaking through tears, explaining that he had been aware throughout the day that his pet was "on his way out" whilst attending a fan convention.
"I got home tonight and he was still with us," the actor said in the video. "He waited until I got home and I held him. We put him in bed next to me and I held him."
Mr Barrowman described the moment of his dog's passing with raw emotion: "I felt his heart stop and now he's gone. He died in my arms. I am sad but it is just the way I wanted it."
The couple's other dogs, Dixie and Tito, were present during Captain Jack's final moments.
Supporters and famous faces have flooded Mr Barrowman's social media with messages of sympathy and shared grief following the announcement.
This Morning's Kate Lawler replied: "I’m so sorry John this is a heartbreaking video.
"What a grand old age though, the luckiest boy to have crossed the rainbow bridge in his Dad’s arms. Sending you both so much love."
Elsewhere, TV personality Bianca Gascoigne showed her support with a series of purple love heart emojis.
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"I'm sorry my friend," Diversity's Ashley Banjo penned, while radio presenter Sonny Jay echoed: "The day we all dread coming. Sending love John."
"So sorry for your loss, sending lots of love to you and Scott x," Britain's Got Talent star Jai McDowell weighed in, before actress Lisa George added: "I’m so so sorry. It’s heartbreaking xx."
And showbiz reporter Perez Hilton also sent his well-wishes: "Big hug to you both! Light!!!" (sic)
Mr Barrowman named his beloved pet after his iconic Doctor Who character, Captain Jack Harkness, whom he portrayed in the BBC science fiction series and its adult-oriented spin-off Torchwood.
Ashley Banjo was among the famous faces who reached out to Barrowman
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The character made his debut in the 2005 episode The Empty Child, going on to serve as a companion to the Doctor throughout the remainder of that series.
Captain Jack subsequently became the central figure in Torchwood, which broadcast from 2006 until 2011.
Mr Barrowman returned to the role multiple times, appearing in Doctor Who's third, fourth and twelfth series, along with special episodes The End of Time and Revolution of the Daleks.
The actor, a well-known dog enthusiast, currently lives with Gill in Palm Springs, California.