Greg James ‘can’t stop crying’ as he reveals heartbreaking reason for missing BBC Radio One breakfast show

Radio presenter Greg James has revealed the death of his dog in a heartbreaking social media post.

James, who hosts the BBC Radio 1 breakfast show, shared a message on Instagram on Monday evening (3 August) saying that his dog Barney, a chocolate Labrador, had been put to sleep.

After adding that he was “floored” by the news, James ended the post by saying he would not be on presenting duties on Tuesday morning.

James said: “I’m sorry to bring such horrible news but we had to put our lovely Barn to sleep earlier today.

“I can’t really get my head around it. But he was peaceful, we were with him at home in the garden in the sunshine and I can’t stop crying.

“I know how loved this unbelievably daft farty brilliant dog was and I adored sharing him with everyone but can I just ask you to not send DMs or bring him up to me or Bella for a bit please.

“We’re completely floored by it and I can’t believe my little mate has gone and we just can’t talk about it for a bit.

“Lots of love xx. Ps. Not on the show tomorrow obvs x.”

Replacing him on Tuesday morning (4 August) was Charlie Hedges, who told listeners: “Charlie Hedges in for one of the best people on the planet, Mr Greg James, who I just want to send a massive hug to. We love you Greg so so much – and want to keep the vibes positive for him today and have some fun.”

A few songs later, she sent “tonnes and tonnes of love” to Greg and his wife, Bella Mackie, adding: “If you follow Greg on Instagram, you’d have seen he posted last night. And also, shout out to you lot. Of course, you’re never ever gonna disappoint him and let him down. You’re sending in so many beautiful messages, so thank you very much and I will pass them onto him for sure.”

Barney was often mentioned on James’s radio show and was the subject of a recurring segment called "Barney, Are You There?!" He also regularly appeared in his Instagram posts, with James filming videos while taking the dog for a walk.

James adopted Banrey in 2019 from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. ”He was anxious and panicky when we met him, but the satisfaction you get from helping animals trust and love a human again is life-affirming,” he recently told PETA.

The DJ has previously shared news of Barney’s health, writing in a piece for The i that he cancelled his holiday to care for the dog after he had surgery to fix an arthritic ankle.

“The love I have for this dog constantly surprises me,” he wrote. “I started out thinking it would just be a laugh to have a silly bear to wrestle with and accompany me on walks. And it is a laugh, but it’s so much more than that now. He’s my actual friend.

“I miss him when I’m out of the house, I think about him when I’m doing something I don’t want to be doing. I wonder what he’s up to when I’m at work and I feel so sad at the thought of his stupid face not being there when I get home.”

Barney found himself the source of rumours in 2024 when James put his name up on billboards around London in the style of Charli XCX’s BRAT album, leading many to believe he was a mystery new artist collaborating with the musician on a remix version of the record.

Earlier in the year, James raised over £4m for Comic Relief after an eight-day tandem bike challenge that saw him cycle 1,000km from Weymouth to Edinburgh.

James’ final fundraising figure was revealed in the Comic Relief charity telethon on March 20.

Speaking to host Davina McCall, the DJ said his £4,225,939 total had “snowballed” thanks to a huge donation from the band Coldplay, who sent £100,000.

James was supported by Prince William and comedian Joe Lycett for the cycle, both of whom joined him for a leg of his journey.

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