EastEnders Star Michelle Collins Gives Beloved Dog Humphrey Final Beach Farewell
Actress Michelle Collins, renowned for her role as Cindy Beale on the BBC soap opera EastEnders, has been overwhelmed with support after revealing she said a final, emotional goodbye to her rescue dog Humphrey. The 63-year-old star and her husband Mike Davidson scattered the Shih Tzu's ashes at a treasured beach location in Old Hunstanton, Norfolk, a spot the dog loved during his 16 years by her side.
Heartbreaking Announcement and Tribute
Michelle Collins shared the devastating news of Humphrey's passing two weeks ago, describing him as a steadfast companion who brought immense joy to her life. In a moving social media post, she wrote, "So we scattered Humphrey’s ashes on the beach in Norfolk #oldhunstanton he used to love it here so we've come back with Peggy to stay with friends been coming here for years #missyou .@alldogsmatter #rescuedogs." She accompanied the message with a photo from 14 years earlier showing her and Humphrey at the same beach, adding a crying emoji to express her grief.
Flood of Support from Friends and Fans
The actress received an outpouring of condolences from celebrity friends and followers. Comedian Alan Carr responded, "Sending you lots of love," while fans shared heartfelt messages. One fan commented, "Sending love you and your lovely family and remembering handsome Humphrey," and another added, "How lovely that he's returned to, and become part of, a place he loved." This support highlighted the deep bond Michelle had with her pet and the community's empathy for her loss.
Humphrey's Life and Legacy
In her initial announcement, Michelle detailed Humphrey's journey, explaining he came into her life 16 years ago from the rescue charity All Dogs Matter. She described him as a constant presence in her dressing rooms, often seen in baskets or bags during theatre tours and shopping trips. Humphrey also visited retirement homes and hospitals, bringing smiles to children and adults alike with his gentle nature and distinctive tongue.
When Michelle met her husband Mike Davidson 14 years ago, Humphrey formed a close bond with him too, often accompanying Mike to work. Michelle humorously noted that Mike's attempts to clip Humphrey's hair didn't always go as planned. She expressed the profound impact Humphrey had, saying, "I cannot begin to describe how much joy he has brought into our lives and it is truly heart wrenching that he will no longer be there when I open my front door, wake up in the morning or go to sleep at night." Mike echoed this sentiment, stating, "my world was just a better place with him in it and I feel lost."
A Touching Final Resting Place
Choosing the beach in Norfolk for Humphrey's ashes was a poignant decision, as it was one of his favourite spots. Michelle's tribute, shared through photos and memories, celebrated Humphrey's life as "The Humph," with her concluding, "You were my favourite hello and my hardest goodbye." This act of scattering his ashes in a meaningful location provided a sense of closure and honour for the beloved pet who had been a cherished part of her family for over a decade and a half.
