BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James and his wife, author Bella Mackie, have publicly rebuked a social media user who criticized Bella for promoting her upcoming book just days after the death of their beloved dog, Barney. The couple, who adopted Barney from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2019, announced the dog's passing on Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues.
Backlash and Response
On Wednesday, Bella, 43, shared a smiling selfie holding her new book, Claws Out!, which is scheduled for release on August 27. The caption read: 'First review is in! It's some very welcome good news at a very sad time…' One Instagram user commented, 'Too soon before your pup died!!' To which Bella replied bluntly, 'F**k you'. Greg, 40, then weighed in, responding to the troll: 'our grief and how we deal with it is absolutely nothing to do with you. Or more simply put, what Bella just said.'
Support from Fans
Bella later screenshotted the harsh comment and shared it on her Instagram Story, adding: 'Gave me an odd moment of dark comedy actually so thanks for your deranged message I guess?' Many fans defended the couple. @angelinalinker pointed out that 'part of Bella's contract will have that she has to do promo at certain times', while @ojfab said: 'she's literally crying in her story talking about it. People still have to work and get on with life too. Even if it's s****y'. @craigmc1983 echoed: 'Who are you telling someone what they can and can't do while grieving?'
Announcement of Barney's Death
In his original statement, Greg, who adopted Barney with Bella from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2019, requested that followers not 'pile in with DMs' for the couple as they process their loss. He also turned off comments on his post. Greg shared that the pair were 'at home in the garden in the sunshine' when Barney passed, but he still 'can't stop crying'. He acknowledged how 'loved' Barney was, noting that the dog had his own Instagram page with over 60,000 followers. Greg concluded: 'I can't believe our little mate has gone and it's very real and very raw and just so f***ing sad. He was the best.'
Absence from Radio and Colleague Support
Greg was absent from his radio show the following day, with Charlie Hedges stepping in. Hedges called Greg, who has also been dealing with his father being admitted to intensive care, 'one of the best people on the planet'. She told listeners: 'We love you, Greg, so, so much – and want to keep the vibes positive for him today and have some fun. 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 on to him, for sure.'
Barney's Health Struggles and Legacy
Barney's health issues were well-documented online. He suffered from severe joint problems, including extensive arthritis, and underwent numerous operations to improve his mobility. Despite his struggles, Barney was inundated with birthday wishes in June when he turned eight. Greg shared a video of him and Bella singing to Barney, writing: 'Happy Birthday to the greatest idiot in the world. Eight years ago he didn't know we existed and I'll be forever grateful to the b******s that gave him to Battersea which eventually led him to us. He's ruined our lives in the best possible way and I wouldn't change any of it'. Greg previously told Peta that welcoming Barney into his life and teaching him to 'trust a human again' had been 'life-affirming'.
