Ricky Gervais' Tribute to 'After Life' Dog After Canine Co-star's Death

By Alex Assoune Jan 23, 2025

In an emotional moment that resonated with fans worldwide, Ricky Gervais, the multifaceted British comedian known for his roles in "The Office," "Extras," and more recently, "After Life," took to social media to share the sad news of the passing of his beloved canine co-star, Vislor Antilly, affectionately known as Anti. The German Shepherd, who played the heart-warming character of Brandy in all three seasons of "After Life," passed away peacefully at her home in Oxfordshire at the age of 13.

The Legacy of Brandy in "After Life"

"After Life," Gervais' Netflix series that explores themes of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in life, saw the character Tony (played by Gervais) navigating through life after the death of his wife, Lisa. Brandy, portrayed by Anti, was not just a pet in the series but a pivotal figure, providing comfort to Tony, pushing him towards healing, and even preventing him from taking his own life in a moment of deep despair. The dog's presence was central to the show’s emotional core, offering a symbol of unconditional love and companionship that resonated deeply with viewers.

Gervais himself had personally chosen Anti for the role, a decision that he would later describe as one of his favorite aspects of making "After Life." In his tribute, Gervais didn't just mourn the loss of a co-star but celebrated the bond they shared, both on and off the screen. He wrote on X, "Sad News. 'Anti', who played 'Brandy' in AfterLife, has died. She was 13 and a very good girl 😢," encapsulating the sentiment of loss felt by many who had grown attached to the character through the series.

Anti's Journey from Herefordshire to Hollywood

Born in April 2011 in Herefordshire at the Vislor Dog Training Centre, Anti was no stranger to the camera, having started her career at a tender age. Raised by trainers Travis and Ashley Foster, who themselves have a background in the film industry, having worked on "Batman: The Dark Knight," Anti was introduced to the world of acting as a mere 10-week-old pup. Her resume was impressive, featuring roles in high-profile films alongside stars like Tom Cruise in "Edge Of Tomorrow," Michael Fassbender in "Trespass Against Us," and George Clooney in "The Midnight Sky."

However, it was her role as Brandy that truly catapulted her to fame, making her a household name among viewers around the globe. Anti's natural performance, especially her chemistry with Gervais, made her more than just a TV dog; she became a symbol of comfort and loyalty during times of grief. Gervais highlighted this bond in his tribute, noting, "Anti was a beautiful soul. We hit it off straight away and she helped make After Life my favourite filming experience of all time. I’m so glad that I told her a hundred times a day that she was a very good girl."

The Impact of Anti's Character on 'After Life' and Its Audience

Brandy's role in "After Life" was more than just that of a companion; she was integral to the narrative, serving as a lifeline for Tony amidst his overwhelming grief. The series, balancing dark comedy with poignant life lessons, used Anti's portrayal of Brandy to explore themes of healing, the human-animal bond, and the small joys that make life worth living.

The emotional connection fans felt with Brandy was evident in the numerous tributes and condolences posted online. Many shared stories of how the character had helped them through their own experiences of loss or loneliness, underscoring the profound effect Anti had through her role. This connection was so strong that Gervais had to reassure fans on multiple occasions throughout the series' run that "the dog does not die," a testament to how deeply viewers cared for the canine character.

Gervais' Personal Connection with Anti

The bond between Gervais and Anti extended beyond the screen. In interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, it was clear that their relationship was genuine and heartfelt. Gervais often spoke fondly of Anti, sharing anecdotes about their time together during filming and how she had become a part of the "After Life" family. This connection was highlighted in a particularly moving segment on "The One Show," where Anti's emotional response to Gervais discussing death left viewers touched by their bond.

This affection was mirrored in the tributes from fans, who expressed not only their sorrow at Anti's passing but also their gratitude for the joy and comfort she brought into their lives through her character. Gervais' posts and comments about Anti on social media were filled with love and appreciation, painting a picture of a deep, personal connection that transcended the professional.

The Wider Impact of Anti's Legacy

Anti's legacy goes beyond her role in "After Life." She was a testament to the impact animals can have in storytelling, especially in narratives dealing with human emotions like grief and love. Her career, marked by roles in both television and film, highlighted the significant contributions of animal actors in the entertainment industry, showcasing their ability to evoke emotion and add depth to storytelling.

Her passing also sparked discussions on the welfare and recognition of animal actors, with many in the industry and fans alike calling for better treatment, acknowledgment, and perhaps even awards for the contributions made by animals in film and television.

Remembering Anti

In the days following the announcement, tributes poured in from fans, co-stars, and even other celebrities, sharing memories of Anti and the joy she brought to "After Life." Gervais' post on X became a gathering place for fans to express their condolences and share how Anti, through her role as Brandy, had touched their lives.

The show's official channels, along with Gervais' personal platforms, were flooded with messages, images, and videos celebrating Anti's life and contributions. Many spoke of how they would remember Anti not just for her role but for the laughter and tears she inspired, encapsulating the essence of what "After Life" stood for - finding light in the darkness.

Conclusion

Ricky Gervais' tribute to Anti is not just a farewell to a co-star but a celebration of a life that brought joy and comfort to many through the screen. Anti, through her portrayal of Brandy, became an emblem of loyalty, love, and the healing power of companionship. Her passing is a poignant reminder of the deep connections we can form with animals, both in fiction and in real life, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to be cherished by fans of "After Life" and animal lovers everywhere.

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About the Author: Alex Assoune

Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.

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