A Nation's Best Friend: Remembering Ben, Kirk Herbstreit's Beloved Golden Retriever
The world of college football mourned the loss of Ben, the golden retriever who became a beloved figure alongside ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. Ben's passing earlier this week prompted an outpouring of support and heartfelt tributes, culminating in an emotional segment on ESPN's "College GameDay" ahead of the LSU-Alabama matchup.
Ben's Rise to National Prominence
Initially brought on the road by Herbstreit as a travel companion, Ben quickly transcended his role as a pet, becoming a social media sensation and a cherished member of the college football community. Hotel rooms can sometimes feel like islands of solitude and his warm presence became Herbstreit's anchor to home, making his journeys feel less like wandering and more like belonging.
Ben became a star, as fans and those in the college football community embraced him since Herbstreit first brought him on the road. Ben wasn't out here to become a social media star, but he became one just by being himself. The Rose Bowl named him its chief happiness officer, and that's exactly what he did.
A Touching Tribute on "College GameDay"
The "College GameDay" tribute showcased Ben's journey from a personal companion to a national celebrity. Herbstreit, visibly moved, narrated a video montage of Ben's appearances on "College GameDay" and in the broadcast booth.
Herbstreit broke down on the "College GameDay" set leading into the tribute: "Dogs are known as man's best friend. But what do you call a dog that becomes a nation's best friend? You call him, 'Ben.'" When I was working in a hotel room or a broadcast booth, on the 'College GameDay' set, reaching down and feeling that fur at my feet, made me feel like I was home.
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Ben's Impact on Others
Ben's appeal lay in his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. On planes, in hotel lobbies, on the beach, in the mountains, it did not matter if you were a college student, a movie star, a national championship quarterback or even a state governor. Ben didn't care who you were. Everyone deserved his love.
Herbstreit highlighted Ben's unique gift for bringing people together, noting that "At a time when everything seems to be aimed at dividing us, our love of football unites us every weekend." He just wagged that tail or nestled up against strangers like they were family and that's what they became.
The Outpouring of Support
The announcement of Ben's death on Thursday, following a battle with cancer, was met with an outpouring of support from across the nation. Ben was met from an outpouring of support from humans and dogs alike, including Washington's Dubs and Texas A&M's Reveille.
Herbstreit expressed gratitude for the support, noting that "It gives me and my family such comfort knowing how he impacted so many people's lives around the country. He was a beautiful and loving soul.”
The Legacy of a Beloved Companion
Herbstreit also lamented the limited time owners get with their dogs. Dogs’ only flaw as a species is that they don’t live long enough, but the warmth they give us that never goes away, so neither will Ben.
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Ben's legacy extends beyond his social media fame. He represented the unwavering love and companionship that dogs offer, reminding us of the importance of connection and unity. Ben became a friend to everyone through the power of the media. Thank you for allowing Ben to be a part of our lives and sharing him with us on Game Day. Each and every one of us enjoyed seeing him week in and week out. and I hope in some way this helps you know that his presence was not in vain.
Ben: More Than Just a Dog
Many echoed the sentiment that Ben was more than just a pet, but a member of the family and a best friend. Ben is living proof that our dogs are MUCH MORE than a “just a pet”, but moreso, members of our families and our best friends. Kirk Herbstreit displayed those exact same feelings with his sincere pain and tears on-set today.
The tributes to Ben served as a reminder of the profound impact animals can have on our lives, offering unconditional love and companionship that transcends social barriers.
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