Donnie Wahlberg mourns the loss of his dog and “constant sidekick” Lumpy, who died at age 12.
The former New Kids On The Block member, 52, paid tribute to his beloved dog in a tear-jerking Instagram post, revealing that the pet died on May 18.
“So many of you asked me about my constant sidekick, Lumpy,” wrote the “Step By Step” hitmaker.
“His usual playful presence, by my side, was clearly missed by all. Night after night I awkwardly avoided the conversation.”
The singer said his French bulldog, Francis “Lumpy” Wahlberg, was so important to so many people and couldn’t bear to share the sad news of his death publicly when it happened.
“Three things we all desperately needed after years of grief, heartache and struggle,” he continued. “I know how much Lumpy meant to so many of you.”
“He had become a special member of our Blockhead family. He was also a very special and beloved member of my family. His loss was a devastating blow to all of us,” Wahlberg added.
The touching post featured a carousel of images of the dog over the years, as well as a video of Lumpy with Wahlberg’s wife of seven, Jenny McCarthy.
Wahlberg said his unbreakable bond with Lumpy started shortly after his son Elijah convinced him to get a dog 12 years ago.
“Lumpy was by my side — on set, on tour, on planes, trains, boats and cars,” Wahlberg wrote.
He continued, “He is a constant loving companion and loyal friend to me and so many of you who have come to know him.”
“To some, Lumpy was a TV star, a rock star and a source of joy. For me – he was all that and more,” he wrote, adding: “He was my best friend. My family and I will miss him terribly, as I know you all will.”
The sad news saw fans rushing to express their condolences, and the hashtag #RIPLumpy quickly kicked off trending on Twitter on Wednesday, prompting a response from Wahlberg.
“You are simply the most amazing fans, friends and family ever. Seriously. My dear Blockhead fam. Thanks for the get well wishes. So moving, “Wahlberg tweeted.