Uggie, the canine is retiring
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THE FILM industry is reeling from the news that Uggie, its most lauded canine performer, is hanging up his dog collar and retiring.
Uggie has been the toast of this year's awards season, flying the flag for the French silent film The Artist. But following an appearance at the Oscars on 26 February, he will settle into retirement.
No one can say that the rest isn't well earned – the Jack Russell has taken the lead role in two feature films, supporting roles in two more and has been seen in many TV shows and commercials over the course of a six-year career.
There have even been rumours that he was asked to bear the burden of promoting The Artist so as to distract movie goers from the film's Frenchness. The producers are said to have felt that being seen as too Gallic could damage the movie's chances in the States, and so turned to Uggie to provide some diversionary charm.
Between movie roles and promotional duties, it has all begun to get a bit much for the 10-year-old (70 in dog years). His handler, Sarah Clifford, is quoted by the Hollywood Reporter as saying: "We don't force our dogs to do this... it always has to be fun for them. Uggie's still enjoying it, but he's getting up there and he's slowing down a little."
The Guardian reports that Uggie will still be available for brief shoots such as adverts, but his days as a leading man are numbered. It is rumoured that Uggie's younger brother Dash is preparing to step into the limelight and take on the big roles after the old man’s retirement.
Before he puts his paws up, there is the little matter of the Golden Collars to get past first. Uggie has received two nods at the inaugural canine performer awards in LA on 13 February, one for The Artist and the other for his role in Water for Elephants. Despite tough opposition, Uggie is tipped to win. ·