After Ben’s Death, Kirk Herbstreit’s Dog Peter Has Officially Stepped in as a Canine College GameDay Host

Earlier this month, ESPN host Kirk Herbstreit announced the sad news that his 10-year-old service dog, Ben, had passed away after battling cancer. Known by the title “Chief Happiness Officer of Football,” Ben was beloved by countless college football fans due to his frequent heartwarming appearances alongside his dad while he hosts College GameDay.

But what many fans didn’t know was that Herbstreit has three other Golden Retrievers, all from the same breeder as Ben, named Theo, Mitch, and Peter. He got Theo in 2017, Mitch in 2020, and they signed the rookie Peter just last year. Coach Ben is in front and clearly needs to take five after dealing with this trio.

Then last week, Herbstreit brought the one-year-old rookie Peter to try out for Ben’s position as a canine cohost.

After training under Ben and with his two bros, it looks like Peter’s ready for the spotlight!

Peter made a soft launch back on November 9th, where he got acquainted with his new office.

He also gave his first interview with Uga, University of Georgia’s Bulldog mascot.

Then the pair gave cohosting a shot.

In case you missed it, you can watch Herbstreit’s incredibly touching tribute to Ben (but have some tissues ready)