College Football Analyst Kirk Herbstreit Gets Choked Up on Live TV While Honoring His Deceased Service Dog Ben

### A Touching Goodbye: Kirk Herbstreit Pays Tribute to His Beloved Service Dog, Ben

In 2023, ESPN’s college football coverage introduced an unanticipated yet heartwarming figure—Ben, a cherished golden retriever who accompanied Kirk Herbstreit, the renowned broadcaster and football analyst, on his journeys across the nation. Although Herbstreit was already well-known among football enthusiasts, the charming canine at his side quickly won the affection of millions, whether they were cheering from the stands or tuning in from their living rooms. Tragically, after a brief but impactful period on the road, Ben recently passed away from cancer, prompting an outpouring of emotion, including tears from Herbstreit himself.

#### Travel Companionship
Herbstreit and Ben enjoyed a decade-long companionship, but they only began traveling together in the past year, as Herbstreit’s demanding job led him to be away from home more frequently. In a whirlwind of hotel stays, stadiums, and broadcasts, Ben emerged as a source of comfort for Herbstreit, bringing a sense of stability and connection in an often lonely environment. As viewers on ESPN witnessed, Ben radiated joy and calm wherever he was present.

Often spotted wagging his tail or peacefully resting beside Herbstreit during game coverage, Ben became known as far more than just a celebrity pet—he symbolized serenity and happiness. His warm nature made him not only Herbstreit’s emotional support animal but also a kind of mascot for fans. Indeed, his reputation soared to such heights that during the Rose Bowl, he was humorously dubbed the “Chief Happiness Officer,” reflecting his charm and uplifting spirit. Everyone who encountered Ben felt the warmth of his kindness, as he effortlessly wagged his tail and nuzzled against strangers, making them feel like part of the family.

#### A Heart-Wrenching Farewell
Regrettably, Ben’s golden coat and cheerful energy faded away all too quickly. On November 7, 2023, Herbstreit conveyed the heartbreaking news through social media—his loyal friend had lost his battle with cancer. In a heartfelt tribute shared across ESPN and social media platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), Herbstreit struggled to contain his emotions while honoring the dog who had impacted numerous lives.

“This is one of the toughest conversations to have,” Herbstreit revealed during a live broadcast when the tribute was introduced. He went on to express how Ben had kept him grounded during his hectic travel schedule. “His warm presence was my connection to home, transforming my travels from mere wandering into a sense of belonging,” Herbstreit conveyed with emotion.

The tribute video, crafted by ESPN’s *College GameDay*, highlighted the unique connection that Ben and the analyst nurtured throughout their travels. His co-anchors reminisced about how significant Ben had become to them as well, praising how the golden retriever effortlessly instilled a sense of love and comfort in those around him. As the tribute moved many in the broadcast team to tears, viewers witnessed not only a personal farewell from Herbstreit but also a shared mourning for a dog who held a special place in the hearts of all college football fans.

#### Responses and Tributes from Fans
Emotional tributes flooded in from fans nationwide, celebrating how Ben had brightened their lives and how his presence alongside Herbstreit provided solace in the often high-pressure world of sports. Fans took to social media to post touching messages and artwork of Ben, emphasizing how he united college football enthusiasts globally with his undeniable allure. One fan account affectionately referred to him as “America’s best friend,” a sentiment shared by many.

One of the most poignant moments occurred when Herbstreit, through tears, admitted, “The only flaw in dogs as a species is that they don’t live long enough.” He concluded the emotional broadcast by affirming, “Yet the warmth they provide us never fades, and neither will Ben. This man’s best friend became America’s best friend.”

#### The Significance of Emotional Support Animals
While Ben’s time in the spotlight may have been unexpected, his role as an emotional support animal was undeniably impactful. Research has consistently demonstrated the profound effects pets, particularly dogs, can have on mental health, alleviating stress, anxiety, and even chronic feelings of loneliness. Ben’s companionship during Herbstreit’s period of extensive travel illustrated just how essential pets can be to our daily emotional health. His affectionate nature served as a reminder of the unconditional love that dogs offer, establishing him not only as a cherished symbol for football fans but also as a representation of the bond between humans and animals.

#### Fostering Community Connections
Ben’s narrative resonated beyond dog owners; it brought together communities—both online and offline, within stadiums and social media circles. His authentic affection for everyone, regardless of their identity, reminded us of the simple yet profound connections animals nurture among people. Through fan art, tribute posts, and heartfelt expressions of support, Ben’s legacy fostered a sense of family among fans who could connect over their shared love for him.