Julia Roberts, one of America’s most recognizable actresses, took to Instagram Friday to share a deeply personal loss — the passing of her 19-year-old dog, Myrtle.
“She was the definition of fierce loyalty,” wrote Roberts’ husband, cinematographer Danny Moder. “Even if she bit the pizza man once.”
That’s the kind of tribute you give not just a pet, but a protector — and for Roberts and her family, Myrtle was exactly that.
Adopted After 9/11, Raised With the Kids
Roberts, 57, adopted Myrtle in 2006 — just two years after she and Moder welcomed twins Hazel and Phinnaeus. Myrtle joined the family before the birth of their youngest son, Henry Daniel, in 2007, and has been part of every milestone since.
Myrtle’s long life — 19 years — speaks volumes about the care she received. But it also says something more: this wasn’t a celebrity accessory. Myrtle was family.
“She was there through thick and thin, barking at strangers and licking tears,” a family friend told us. “Julia used to say Myrtle was her ‘security detail with fur.’”
A Rescue Advocate Who Walks the Walk
Roberts has long been an advocate for rescue dogs. Just last December, she partnered with Be Love Apparel to raise money for Frankie Lola and Friends, a Los Angeles-based dog rescue group.
“Lisa and her team work like crazy to find loving homes for pups in desperate need!” Roberts posted, standing beside a chocolate lab puppy. “What could be better than that?”
In an era where celebrity causes often feel like virtue signaling, Roberts has been consistent. Quietly donating, showing up, and spreading awareness long before animal activism was trendy in Hollywood.
Remembering Myrtle — and the Bond Between Pets and Patriots
For many Americans — especially those who value faith, family, and loyalty — a good dog isn’t just a pet. It’s a partner. Myrtle, by all accounts, was exactly that.
Even when she took a nip at the pizza delivery guy, her family remembered her spirit fondly. “That was just her way of saying ‘stranger danger,’” said Moder with a laugh. “She was always on alert.”
At a time when traditional values are often under attack, Myrtle represents something rare: a faithful guardian, a fierce protector, and a reminder that real love — even from a scrappy old dog — doesn’t come with conditions.
Roberts’ Hollywood career may be filled with red carpets and designer gowns, but at home, she’s just a mom grieving the loss of a beloved family member.
Myrtle Von Mertzenberger, as she was cheekily called, may be gone — but for the Roberts family, she was anything but ordinary.
“A legend,” Julia wrote. “Our Myrtle.”
Rest in peace, girl. You earned it.
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Myrtle as mean spirited as her Master…
I’m so sorry foro your loss. I know your heart is broken, as was mine when my Misty passed at 15 yrs. old. We’ll never forget them.
Dear Julia, My heart goes out to you, so sorry for your loss, our pets are our family members. I’m sure Myrtle lived her best life with you and wanted for nothing, You gave her an amazing life. God Bless You.
Hi, Julia, I have long been a follower of who you are and I know how hard it is to lose a pet who really is a furry son. We lost our beloved Blizzard a couple of years ago and it was as devastating as losing a human son. My heart goes out to you. You are in my prayers.