Introducing After Life and Tony’s Dog
After Life is a dark British comedy-drama streaming television series created, written, produced by and starring Ricky Gervais. It premiered on Netflix in March 2019. The show focuses on Tony (played by Gervais), whose life is turned upside down after his wife dies from breast cancer. Tony contemplates suicide, but instead decides to live long enough to punish the world for his wife’s death by saying and doing whatever he wants.
One of the most beloved aspects of the show is Tony’s loyal German Shepherd dog. The dog’s name is never mentioned in the show, but behind the scenes he is named Anti. Anti was adopted by Tony after his wife’s death and becomes Tony’s closest companion. Throughout the show, Tony is frequently seen walking and spending time with Anti, often confiding in the dog. Their close bond highlights Tony’s isolation and grief, while also showcasing the unconditional love and comfort the dog provides amidst Tony’s struggles.
Tony’s Dog is a German Shepherd
Tony’s dog Brandy on the show After Life is a German Shepherd, specifically an all-black variety of the breed. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds and are known for being intelligent, loyal, and hardworking. They were originally bred in Germany in the late 1800s to herd and guard sheep.
According to an article on BBC News (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-60217346), the dog who plays Brandy is named Anti and belongs toUK-based animal trainers and owners Liz and Andrew McMillan. Anti is described as an unusual all-black German Shepherd who perfectly fits the role of Tony’s loyal companion.
Some Background on German Shepherds
The German Shepherd breed originated in Germany in the late 1800s. Captain Max von Stephanitz, considered the father of the breed, aimed to create an intelligent, loyal, and obedient herding dog. His early breeding experiments focused on intelligence, strength, and temperament over appearance. He created the name “German Shepherd Dog” and founded the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde, or SV, the first club for the breed1.
The German Shepherd breed rose rapidly in popularity due to their intelligence, trainability, and versatility. They proved excellent as guard dogs, police dogs, war dogs, rescue dogs, guide dogs, and show dogs. Their herding instincts and protective nature made them a natural fit for many working roles2.
German Shepherds typically have a double coat which protects them in all weather conditions. Their long muzzle, erect ears, and bushy tail give them a distinctive, wolf-like appearance. They are large dogs, typically weighing 50-90 pounds. Loyalty and confidence are hallmark traits of the breed. Proper socialization and training are essential to channel their energy and intelligence positively3.
Why Tony Chose a German Shepherd
Tony chose a German Shepherd dog for his loyal companion in After Life because the breed is known for their unwavering loyalty and devotion to their owners. As the American Kennel Club notes, “Most owners characterize their German Shepherd Dog by saying they purchased it because the dog was vibrant, irrepressible, high-energy, and strong” (source). Tony was drawn to these qualities as he struggled with grief and depression after losing his wife.
German Shepherds are also highly intelligent, ranking as the third smartest dog breed according to Stanley Coren’s book The Intelligence of Dogs. Their trainability made a German Shepherd a good fit for Tony’s need for companionship and responsibility as he coped with his loss. The breed is eager to please their owners and responsive to training, forging a close bond.
With their loyal, smart, and devoted temperament, German Shepherds like Tony’s dog are ideal for providing steadfast friendship and responsibility. As Tony navigated intense grief, his German Shepherd stayed faithfully by his side, exemplifying the breed’s reputation as outstanding companions.
Tony’s Bond with His Dog
Tony’s dog, Brandy, played a central role in helping him cope with overwhelming grief and depression after the death of his wife. The German Shepherd was Tony’s loyal companion and provided him with unconditional love and emotional support as he struggled to find meaning in life without his soulmate.
In the show, Brandy is frequently shown providing comfort to Tony during his lowest moments. According to Ricky Gervais in an interview, “What she is to Tony, is what she is to us in real life.” The dog’s unwavering presence gave Tony a sense of purpose and stopped him from completely withdrawing into isolation.
Some of the most emotional scenes in After Life involve Brandy resting her head on Tony’s lap as he grapples with suicidal thoughts. The depth of their bond is evident in the way Tony tenderly cares for Brandy and values her over all else. Their friendship formed an emotional center to the show that resonated deeply with viewers.
The Dog’s Significance in the Show
Tony’s dog Brandy plays an integral role in After Life and her presence is very significant to the show’s storyline. As Tony navigates life after the death of his wife Lisa, Brandy becomes his companion and source of unconditional love during his darkest moments.
In the first season, Brandy is introduced as the dog Tony inherited from his late father. She keeps Tony company in his empty house and is always by his side through his deep depression and frequent thoughts of suicide. Brandy gives Tony a reason to live – he cares for her deeply and feels responsible for her wellbeing. Their strong bond helps motivate Tony to carry on despite his grief.
As the show progresses, Brandy continues to be Tony’s main source of comfort. She senses when he is struggling emotionally and is there to offer support. Brandy gives Tony purpose in simple day-to-day moments like waking up and taking her for walks. Her presence keeps Tony anchored amidst his pain.
Without Brandy, Tony would have succumbed to his grief much sooner. She gives him the will to keep going. Their special connection illustrates the healing power of animals and their ability to provide unconditional love during difficult times. Brandy saves Tony’s life in many ways, making her an essential character in After Life.
Behind the Scenes with Anti the Dog
The dog who plays Tony’s loyal companion Brandy in After Life is actually named Anti and is owned by animal trainer Mark Evans. According to reports, Anti was cast for the role after impressing creators with her intelligence and ability to follow commands.
In reality, two German Shepherd dogs play Brandy in the show – Anti and her daughter Phoebe. Anti handles the more complex scenes while Phoebe fills in for basic actions like walking. This allows the dogs to take breaks and ensures animal welfare laws are followed on set. Trainers also use positive reinforcement methods to get the dogs to act for scenes in the show.
The dogs were already trained when they were cast but still required additional preparation to portray Brandy. This included getting used to Ricky Gervais so that Anti would look to him as her owner Tony in the show. The training paid off as the two clearly share an adorable bond both on and off screen.
Appearances of the Dog in the Show
Tony’s dog, Brandy, appears frequently throughout After Life and has many memorable scenes. The German Shepherd is Tony’s closest companion as he grieves the loss of his wife and contemplates ending his own life. Brandy provides unconditional love and emotional support during Tony’s darkest moments.
In season 1, Brandy is introduced in the first episode as Tony’s devoted dog who refuses to leave his side. One of Brandy’s most notable scenes is when Tony attempts to push the dog away, yelling at her to “piss off.” Brandy whimpers but remains loyally by Tony’s side, capturing hearts with her empathy. As described by Screenrant, “It’s a touching moment that highlights just how much Tony needs Brandy whether he knows it or not” (https://screenrant.com/after-life-brandy-dog-season-1-best-scenes/).
In another memorable scene, Brandy saves Tony from a suicide attempt by distracting him long enough for Postman Pat to intervene. Brandy continues providing comfort and comedic relief throughout season 1 during Tony’s highs and lows.
In season 2, Brandy maintains her role as Tony’s closest companion. She appears in heartwarming scenes offering Tony solace and friendship amidst his ongoing grief and depression. Brandy exemplifies the profound bonds between humans and dogs.
Fan Reactions to Tony’s Dog
Tony’s dog Brandy has become a fan favorite character on After Life. Viewers have expressed an outpouring of love for the charming German Shepherd both during and after each season’s release.
Fans cite Brandy as being a source of emotional support not only for Tony, but also for themselves while watching the show. The unconditional love and loyalty displayed by Brandy offers a touching respite from the show’s heavier themes. As one fan stated on Reddit, “That dog gives me a reason to keep watching sometimes. The way Tony lights up around him is so heartwarming.”
Many viewers strongly resonated with the depth of friendship depicted between Tony and Brandy. One audience member commented, “Their relationship reminds us that pets can be such a huge part of getting us through tough times” (Source). Another fan tweeted, “That dog deserves an Emmy for being the goodest boy” (Source)
The audience response to Brandy highlights how impactful the character has become in After Life. The writers struck a chord by showcasing the remarkable loyalty and comfort pets can provide.
The Legacy of Tony’s Dog
Tony’s dog Brandy had a lasting impact both in the show After Life and with viewers. Though Brandy is a fictional character, the bond between Tony and his loyal companion has resonated strongly with audiences. As one article points out, “In actuality, everyone rallies behind Tony because they know how truly depressed he is but Tony is too stubborn to take their help or their kindness. The only one who can truly get through to him is Brandy” (https://screenrant.com/after-life-brandy-dog-season-1-best-scenes/). The relationship between man and dog shows the powerful support that pets can provide during difficult times.
Brandy’s steady, nonjudgemental companionship provides lessons on unconditional love. She sticks by Tony through his darkest moments and lowest points. As creator Ricky Gervais confirmed, “The dog does not die. Never.” This reassurance reflects the enduring loyalty a dog can show, which many viewers found touching.
Overall, Brandy demonstrated the joy, comfort, and meaning pets can add to our lives. Her role modeled the profound connection humans can forge with their animal companions. Brandy left a legacy that will stay with After Life fans and highlighted the special gifts dogs bring to the world.