Pete Wicks, the charismatic reality TV star turned dog welfare advocate, has found himself at the center of a firestorm following a candid confession that he “prefers dogs to people” while promoting his new U&W docuseries, Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake. The 37-year-old, known for his rugged charm on The Only Way Is Essex and his emotional journey on Strictly Come Dancing, broke down in tears while filming the heart-wrenching series, which follows the lives of rescue dogs at Dogs Trust rehoming centers across the UK. His raw vulnerability and controversial statement have sparked heated debate, with some praising his honesty and others slamming him for alienating fans. As For Dogs’ Sake gains traction, with two more seasons and a Christmas special confirmed, Wicks’ emotional journey and the plight of rescue dogs are captivating audiences. Let’s dive into the controversy, the tears, and the powerful stories behind this polarizing yet poignant documentary, exploring why it’s become a must-watch phenomenon.
The Controversial Confession
Pete Wicks has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, but his recent comment in a Radio Times interview—that he “prefers dogs to people”—has landed him in hot water. The statement, made ahead of the January 2025 premiere of Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, was meant to highlight his deep connection to dogs, particularly his rescue French bulldogs, Eric and Peggy. However, some viewers took offense, interpreting the remark as dismissive or misanthropic. Social media platforms like X erupted with reactions, with critics accusing Wicks of being “out of touch” or “ungrateful” to the fans who’ve supported his career. One X post read, “Pete Wicks saying he prefers dogs to people is a slap in the face to his audience. Not cool.”
Yet, for every critic, there’s a defender. Many fans argue that Wicks’ comment was taken out of context, reflecting his passion for animal welfare rather than a genuine disdain for humanity. Supporters point to his long history of advocating for rescue dogs, noting that his emotional investment in For Dogs’ Sake proves his heart is in the right place. “Pete’s just being real,” one fan wrote on X. “He’s spent years saving dogs—let him love them more than people if he wants!” The controversy has only amplified interest in the docuseries, with viewers eager to see the context behind Wicks’ tears and the stories that moved him so deeply.
Tears on Set: The Emotional Weight of For Dogs’ Sake
At the heart of the drama is Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, a four-part documentary that premiered on January 7, 2025, and has already been renewed for two additional seasons and a Christmas special. Filmed at Dogs Trust centers in Basildon, Harefield, Leeds, and Ballymena, the series follows Wicks as he works hands-on with rescue dogs, from those recovering from abuse to those preparing for adoption. The show doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges: an estimated 100,000 dogs are in UK rescue centers, and only one in five people who get a dog choose a rescue. Wicks’ mission is to shine a light on these animals’ resilience and the tireless work of Dogs Trust staff.
The emotional toll of the project was evident from the start. Wicks admitted to Radio Times that he “couldn’t stop crying” while filming, overwhelmed by the dogs’ stories of survival and the heartbreak of those still waiting for homes. One particularly moving moment, teased in promotional materials, shows Wicks comforting a nervous rescue dog, his voice cracking as he reflects on its traumatic past. “It’s hard not to get attached,” he told interviewers, describing how each dog’s journey felt personal to him. His vulnerability has resonated with viewers, many of whom have shared their own tearful reactions on social media. “Pete’s tears broke me,” one X user posted. “This show is raw and real.”
Wicks’ Personal Connection to Rescue Dogs
Wicks’ passion for dogs is no publicity stunt—it’s a deeply personal commitment rooted in his own life. He rescued his French bulldog Eric from Dogs Trust in Basildon in 2016 and later adopted Peggy, a one-eyed French bulldog who’s become a social media star. Wicks has often spoken about how his dogs have been his lifeline, particularly during tough times like the loss of his grandmother Doreen in 2022. “They’re my safety net,” he revealed in a 2024 podcast interview, explaining how Eric and Peggy’s unconditional love helped him through grief and self-doubt. This connection fuels his work on For Dogs’ Sake, where he channels his empathy into advocating for dogs who’ve been abandoned or abused.
His role as a Dogs Trust ambassador predates the documentary, and his social media is filled with posts promoting adoption and responsible pet ownership. Fans have praised his authenticity, with one X post noting, “Pete’s love for dogs isn’t fake—you can see it in every episode.” This sincerity has helped him weather the backlash over his “dogs over people” comment, as supporters argue that his actions speak louder than his words. By highlighting the stories of individual dogs—like a shy terrier who finds confidence or a senior dog who finally gets a home—Wicks is making a tangible impact, with Dogs Trust reporting increased adoption inquiries since the show’s premiere.
The Backlash and Public Divide
While Wicks’ tears and dedication have won over many, the controversy over his comment has exposed a divide among viewers. Critics argue that his statement was tone-deaf, especially given his reliance on public support for his TV career. Some have pointed to his reality TV past—marked by high-profile romances and tabloid drama—as evidence that he’s more calculated than he seems. Recent headlines about his split from Maura Higgins and alleged nightclub altercations haven’t helped, fueling perceptions that Wicks is more interested in fame than genuine advocacy.
Defenders, however, see the backlash as overblown. They argue that Wicks’ comment was a lighthearted expression of his love for dogs, not a literal rejection of people. “He’s spent months crying over rescue dogs—give him a break!” one fan tweeted. Others have praised his willingness to show vulnerability, a rare trait in a reality star known for his tough-guy image. The debate has sparked broader conversations about celebrity authenticity and the pressures of public life, with Wicks emerging as a polarizing yet compelling figure.
Comparisons to Paul O’Grady
The controversy hasn’t overshadowed the inevitable comparisons to Paul O’Grady, whose For the Love of Dogs set the gold standard for animal welfare programming. O’Grady, who died in 2023, was beloved for his warmth and wit, and his work with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home inspired countless adoptions. Wicks’ For Dogs’ Sake has drawn parallels for its focus on rescue dogs and its emotional storytelling, with fans calling him a “worthy successor.” One X post read, “Pete Wicks is carrying Paul O’Grady’s torch—his heart is all in for the dogs.”
However, some O’Grady fans have pushed back, arguing that Wicks lacks the gravitas and experience to fill such a role. “Paul was one of a kind,” one critic wrote. “Pete’s trying, but it’s not the same.” Wicks has addressed these comparisons with humility, insisting he’s not trying to replace O’Grady but rather to honor his legacy in his own way. His focus on Dogs Trust, rather than Battersea, and his raw, unpolished style distinguish For Dogs’ Sake as a unique contribution to the genre, even as it pays homage to O’Grady’s impact.
The Impact of For Dogs’ Sake
Beyond the headlines, For Dogs’ Sake is making a real difference. The show has brought attention to the UK’s rescue dog crisis, with Dogs Trust highlighting the economic and post-pandemic factors driving record numbers of abandoned pets. By showcasing the rehabilitation process—training, medical care, and emotional healing—Wicks is educating viewers about the realities of adoption. The series also celebrates success stories, like dogs finding loving homes, which have inspired viewers to get involved. “I’m adopting because of Pete’s show,” one fan shared on X, reflecting the series’ tangible impact.
The Christmas special, set to air in December 2025, is expected to amplify this message, possibly featuring a festive adoption drive or a reunion with dogs from season one. The additional seasons will explore new Dogs Trust centers and introduce fresh stories, ensuring that Wicks’ platform continues to grow. For Dogs Trust, the partnership with Wicks is a game-changer, bringing their mission to a younger, broader audience.
Wicks’ Redemption Arc
For Wicks, For Dogs’ Sake is more than a TV project—it’s a chance to redefine himself. After years of being pigeonholed as a reality TV bad boy, he’s embracing a role that showcases his compassion and depth. The tears he shed on set weren’t just for the dogs but for his own journey, from a grieving grandson to a public figure with a purpose. “I’ve never felt more myself than doing this,” he told interviewers, hinting at a shift away from reality TV toward more meaningful work.
The backlash over his comment has tested his resilience, but Wicks has stayed focused, letting his actions speak for themselves. His commitment to Dogs Trust, coupled with his emotional openness, has won over many skeptics, positioning him as a new kind of celebrity—one who’s unafraid to cry, to care, and to stand by his beliefs, even when they spark controversy.
Why Everyone’s Talking
Pete Wicks’ For Dogs’ Sake is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, blending raw vulnerability with a powerful message about rescue dogs. His “dogs over people” confession may have sparked backlash, but it’s also ignited a conversation about authenticity, advocacy, and the bonds we share with animals. Whether you’re Team Pete or among his critics, there’s no denying the impact of his tears and the stories he’s bringing to light. As For Dogs’ Sake continues to captivate audiences, Wicks is proving that sometimes, the most controversial voices are the ones worth listening to. Tune in and see for yourself—this is one documentary that’s changing hearts and minds.
