The world of British television is abuzz with excitement as Pete Wicks, the beloved reality star and dog enthusiast, steps into a monumental role that has fans calling him “the perfect replacement” for the late, great Paul O’Grady. Known for his rugged charm on The Only Way Is Essex and his emotional journey on Strictly Come Dancing, Wicks has landed a high-profile TV gig fronting Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, a U&W docuseries in partnership with Dogs Trust. This heartwarming show, which has been greenlit for two more seasons and a Christmas special, showcases Wicks’ passion for canine welfare, drawing inevitable comparisons to O’Grady’s iconic For the Love of Dogs. With fans flooding social media with praise and anticipation, Wicks’ new venture promises to blend heartbreak, happiness, and hope, cementing his place as a worthy successor to O’Grady’s legacy. Let’s dive into the story behind this exciting development, exploring Wicks’ journey, the show’s impact, and why it’s got everyone talking.
A New Chapter for Pete Wicks
Pete Wicks, 37, has long been a fixture on reality TV, captivating audiences with his bad-boy persona and surprising vulnerability. From his dramatic storylines on TOWIE to his heartfelt podcast Staying Relevant with best friend Sam Thompson, Wicks has proven he’s more than just a reality star—he’s a multifaceted entertainer with a knack for connecting with people. His love for dogs, however, has become his defining trait, earning him a devoted following among animal lovers. Wicks’ bond with his own rescue dogs, Eric and Peggy, has been a constant presence on his social media, where he frequently shares their antics and advocates for pet adoption.
The announcement of Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake marks a significant shift in Wicks’ career. Unlike his previous reality TV stints on shows like Celebs Go Dating and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, this docuseries allows him to focus on a cause close to his heart. Filmed at Dogs Trust rehoming centers across the UK, including Basildon, Harefield, Leeds, and Ballymena, the show follows Wicks as he works with rescue dogs, documenting their journeys from rehabilitation to finding forever homes. The first season, which aired in January 2025, was a hit, with viewers praising Wicks’ authenticity and emotional investment. The recent confirmation of two additional seasons and a Christmas special, announced in April 2025, has only heightened the excitement, with fans eager to see more of Wicks’ compassionate side.
Stepping Into Paul O’Grady’s Shoes
Paul O’Grady, who passed away unexpectedly in March 2023 at the age of 67, was a national treasure whose work on For the Love of Dogs transformed the way the UK viewed animal welfare. His heartfelt connection with the dogs at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, coupled with his wit and warmth, made the ITV series a cultural phenomenon. O’Grady’s death left a void in the television landscape, with fans and charities alike wondering who could carry forward his legacy. Enter Pete Wicks, whose For Dogs’ Sake has drawn immediate comparisons to O’Grady’s show, not just for its focus on rescue dogs but for Wicks’ genuine affection for the animals he works with.
Social media platforms like X have been flooded with comments hailing Wicks as “the perfect replacement” for O’Grady. Fans have noted the similarities between the two men: both are charismatic, unpolished, and fiercely dedicated to dogs. One viewer commented, “We need a new ambassador for dogs since the loss of Paul O’Grady, and there’s no one better than our dog-loving Pete.” Another wrote, “You should have taken over Paul’s show, but I’m so glad you have your own. You deserve it.” These sentiments reflect the public’s enthusiasm for Wicks’ new role, with many believing he brings the same raw emotion and authenticity that made O’Grady’s work so special.
While For Dogs’ Sake is distinct from For the Love of Dogs—it’s produced by UKTV and focuses on Dogs Trust rather than Battersea—the parallels are undeniable. Both shows aim to raise awareness about the challenges facing rescue dogs, from abandonment to complex behavioral issues, while celebrating the joy of adoption. Wicks’ hands-on approach, whether he’s comforting a nervous pup or celebrating a successful rehoming, mirrors O’Grady’s ability to make viewers feel invested in every dog’s story. As Helen Nightingale, head of factual entertainment at UKTV, put it, “We’d be barking mad to turn down the opportunity to work with Pete Wicks and witness firsthand his passion for dogs and their welfare.”
The Heart of For Dogs’ Sake
Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake is more than just a feel-good animal show—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that captures the highs and lows of rescue work. Each episode follows Wicks as he meets dogs at various stages of their journey, from those newly arrived at Dogs Trust centers to those ready to meet their new families. The series doesn’t shy away from the tougher realities, such as dogs with traumatic pasts or medical needs, but it also celebrates the resilience and love that define these animals. Wicks has described the show as full of “heartbreak and happiness,” a sentiment echoed by viewers who have been moved to tears by stories of transformation and hope.
The upcoming seasons promise to delve even deeper, with Wicks visiting more Dogs Trust centers and sharing “emotional and inspiring stories,” according to the charity. The Christmas special, in particular, is generating buzz, with speculation that it could feature a festive adoption drive or a heartwarming reunion between dogs and their new owners. Wicks himself has expressed his excitement, saying, “I am delighted to return to Dogs Trust for series two, three, and a Christmas special of For Dogs’ Sake.” His commitment to the project is evident, both on-screen and off, as he continues to serve as a Dogs Trust ambassador, using his platform to advocate for rescue dogs.
Wicks’ Personal Connection to Dogs
What sets Wicks apart in this role is his deeply personal connection to dogs. Unlike some celebrities who take on charity work for publicity, Wicks’ love for canines is well-documented and longstanding. He has spoken candidly about how his dogs have been a source of comfort during difficult times, including the loss of his grandmother Doreen in 2022, which left him feeling “alone.” In a raw interview with Paul C. Brunson on the We Need To Talk podcast, Wicks revealed that his dogs are his “safety net,” providing unconditional love when he needs it most. This vulnerability resonates with viewers, who see him not as a polished presenter but as a relatable figure who genuinely cares.
Wicks’ advocacy extends beyond the show. He regularly uses his social media to promote Dogs Trust campaigns, share adoption stories, and encourage responsible pet ownership. His involvement with the charity predates For Dogs’ Sake, and his role as an ambassador has only strengthened his commitment. Fans have praised his authenticity, with one X post noting, “It’s obvious just how much Pete adores canines through the series.” This sincerity has helped Wicks win over even those who were initially skeptical of his transition from reality TV to documentary-style programming.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Frenzy
The announcement of Wicks’ expanded role in For Dogs’ Sake has sparked a wave of enthusiasm online. On X, fans have shared their excitement with hashtags like #PeteWicksForDogs and #ForDogsSake, posting memes, clips, and heartfelt messages about Wicks’ impact. One user wrote, “Pete Wicks is doing Paul O’Grady proud—his love for dogs shines through in every episode!” Another commented, “This show is everything—Pete’s passion makes it unmissable.” The outpouring of support reflects Wicks’ growing influence as a public figure who uses his platform for good.
Social media has also fueled comparisons to O’Grady, with fans debating whether Wicks could eventually take over For the Love of Dogs or continue carving out his own niche. While some argue that O’Grady’s shoes are impossible to fill, others believe Wicks’ unique blend of grit and heart makes him the ideal candidate to carry the torch. The buzz has only intensified with the news of the Christmas special, with fans speculating about potential guest stars or tear-jerking moments that could make it a holiday highlight.
Challenges and Criticisms
Not everyone has been quick to embrace Wicks as O’Grady’s successor. Some viewers, particularly diehard fans of For the Love of Dogs, have expressed skepticism about whether a reality star can match O’Grady’s gravitas and experience. Wicks’ past, including his high-profile romances and tabloid headlines, has occasionally overshadowed his work with Dogs Trust, with critics questioning whether he’s the right fit for such a serious role. Recent reports of personal drama, such as his split from Maura Higgins and alleged tensions with an MMA fighter, have added fuel to the fire, though Wicks has largely ignored the gossip to focus on his professional commitments.
Wicks has addressed these challenges head-on, acknowledging the pressure of stepping into a role associated with a TV legend. In interviews, he’s emphasized that he’s not trying to replace O’Grady but rather to honor his legacy by shining a light on rescue dogs. His willingness to be vulnerable—whether discussing his mental health struggles or his love for his dogs—has helped win over many detractors, proving that he’s more than capable of handling the responsibility.
The Broader Impact
Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake is more than just a TV show—it’s part of a larger movement to address the UK’s pet adoption crisis. Dogs Trust, the country’s largest dog welfare charity, has reported a surge in abandoned and surrendered dogs in recent years, driven by economic pressures and post-pandemic lifestyle changes. By highlighting the work of rehoming centers, Wicks’ show raises awareness about these issues and encourages viewers to consider adoption over buying from breeders. The series also educates audiences about the importance of training, socialization, and responsible pet ownership, topics that O’Grady championed throughout his career.
The show’s success could have a ripple effect, inspiring other celebrities to use their platforms for advocacy or prompting networks to invest in similar programming. For Wicks, it’s a chance to redefine his public image, moving away from the “bad boy” stereotype to become a respected voice in animal welfare. His collaboration with Dogs Trust has already led to increased donations and inquiries about adoption, a testament to the show’s impact.
What’s Next for Wicks?
With two more seasons and a Christmas special on the horizon, Wicks shows no signs of slowing down. The upcoming episodes are expected to introduce new dogs, explore different aspects of rescue work, and perhaps even feature Wicks tackling challenges like fundraising or policy advocacy. The Christmas special, in particular, is poised to be a standout, potentially drawing a massive audience with its mix of festive cheer and emotional storytelling.
Beyond For Dogs’ Sake, Wicks’ career is at a crossroads. He’s hinted at wanting to move away from reality TV, telling Paul C. Brunson that he’s ready for “more serious programming.” Whether this means more documentaries, a potential takeover of For the Love of Dogs, or an entirely new venture remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Wicks is committed to using his platform for good, particularly when it comes to dogs.
Why Everyone’s Talking
Pete Wicks’ rise as Paul O’Grady’s successor is a story of redemption, passion, and purpose. From reality TV heartthrob to dog welfare champion, Wicks has defied expectations, proving that he’s more than capable of carrying forward a legacy that means so much to so many. For Dogs’ Sake is a love letter to rescue dogs and the people who care for them, and Wicks’ heartfelt performance is at its core. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his journey, this is one TV role that’s impossible to ignore. Tune in, grab some tissues, and prepare to fall in love with Pete Wicks all over again!
