Beatrice, Modern Family's Beloved French Bulldog, Has Died

Beatrice, the beloved French bulldog who portrayed Stella Pritchett on Modern Family for several seasons, has died.

In a statement, Modern Family co-creator Steve Levitan called Beatrice a "lovable presence" on the set of the long-running ABC sitcom.

"While she was occasionally a major diva who made unreasonable demands and often questioned her 'motivation,' most of the time Beatrice was a delightful and lovable presence on the Modern Family set," Levitan said. "She brought smiles wherever she went and was completely convincing in her role as a dog. We will all miss that adorable scrunched-up face. Enjoy doggie heaven, sweet Beatrice/Stella."

Beatrice's agency, Good Dog Animals, also released a statement mourning her and thanking fans for their support. "It is with our deepest regrets to inform you all that we have lost our beloved Beatrice," the statement read. "Last Saturday she was rushed to the emergency room. She had fluid around her heart which was compressing down. The cardiologist went to remove the fluid and she went into cardiac arrest. They started CPR but they were not able to revive her. We are heart broken and devastated! It was way too soon, but happy in knowing how many lives she has affected. We are so grateful to know that she has so many fans that embraced her with such love and support!! She will be with us forever! She is the Modern Dog."

The Blast first reported the news on Sunday, noting that Beatrice's death came after the ABC comedy wrapped production on the series finale.

Stella was first introduced in Season 2's "Good Cop Bad Dog" as the pet of a budding dog trainer named Guillermo (portrayed by Lin-Manuel Miranda) who failed in his effort to devise a treat training system and decided to give the animal away. Although it was initially Gloria's (Sofia Vergara) idea to let Stella stay, it was Jay (Ed O'Neill) who ultimately became attached to the dog and made her a full-fledged member of the family. At the outset, Stella was portrayed by another French bulldog named Brigitte, but Beatrice, Brigitte's understudy, took over the role in 2012.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who portrays Mitchell Pritchett, posted a photo tribute of himself and husband Justin Mikita alongside Beatrice, writing, "Rest In Peace sweet Beatrice. We love you so much."

According to her agency, Good Dog Animals, Beatrice has also appeared in series like Workaholics, Future Man, The Kominsky Method, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

Modern Family airs on Wednesdays at 9/8c on ABC.