Christopher Ciccone, the younger brother of pop icon Madonna, passed away, at the age of 63 after battling cancer. Christopher had a profound influence on Madonna’s career, working closely with her during her early days. He started as a backup dancer and later became her art director, most notably for her Blond Ambition World Tour (1990) and The Girlie Show (1993). He was also a production designer and interior designer, expanding his career beyond his association with his famous sister.
Born in 1960, Christopher and Madonna shared a complicated yet deep bond. Despite their professional and personal ups and downs, including public disagreements, their connection remained significant throughout their lives. Christopher was one of the key figures behind the scenes of Madonna’s ascent to superstardom, contributing to her visual style and performances. He was also known for his candid 2008 memoir, “Life with My Sister Madonna,” where he shared details of their complicated relationship and experiences growing up together.
Christopher’s death follows the passing of their stepmother, Joan Gustafson Ciccone, who also died from cancer in September 2024, and their eldest brother, Anthony Ciccone, who passed away in 2022. He is survived by his husband, Ray Thacker, and his siblings, including Madonna. His passing has left a deep void in the Ciccone family, especially given the close familial losses in recent years.
Despite their differences, Madonna paid tribute to her brother following his death, expressing that she believed he was “dancing somewhere,” a touching acknowledgment of their shared past in the arts. Christopher’s contributions to the creative world, particularly through his work with Madonna, have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Dog left heartbroken after being surrendered to shelter after 2 years: “He doesn’t understand where his person went”
It’s always heartbreaking when dogs are surrendered to shelters by their owners. These dogs are upended from the only home they’ve never known, confused about why they’re in these new surroundings without their familiar family.
That’s what one video shows, after a dog was surrendered by his family after 2 years — but beneath the heartbreak, there is hope.
Last month, a dog named Carlton was surrendered to Special Pals animal shelter in Houston, Texas, by the owners he had been with for 2 years.
Shelter director Becky French posted a video of the 2-year-old mixed breed dog on TikTok, showing Carlton’s heartbreak and confusion in his first day at the shelter.
“He doesn’t understand where his person went,” Becky wrote. “He kept returning to the spot his owner sat with him before leaving.”
The video also shows the dog refusing to take a treat or even look at the staff. he is scared. Confused,” Becky wrote. “This is what your dog goes through when they go back to a shelter.”
Despite the heartbreak, Becky wrote that they were able to “get some happy moments” out of the surrendered dog, and hope that he finds a new forever home soon.
“Don’t worry buddy. You are safe and will find a new home someday.”
It’s always a rough transition, but there are signs that Carlton — now known as “Posty” is acclimating well to shelter life. In a follow-up video, Becky said that they learned he is “obsessed with balls,” and he can be seen happily playing with shelter staff.
Despite the heartbreak he went through, he has improved and is “a happy boy now,” Becky wrote.
He is still up for adoption and waiting for a home — if you are interested in adopting, you can reach out to Special Pals via their adoption page.
Becky also shared an Amazon wish list for anyone who wants to buy an item for Carlton/Posty, which includes many of his favorite balls.
It’s heartbreaking to see this sweet dog surrendered to the shelter, suddenly losing the only home he’s ever known, but we hope that Carlton/Posty finds a great new home soon.
Please share this story to spread the word about this sweet dog!
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