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PARIS (AP) — Before his passing this week, the legendary French actor Alain Delon expressed a wish to be buried alongside his cherished Belgian Malinois, Loubo. Thankfully for animal lovers across France, Loubo will continue to live on.

Delon, who gained international fame as both an actor and producer, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88. His burial is scheduled for this Saturday at his family estate in Douchy, located south of Paris.

In a 2018 interview with Paris Match, Delon revealed his deep bond with Loubo, whom he adopted in 2014. He stated, “I’ve had 50 dogs in my life, but I have a particular relationship with this one. If I die before him, I’ll ask the veterinarian for us to leave together… I’d prefer that to knowing he would suffer alone on my grave.”

Following Delon’s passing, concerns arose regarding Loubo’s future. Animal rights activists and caring citizens voiced their worries, prompting France’s Society for the Protection of Animals to step in and offer to find Loubo a new home.

An official from the Brigitte Bardot Foundation—a well-known animal rights organization founded by the iconic French actress who had a close friendship with Delon—reported that many of the foundation’s members reached out to express their concerns for Loubo.

Delon’s Family’s Decision

The official communicated with Delon’s family, who assured him that the question of Loubo’s fate was never in doubt. They stated, “He has a home in Douchy, and will live there.” The official requested anonymity, as they were not authorized to speak publicly on behalf of the Foundation.

The official also noted that Delon was a long-time supporter of the foundation and had contributed to fundraising efforts for its causes.

Delon’s family has not publicly commented on Loubo’s situation.

As one of France’s most celebrated leading men, Delon was not only an esteemed film star but also a producer, and in his later years, he appeared in plays and television movies.