Sad news from the world of famous cats today, as the number of world-renowned felines has officially dropped to zero. Yes, we regret to inform you that the internet legend known as Grumpy Cat has passed away at the age of 7. The sad news was confirmed this morning by Grumpy’s representatives. (We hesitate to use the word “owner,” as anyone who shares a living space with a cat knows who’s really in charge in that scenario.) “We are unimaginably heartbroken to announce the loss of our beloved Grumpy Cat,” began the statement issued this morning from the official Grumpy Cat Twitter account. “Despite care from top professionals, as well as from her very loving family, Grumpy encountered complications from a recent urinary tract infection that unfortunately became too tough for her to overcome,” the statement continued. “She passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, May 14, at home in the arms of her mommy, Tabatha. “Besides being our baby and a cherished member of the family, Grumpy Cat has helped millions of people smile all around the world — even when times were tough. Her spirit will continue to live on through her fans everywhere,” the cat’s family concluded. Grumpy, whose real name was — *respectful facepalm on behalf of the departed* — Tardar Sauce, suffered from feline dwarfism, an extremely rare condition. She first rose to fame when a member of Tabatha’s family posted a pic of her on Reddit. Redditors refused to believe the pics were unretouched; more photos were posted as evidence, and with that, an internet legend was born. Grumpy eventually proved more profitable — and more marketable — than social media icons as Star Wars Kid or Salt Bae. During her short time on this planet, she spawned about a million memes and hobnobbed with countless celebrities . Grumpy appeared at events such as South by Southwest festival in Austin, where fans lined up for hours to meet the famous furball — who was, of course, completely indifferent to their presence. At the height of her fame, Grumpy inspired caffeinated beverages based on her ornery visage, as well as a Christmas movie in which she made her acting debut. In the age of Jimmy Fallon, James Corden, and Ellen DeGeneres, Grumpy offered a welcome alternative to all that bubbly positivity. Few figures have summed up the spirit of the internet as well as Tardar Sauce — and today is sure to be an especially grumpy day on social media. Our thoughts go out to Grumpy’s loved ones at this difficult time. View Slideshow: Celebrities Who Died in 2019: In Memoriam
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Grumpy Cat Dies; Cantakerous Feline & Internet Icon Was 7
