Reese Witherspoon revealed with a "sad heart" that Bruiser Woods, the tiny Chihuahua that starred in the films had died on Thursday. Also known as Moonie, the pooch was a beloved companion to Reese's character Elle Woods in the romantic comedy films, and the actress said he was "very loved".

The 39-year-old shared a picture of herself and her canine companion together on Instagram, adding the caption: "With a sad heart, I have to let all the #LegallyBlonde fans know that Bruiser Woods (also known as Moonie) passed away yesterday. He was a sweet little Chihuahua who was very loved.

Reese Witherspoon paid tribute to the Chihuahua on Instagram

"I will never forget all the days we spent together… I'm sure his tail is wagging in the sky. Sending love to his trainer, the wonderful @tailsticks #RIPBruiser."

The dog's trainer Sue Chips also paid tribute on Instagram by sharing a photo of the moment he joined Reese for the unveiling of her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

"On this day – a day of "throwbacks" I give you one of the greatest little dogs… "Moonie" of fame. I'm sad to say that this morning in Los Angeles he left us," she wrote. "He was a whopping 18 years old. I remember the day I brought him home as a puppy."

The dog's trainer also shared a sweet tribute to "one of the greatest little dogs"

Both and its sequel were worldwide hits, and there has since been talk of revisiting the character in another sequel – something Reese wouldn't rule out.

Addressing the subject on in October, Reese said: "A lot of writers over the years have come up with good ideas for it. I actually think it's kind of great right now, because we're talking about women in politics and how important that is to get more women. And I think it would be kind of cool to have her be a Supreme Court justice, president, I mean…"

She added: "I think we're ready to see Elle and what she's up to lately. That said, I don't know. Call [the movie studio] MGM."

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