NFL legend Tom Brady has revealed that he cloned his late dog, Lua, allowing his family to have a “second chance” with the beloved pet. The seven-time Super Bowl champion worked with Colossal Biosciences, a company he invests in, to create an exact genetic replica of Lua. The cloned dog, named Junie, joined the Brady family in December 2023. Brady, 48, emphasized the deep bond he and his family shared with Lua and highlighted the emotional significance of the cloning process. This marks one of the most high-profile cases of celebrity pet cloning in recent years.
Brady’s Commitment to Lua
Brady adopted Lua during his marriage to supermodel Gisele Bündchen, which ended in 2022. Lua frequently appeared on the couple’s social media accounts and even starred alongside Brady in a 2014 Ugg Australia commercial. Following Lua’s death, Brady arranged for a blood sample to be collected from the dog before she passed away. Using this sample, Colossal Biosciences was able to clone Lua, resulting in Junie, who bears a striking resemblance to the original pet.
Colossal Biosciences recently announced the acquisition of Viagen Pets and Equine, the company behind other celebrity pet clones, including Barbra Streisand’s Samantha and Paris Hilton’s Diamond Baby. Brady’s involvement demonstrates his interest in both innovative biotechnology and the personal connection families have with pets.
Brady Speaks on Cloning and Family Bonds
“I love my animals. They mean the world to me and my family,” Brady told People, noting that the cloning technology gave them “a second chance with a clone of our beloved dog.” He added that he is “excited how Colossal and Viagen’s technology together can help families losing their beloved pets.”
Experts in animal cloning and genetics note that Brady’s public disclosure could help raise awareness about emerging biotechnology for companion animals. While still rare, celebrity interest in pet cloning is bringing the practice into mainstream discussion, showing the emotional and scientific possibilities behind the technology.
Impact Beyond the NFL
While the cloning of Lua does not directly affect Brady’s NFL career or statistics, it highlights his interest in longevity, both personally and in the pets he loves. The announcement also brings attention to Colossal Biosciences’ broader initiatives, including “de-extinction” projects aimed at reviving species like the dire wolf and the dodo bird. Brady’s public association with these technologies aligns him with innovative scientific ventures, reflecting a growing trend of athletes leveraging their platform for scientific and technological projects.
The news may influence public perception of Brady, emphasizing his family-focused and technology-forward image beyond the football field. Fans and followers have responded positively, noting the emotional value of maintaining a connection with a pet through cloning.
What’s Next for Brady and Colossal
Looking ahead, fans can expect further updates regarding Brady’s involvement with Colossal Biosciences and potential projects related to pet cloning or biotechnology. The acquisition of Viagen Pets may result in additional high-profile collaborations or publicized cloning projects. For the Brady family, Junie will likely continue appearing in social media updates, maintaining the legacy of Lua and showcasing the emotional impact of cloning for families.
Sources
People
National Enquirer
Colossal Biosciences Official Website
ESPN
