Movie star racehorse dies aged 24 after becoming instant ‘fan favourite’ with role in Oscar-nominated film
A MOVIE star racehorse who had the main role in an Oscar-nominated film has died aged 24.
Popcorn Deelites played legendary American champion Seabiscuit in the movie of the same name in 2003.
Featuring Tobey Maguire, the flick told the story of the unexpected superstar success of Seabiscuit and was nominated for a total of seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Directed by Gary Moss and also featuring Jeff Bridges and William H Macy, the film made £110million at the box office.
Old Friends Equine retirement announced Popcorn Deelites passed as a result of complications from colic.
A statement read: “We are deeply saddened to report that Seabiscuit movie star POPCORN DEELITES (24) has died.
“A 17-year OF resident, his paddock-mate for all of those years, Special Ring, is devastated, as are we. Pops will always be a shining star in our hearts.
“Pops, a blood-bay Seabiscuit lookalike, appeared in numerous scenes throughout the film, including the thrilling match race against Triple Crown winner War Admiral.”
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Social media was flooded with tributes for the horse, who returned to racing after appearing in the film.
One said: “A beautiful animal. As a star in that wonderful movie Seabiscuit he has a special place in both thoroughbred and cinematic history.”
Another posted: “RIP Popcorn Delites! Now you can run with Seabiscuit himself.”
A fellow Twitter user wrote: “So sorry to hear. Condolences to everyone at the farm. Please take solace knowing that he had a great retirement with you.”
While one said: “What a punch in the gut.”
Old Friends founder Michael Blowen said: “Fans adored him and he adored the fans.
“He will be sorely missed here on the farm but I’m sure that his old pal and paddock mate, Special Ring, will miss him the most.”
Seabiscuit is a legendary figure in racing, dominating the sport in the States in the late 1930s.
Named after a type of cracker eaten by sailors, he was voted American Horse of the Year in 1938 despite his small stature.
He was undersized, ‘knobby-kneed’ and prone to sleeping for ages.
But he turned into a monster on the track earning just under £325,000 from his 33 wins.