British comedian Tony Knight, 54, affectionately known as the “Dog Listener,” was tragically killed when a large tree branch fell on him during the “Rock and Cars” music festival in Lavaur, southern France on June 7, 2024. The freak accident also resulted in injuries to four other people.
Known for his captivating charisma and lively stage presence, Knight was enjoying his yearly trip to France, a journey he looked forward to for both relaxation and work. His schedule included a string of comedy shows in the UK and dog training sessions across Europe.
Joanne Allen, the sister of Knight’s long-term partner Hayley Wright, expressed the family and friends’ deep sense of loss on a GoFundMe page set up to help cover funeral costs and other related expenses. Allen described Knight as a happy, fit, and healthy 54-year-old who was enjoying life to the fullest. The page also details the challenges Wright is facing in dealing with the aftermath of the accident as a foreigner, made more complex by Knight being a British citizen with Australian residency living in France.
The tragic event prompted Bernard Carayon, the mayor of Lavaur, to express his condolences. He noted the unusual nature of the incident, saying “Never has such a dramatic event occurred in our city,” reflecting the shock and grief felt throughout the community.
Knight had recently paid off a house in Bouillac, France where he planned to settle down with Wright. They had shared a deep relationship for over 15 years, often traveling together across Europe during the northern summer. Their relationship started when Knight assisted Wright in treating her dog for anxiety.
Allen remembered Knight as a family entertainer who nurtured the friendly competition between England and Australia at family events. She portrayed him as a humorous, charismatic, and passionate individual, cherished by his partner Hayley, his family, and friends.
The untimely death of Knight has led to an outpouring of support and tributes from those who knew him. Known for his gentle and effective dog training methods that avoided the use of force or devices, he had earned global respect. Knight had been a guest on various television and radio broadcasts and was preparing to broaden his professional engagements with forthcoming shows and training sessions.
