Shocking and Heartbreaking: 90 Day Fiance’s Brandon Gibbs Mourns the Loss of Beloved Pet, Leaving Fans in Tears
In the tumultuous world of 90 Day Fiancé, where love, drama, and heartbreak unfold weekly, some moments strike a deeper chord—moments that remind fans that behind the reality TV façade are real emotions, genuine loss, and authentic pain. Recently, Brandon Gibbs, known to many as the lovable pest control technician from Virginia, shared an emotional tribute to his loved one who recently passed away, stirring an outpouring of support, condolences, and reflection among fans worldwide. His heartfelt message about the loss of his and Julia Trubkina’s dog Simba is more than just a tribute; it is a poignant reminder of the bond between humans and their pets—and the grief that can consume us when that bond is severed.
Brandon and Julia’s story has always been a rollercoaster. Meeting through mutual friends, they first connected in Season 8 of 90 Day Fiance, navigating cultural differences, career struggles, and personal dreams. Julia, a vibrant woman from Russia, moved to the United States on a K-1 visa, embarking on a journey filled with love, disagreements, and therapy to resolve their conflicts. Julia’s refusal to consider having children and her independence as a dog mom defined their relationship—yet, through it all, they sought to build a life together. Despite ups and downs, fans speculated that their bond was strong, especially when they faced new challenges head-on in The Last Resort. But nothing could have prepared viewers for the devastating news announced recently: the loss of Simba, a beloved family member who was more than just a pet to Julia — he was her child.
Simba’s passing on May 3, 2025, struck a chord on social media when Brandon took to Instagram to share a carousel of tender photos and memories of their time with Simba. His caption, “It breaks my heart to see a member of our family go,” expressed the profound grief he and Julia were experiencing. Brandon’s words revealed that Simba was far more than just a dog; he was a vital part of their lives—an emotional anchor amid the struggles they’d faced over the years. Julia, who was told she could never have children, raised Simba with the love and care reserved for a biological child. Her grief was palpable, with many fans empathizing deeply as they saw her emotional post, revealing the raw pain of losing a furry family member who had been by her side through thick and thin.
Throughout the ordeal, Brandon and Julia showed remarkable strength and unity. Julia had been overwhelmed by Simba’s health issues, especially when he fell ill from a stroke, weighing heavily on her heart. She and Brandon faced the tough decisions of caregiving, including transporting Simba for treatment and tending to his needs during his fragile recovery. Despite the heartbreak, Brandon’s support shone through—sending Julia on a vacation to help her relax and process her grief. Fans marveled at the resilience of this couple, especially after years of public scrutiny and their journey through therapy to save their marriage. Evidence suggests that, even in the face of tragedy, their bond endures, reaffirming that their love goes beyond the cameras and contractual obligations.
But it’s not just about the pet—it’s about the images of hope and new beginnings that have emerged in the wake of their loss. Simba’s influence extended beyond their personal grief; it inspired Julia’s latest business venture, Kingdom of Dogs, a thriving enterprise dedicated to pet care and training. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to animals reflect her love for Simba and her passion to help others care for their furry friends. Meanwhile, Brandon’s public sharing of his emotions and continued efforts to support Julia demonstrate that, despite the turbulent past, they are still standing side-by-side. Fans have flooded social media with messages of love, mourning, and encouragement—proof that Simba’s legacy and the couple’s resilience continue to inspire many. Most importantly, their story reminds us all that love and loss are universal experiences, regardless of fame or reality-TV fame.
As fans reflect on this heartbreaking chapter, questions linger about whether this loss will lead to a deeper reconciliation or mark the beginning of a new chapter apart. Brandon’s open mourning reveals a vulnerability that many viewers didn’t expect but deeply respect. It’s a reminder that behind the scenes of 90 Day Fiancé are real people with real feelings, and sometimes, those feelings are heartbreakingly intense. Whether public or private, grief is a universal language—one that unites us all in moments of vulnerability. For Brandon and Julia, Simba’s passing might be the end of a chapter