Good Boy Forever: Honoring Diesel's Legacy & The New Rex Carrying His Torch

If you've felt that familiar lump in your throat watching Season 8, you're not alone. The German Shepherd bounding alongside Detective Mark Hudson might look like Rex—but the heart behind those soulful eyes has a bittersweet backstory that deserves to be told with the respect it deserves.

The Star We Lost Too Soon

Diesel vom Burgimwald wasn't just "the dog who played Rex." At just 8 years old, this Canadian German Shepherd became a Grand Champion in the kennel club world before stealing our hearts as television's most intuitive K9 detective. [[15]] His death in August 2024 from cancer sent shockwaves through the fandom—made more painful because the production team kept his passing secret for six months to protect Diesel's dignity and allow Season 7 to air without overshadowing his performance. [[22]]

Trainer Sherri Davis made the heartbreaking decision to humanely euthanize her beloved partner, choosing his comfort over publicity. [[21]] This wasn't just an actor losing a role—it was a family losing a member who'd worked tirelessly since 2018 on the streets of St. John's.

Meet the New Guardians of the Badge

But here's what the headlines missed: Diesel's legacy didn't end. His nephews Dillon and Dante stepped into his paw prints, with Dillon serving as primary Rex and a third dog named Dreamer handling stunt work. [[20]] These aren't random replacements—they're blood relatives trained by the same woman who raised Diesel, ensuring Rex's spirit remains authentic.

Watch closely in Season 8's premiere (September 22, 2025 on CityTV) and you'll spot subtle differences in ear positioning and movement style—but the intelligence in those eyes? Pure Diesel DNA. [[38]]

Walking in Rex's Paw Prints: St. John's Filming Locations

While cast changes stir emotions, one constant remains: the rugged beauty of St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Every season since 2018 has filmed here, with iconic spots including:

• Signal Hill – Where Rex surveys the city in opening credits
• Memorial University – Stands in for police headquarters exteriors
• Downtown St. John's – Those colorful row houses aren't CGI!

Fans visiting these locations report feeling Diesel's presence everywhere—especially at the Signal Hill overlook where his stunt double still trots during golden hour shoots. [[30]]

Where to Watch

• Canada: New episodes air Tuesdays on CityTV; full seasons stream on CityTV+

• USA: Seasons 1-7 available on Peacock; Season 8 expected Q1 2026

• International: Check your local CityTV partner or Amazon Prime Video regional libraries

Pro tip: Rewatch Season 7's finale knowing what we know now—you'll spot Diesel's final perfect performance in the evidence locker scene where he rests his head on Hudson's knee. No cue. No command. Just love.

The Real Lesson Rex Taught Us

Diesel's story transcends television. He challenged how we view animal labor—not as exploitation, but as partnership. [[16]] His trainer fought for his welfare first, fame second. And now his family continues that mission.

So when you feel that pang watching a new dog wear Rex's vest, remember: this isn't replacement. It's inheritance. And in St. John's, where ocean mist still clings to the same streets Diesel patrolled, his spirit runs free.

Question for our pack: What's YOUR favorite Diesel moment that still makes you reach for the tissues? Share below—let's keep his memory alive together. ❤️🐾