RIP: Diesel Vom Burgimwald, Hudson & Rex Star

Janick Price 13 May 2025

Have you ever considered the dedication and talent it takes for an animal to captivate audiences on screen? Diesel vom Burgimwald, the German Shepherd who embodied the character of Rex in the hit show Hudson & Rex, was more than just a canine actor; he was a performer whose skills and presence resonated deeply with viewers across Canada and beyond. This is his story.

The world of television has recently mourned the loss of a remarkable talent, a four-legged star whose charisma and dedication brought joy to countless homes. Diesel vom Burgimwald, known to millions as Rex from the Citytv series "Hudson & Rex," passed away in August 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances. His portrayal of the intelligent and loyal police dog captivated audiences for six seasons, spanning over 100 episodes, as he patrolled the streets of St. John's, Newfoundland, alongside his human partner, Detective Charlie Hudson, played by John Reardon. Diesel's passing marks the end of an era for the show and its many devoted fans, but his contributions to the world of entertainment will not soon be forgotten.

Category	Information
Name	Diesel vom Burgimwald
Known As	Rex on "Hudson & Rex"
Breed	German Shepherd
Gender	Male
Date of Death	August 2024 (Public announcement February 12, 2025)
Cause of Death	Cancer
Nationality	Canadian
Kennel	Burgimwald Kennels (North of Barrie, Ontario)
Trainer/Owner	Sherri Davis
Show(s)	Hudson & Rex (2019-2024)
Other Appearances	Canadian Screen Awards with Samantha Bee (2023), The Up & Adam Show (2020)
Titles/Achievements	Kennel Club Grand Champion
Bloodlines	German (Zamp, Farbenspiel, Trienzbachtal)
Additional Notes	15th Generation, Dog master Sherri Davis adopted Diesel when he was just 18 months old.
Reference Link	Hudson & Rex Official Website

Diesel's journey to stardom began at Burgimwald Kennels, located just north of Barrie, Ontario, a place whose name, meaning "castle in the forest," perfectly reflects the idyllic environment where these exceptional German Shepherds are raised. The kennel's philosophy centers around prioritizing the well-being and happiness of their dogs, ensuring they are not only champions in the show ring but also cherished members of the family. Diesel's lineage boasts top German bloodlines, including Zamp, Farbenspiel, and 14 generations of Trienzbachtal, a testament to his exceptional breeding and the kennel's commitment to excellence. Born and raised in a home puppy nursery, Diesel was nurtured from a young age to become a confident and well-adjusted canine, traits that would later serve him well in his acting career.

Sherri Davis, Diesel's trainer and lifelong companion, played an integral role in his success. Davis adopted Diesel when he was just 18 months old, recognizing his potential and forging a bond that would last a lifetime. Her expertise in dog training, coupled with her deep understanding of Diesel's personality, allowed her to develop his natural talents and prepare him for the demands of television acting. Davis employs positive reinforcement methods, creating a supportive and encouraging environment where Diesel could thrive. Her dedication to Diesel's well-being extended beyond the set, ensuring he received the love, care, and attention he deserved both on and off screen. When deciding on stunts, davis would get a draft of the script and would start breaking it down, looking at what new behaviours and actions are included.

On the set of "Hudson & Rex," Diesel vom Burgimwald was more than just an actor; he was a valued member of the team. According to those who worked with him, he held the coveted position of "No. 1 on the call sheet," a testament to his presence in almost every scene. John Reardon, who played Detective Charlie Hudson, shared a special connection with Diesel, often expressing how much they missed each other when they were not filming. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, a result of their mutual respect and affection. The series, filmed in the picturesque landscapes of Newfoundland, showcased Diesel's abilities to a wide audience, earning him admiration for his intelligence, agility, and expressive performances. The role of Rex called for a diverse range of skills, from performing complex stunts to conveying subtle emotions, and Diesel consistently delivered, exceeding expectations and captivating viewers with his undeniable talent.

Diesel's impact extended beyond the realm of entertainment. As a Canadian Kennel Club Grand Champion, he exemplified the breed standard for German Shepherds, showcasing their intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty. His success in the show ring and on television served as an inspiration to dog lovers and aspiring trainers alike, demonstrating the potential that exists within these remarkable animals. Diesel's story is a testament to the power of positive reinforcement training, the importance of the human-animal bond, and the transformative effect that animals can have on our lives.

The news of Diesel vom Burgimwald's passing was met with an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and the wider community. Christina Jennings, chairman and president of Shaftesbury, the production company behind "Hudson & Rex," expressed her condolences on Instagram, calling Diesel "a true star with an undeniable sense of majesty." TV writer Briony Smith penned a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the joy and comfort that Rex brought to her and countless others. The loss of Diesel is deeply felt, not only by those who knew him personally but also by the millions of viewers who welcomed him into their homes each week. His legacy will live on through the countless hours of entertainment he provided and the positive impact he had on the lives of those who admired him.

While Diesel vom Burgimwald may no longer be with us, his memory will continue to inspire and uplift. He was more than just an actor; he was a companion, a performer, and a symbol of the extraordinary bond that exists between humans and animals. His contributions to the world of television will not be forgotten, and his legacy will endure for years to come. As we bid farewell to this beloved canine star, we can take solace in knowing that he lived a life filled with purpose, passion, and unconditional love.

Diesel's trainer, Sherri Davis, meticulously prepared him for his role, ensuring his safety and well-being were always paramount. "When we're training Diesel in his role as Rex, we prep all the behaviors ahead of time," Davis explained. This dedication to pre-planning allowed Diesel to execute complex stunts and actions with confidence and precision. The positive reinforcement methods employed by Davis fostered a strong bond between her and Diesel, creating a trusting and collaborative working relationship. This approach not only enhanced Diesel's performance but also ensured his overall happiness and well-being.

The name "vom Burgimwald" itself holds significance, translating to "castle in the forest." This moniker reflects the idyllic setting where Diesel and other German Shepherds at Burgimwald Kennels were raised, surrounded by nature and nurtured with care. The kennel's commitment to preserving the integrity of the German Shepherd breed is evident in their rigorous breeding program, which emphasizes health, temperament, and working ability. Diesel's success as an actor and champion exemplifies the qualities that Burgimwald Kennels strives to cultivate in their dogs. The kennel's philosophy extends beyond breeding and training, encompassing a deep respect for the animals and a commitment to providing them with a loving and enriching environment. This holistic approach is what sets Burgimwald Kennels apart and contributes to the exceptional quality of their dogs.

Before his iconic role as Rex, Diesel's path, like many aspiring actors, was paved with smaller roles and training opportunities. While specific details of his early career are scarce, it's understood that he honed his skills through various training exercises and smaller appearances. This foundation allowed him to step into the role of Rex with confidence and poise, capturing the hearts of viewers from the very beginning. Diesel's dedication to his craft, coupled with his natural talent, propelled him to stardom and solidified his place in Canadian television history. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring animal actors and trainers, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and a strong bond with their animal partners, anything is possible.

The character of Rex resonated with audiences for several reasons. Beyond his intelligence and impressive skills, Rex embodied loyalty, courage, and compassion qualities that are universally admired. His unwavering partnership with Detective Hudson provided a heartwarming counterpoint to the often-gritty realities of police work. Rex was not just a crime-solving tool; he was a friend, a confidant, and a source of unwavering support for his human partner. This emotional connection is what made Rex so relatable and endearing to viewers of all ages. Diesel vom Burgimwald's portrayal of Rex brought these qualities to life, making the character an unforgettable part of Canadian television landscape.

The impact of "Hudson & Rex" extends beyond entertainment. The show has showcased the beauty and diversity of Newfoundland, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy. It has also raised awareness about the important role that police dogs play in law enforcement, highlighting their intelligence, training, and dedication. Furthermore, the show's positive portrayal of the human-animal bond has promoted responsible pet ownership and encouraged viewers to appreciate the unique qualities that animals bring to our lives. Diesel vom Burgimwald, through his portrayal of Rex, has contributed to these positive outcomes, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the television screen.

While Diesel vom Burgimwald's physical presence is gone, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless viewers who were touched by his performances. His legacy as a talented actor, a loyal companion, and a symbol of the extraordinary bond between humans and animals will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

The show Hudson & Rex was filming its 7th season when diesel passed.

For six of the last seven seasons and 100 episodes, diesel vom burgimwald played rex, the astonishing german shepherd who patrolled the streets of st. Johns, nfld., with his police partner det. Charlie hudson (john reardon) on citytvs hudson & rex.

pes Diesel vom Burgimwald Galéria Z filmu ČSFD.sk

Meet German Shepherd Diesel vom Burgimwald, Star of Canadian TV Show

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RIP: Diesel Vom Burgimwald, Hudson & Rex Star

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