What should have been one of the happiest weeks in their family’s life has instead become one marked by quiet heartbreak.
Good Morning America anchor George Stephanopoulos and his wife, actress and comedian Ali Wentworth, are coming to terms with a devastating loss — one that arrived only days after they proudly celebrated their daughter’s college graduation.
On Wednesday, May 28, Ali, 60, shared the painful news on Instagram: the family had lost their beloved dog, Cooper — a loyal companion she described as an irreplaceable part of their home and hearts.
The announcement abruptly shifted the family’s mood from celebration to sorrow.
“I Lost My Longtime Companion” 
In an emotional post, Ali shared a montage of photos chronicling Cooper’s life, writing simply but powerfully:
“I lost my longtime companion. The greatest dog and integral part of our family.”
She went on to paint a vivid picture of Cooper’s unforgettable personality — recalling moments that felt both humorous and deeply personal.
From chasing a massive elk into a pond, to surviving an entire bottle of melatonin, to stealing Christmas candy like a professional, Cooper’s antics had clearly become woven into the family’s shared history.
Ali also reflected on the quieter moments that linger the longest — Cooper sleeping at the foot of their bed, dreaming of running, and greeting every human with boundless affection.
“Cooper was unconditionally adored by all,” she wrote.
“I will miss him with all my heart. See you on the other side, Coop. We still have many squirrels to chase…”
An Outpouring of Love From Friends and Fans
The tribute immediately prompted an outpouring of support from Ali’s celebrity friends.
Beth Ostrosky Stern shared a memory of Cooper helping her rescue a seagull on the beach, calling him “the bestest boy.”
Jennifer Garner summed up the loss simply:
“A special kind of heartbreak
.”
Sean Hayes wrote:
“Aww. I loved him. So sorry honey!”
Julianne Moore added:
“Oh no Ali. I’m so sorry.”
And Demi Moore offered a heartfelt message:
“Sending you all love… they are truly the most heart-expanding gift.”
A Second Tribute — And a Deeper Goodbye 
Later that same day, Ali posted a second tribute — this time a tender video of Cooper spending time with the family alongside George, 64, and their two daughters, Elliott, 21, and Harper, 19.
The timing made the loss even more poignant.
Just days earlier, the household had been filled with pride and joy.
From Graduation Smiles to Grief
On Sunday, May 25, the family had celebrated Elliott’s graduation from Brown University.
Ali marked the milestone with her trademark humor, writing:
“She did it! Happy graduation to an incredible human being who has her father’s brain and my legs. And if it was the other way around — she’d be screwed. Proud parents! All our children deserve an education!”
George also shared his pride publicly:
“We have a college graduate!!! Congratulations to Elliott, and to the entire class of 2025. We love you and are so proud of you, E!”
Reflecting on the weekend live on Good Morning America, George added:
“Elliott had a great weekend. She graduated from Brown on Sunday. She was all smiles all weekend long — and we are so proud of her.”
A Family Already Navigating Change 
The loss comes amid other emotional transitions for the Stephanopoulos–Wentworth family.
Back in August 2023, when they dropped their younger daughter Harper off at college, Ali admitted the moment was harder than she expected.
“We dropped our baby off at college,” she wrote at the time.
“Everyone is saying she’s ready to launch! But… I don’t think I’m ready!”
She later described missing the everyday rhythms of family life — cooking pasta, picking up wet towels, even breathing in her daughter’s familiar scent — calling the shift “brutal on the parents.”
A Week That Changed Everything
Now, in a single week marked by both immense pride and profound grief, the family’s story has struck a chord with many.
Their experience is a quiet reminder of how swiftly life can pivot — from celebration to loss — and how love, whether for a child or a four-legged family member, leaves an indelible mark.
For George and Ali, the house that echoed with graduation cheers has grown quieter — but the memories remain, stitched together by love.
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