Jenny Lewis, the talented singer-songwriter from the indie band Rilo Kiley, recently made headlines by celebrating her 50th birthday in a truly unique way—she married her dog, a cockapoo named Bobby Rhubarb. This quirky event took place on January 8 and has since captured the hearts of fans.
At the celebration, Jenny wore a stunning white wedding gown, complete with a veil. She shared Polaroid-style photos on social media, showcasing a wedding cake adorned with playful messages like “For better or worse, I do!” and “JL50!” It was definitely a birthday party like no other. Notable guests included musicians like Alex Greenwald from Phantom Planet and Ben Gibbard from The Postal Service, with whom she performed the hit song “Such Great Heights” during the reception.
In an interview, Jenny revealed how much her dog means to her. After a difficult period during her forties, including a year of isolation, having Bobby by her side helped her reconnect with life. “I had to find things to get me out of the house,” she shared, emphasizing how caring for a pet brought her joy. It’s a reminder of how animals can enrich our lives, especially during tough times.
Jenny’s lighthearted take on marriage also reflects a growing trend on social media. Many people have been sharing their own unique celebratory events—some even declaring “I married my pet!” This showcases a sense of humor and creativity that resonates widely.
This isn’t just a personal celebration for Jenny; it taps into a larger conversation about mental health and companionship. Many studies, including data from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, show that pet ownership can significantly boost emotional well-being. In fact, around 67% of pet owners report feeling less lonely.
Jenny Lewis plans to hit the road soon with Rilo Kiley for reunion shows in the U.S. and Europe this May, giving fans more to look forward to. Her playful spirit reminds us that milestones can be celebrated in unexpected ways, and life is about the joy we create, no matter how unconventional it might seem.
For more on Jenny and her journey, check out Rolling Stone or The Independent.
