Mark Wahlberg, the 52-year-old actor, expressed his adoration for his latest costar. During a screening and adoption event for his new film, “Arthur the King,” Wahlberg revealed that he became enamored with his canine costar, Ukai. The dog accompanied him at the event, and Wahlberg even attempted to bring him home from set.
Actor Mark Wahlberg wanted to adopt dog co-star from his new film
Mark Wahlberg came to a screening and adoption event in California’s Westfield Century City with his “Arthur the King” co-star, Ukai. Ukai is a dog who plays the role of Arthur in the film. Wahlberg confessed his infatuation with Ukai at the event, as per People.
Wahlberg even revealed he attempted to take Ukai home with him. In his words, “Oh my God, I tried to bribe the trainer to sell me the dog. I offered her whatever she would want.” Continuing, he said, “But of course, that bond is not something that you can separate. I just fell in love with him.”
Moreover, the affection for Ukai extended to every corner of the Wahlberg household, as Entertainment Weekly reports. The actor talked about how his four children also wanted to bring the dog home due to their close bond with the canine.
The real-life inspiration for ‘Arthur the King’
The film “Arthur the King” depicts the real-life story of a Swedish extreme athlete and author, Mikael Lindnord. He formed a bond with a dog named Arthur during an adventure race in Ecuador. Lindnord documented this remarkable journey in his 2016 book titled “Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home.”
Wahlberg’s recent appearance with his costar Ukai on Monday follows their collaboration in a public service announcement (PSA) advocating for pet adoption. Released in partnership with Lionsgate and the Best Friends Animal Society, the clip emphasized the significance of adopting dogs from shelters. Meanwhile, “Arthur the King” is set to hit theaters on Mar. 15.
