When indie-rock star Jenny Lewis turned 50 on January 8, 2026, she threw tradition out the window in the most joyful way possible. Best known as the lead singer of Rilo Kiley and an acclaimed solo artist, Lewis marked her half-century milestone with a whimsical ceremony in her own backyard — one that had everyone talking: she “married” her beloved dog.
This playful event blended heartfelt emotion with Lewis’s signature creative flair, turning a birthday into an unforgettable moment that celebrated companionship, resilience, and unconditional love.
The Star and Her Groom: Bobby Rhubarb
The canine at the heart of this celebration is Bobby Rhubarb, Lewis’s cherished black cockapoo. The pooch isn’t just a pet — he’s been a recurring muse in Lewis’s creative life. Bobby was immortalized in her 2021 song “Puppy and a Truck”, later featured on her 2023 album Joy’All.
At the backyard ceremony, Lewis shared photos on social media showing her in a white gown and veil beside Bobby, who was on a leash and ready for his spotlight. Cakes adorned with messages like “JL50!” and “For BETTER or for WORSE I do!” added a lighthearted wedding theme to the festivities.
Friends, Music, and Memorable Moments
The gathering wasn’t just about the birthday girl and her four-legged companion — it was also filled with friends and fellow musicians. Close pals including Morgan Nagler, Dave Scher, and Alex Greenwald were there to celebrate.
A standout moment came when Lewis took the mic with Ben Gibbard of The Postal Service to perform the band’s beloved track “Such Great Heights” for guests. The music turned the backyard into a heartfelt reception that mixed rock camaraderie with pure joy.
A Bond Forged in Tough Times
Lewis has spoken candidly in the past about how much Bobby meant to her during difficult chapters of her life. She adopted him at a low point during her forties when she felt isolated and worn down. Bobby gave her companionship, purpose, and comfort — roles she’s said were transformative.
For fans, the “wedding” was less a joke and more a celebration of that deep connection, showcasing how pets can become vital emotional anchors in their humans’ lives.
Fans React and Celebrate Alongside Jenny
After Lewis posted snapshots and moments from the event, fans flooded social media with playful congratulations and affectionate remarks. Messages like “Muzzle tov” and other dog-themed puns made it clear that followers were delighted by this joyful twist on a milestone celebration.
In the end, Jenny Lewis’s 50th birthday wasn’t just another party — it was an expressive, music-filled tribute to love, friendship, and the unique bond between a woman and her dog.
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
