(Yahoo) On Friday, the world learned that Grumpy Cat, the internet sensation whose scowl launched a thousand memes — earning her 1.5 million Twitter followers and 8.3 million Facebook fans — had died at the age of seven.
“We are unimaginably heartbroken to announce the loss of our beloved Grumpy Cat,” read the full statement by Grumpy’s family and manager to her 1.5 million Twitter followers on Friday morning. “Despite care from top professionals, as well as from her very loving family, Grumpy encountered complications from a recent urinary tract infection that unfortunately became too tough for her to overcome. She passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, May 14, at home in the arms of her mommy, Tabatha.”
The statement continued, “Besides being our baby and a cherished member of the family, Grumpy Cat has helped millions of people smile all around the world — even when times were tough. Her spirit will continue to live on through her fans everywhere.”
Some days are grumpier than others… pic.twitter.com/ws209VWl97
— Grumpy Cat (@RealGrumpyCat) May 17, 2019
Grumpy Cat, whose pre-celebrity name was Tardar Sauce, burst to fame in 2012 when her owner’s brother posted a picture of her mirthless mug on social media. Within 48 hours, her image had been viewed more than a million times.