Why did Cyril Schreiner fake his dog Albert's kidnapping?

Cyril Schreiner staged the kidnapping of his pug, Albert, as a comedic social media stunt intended for entertainment.

What did Cyril Schreiner use instead of his dog in the fake kidnapping video?

In the staged video, Cyril Schreiner used a sack of potatoes in place of his dog, Albert.

Did Cyril Schreiner gain followers or money from the fake kidnapping stunt?

No, Cyril Schreiner stated that the stunt did not result in financial gain and actually led to losses in partnerships and credibility.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Influencer Fakes Dog Kidnapping for Content, Apologizes

Influencer Fakes Dog Kidnapping for Content, Apologizes

10 Feb

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Summary

Content creator staged a pug kidnapping using a sack of potatoes.
The influencer's stunt aimed for entertainment, not profit.
Schreiner lost partnerships and credibility due to the incident.

Influencer Fakes Dog Kidnapping for Content, Apologizes

French content creator Cyril Schreiner has publicly apologized after staging a fake kidnapping of his pug, Albert. The influencer admitted to staging surveillance footage approximately one month prior to his apology, which he posted on February 10, 2026. He revealed that he used a sack of potatoes in place of his dog during the staged video, which he intended to be comedic.

Schreiner expressed deep regret for his actions, stating, "I acted stupidly, and I apologize publicly." He emphasized that his intent was never to disrespect individuals who have genuinely lost pets. The content creator also dispelled rumors that the stunt was aimed at increasing followers or generating revenue, noting that he actually suffered losses in partnerships and credibility.

He further shared that the past year had been challenging and that his enthusiasm for creating social media content had waned. Schreiner concluded his apology by reiterating his remorse and stating his primary goal has always been to spread joy and positivity online.