From Hamster Wheel to Wedding Bells: How a Little Pet Named Popcorn Changed One Family’s Life Forever
By Jill Dando News
In a world full of unexpected twists, this one might just take the (cheese)cake — and it all began with a golden hamster named Popcorn.
When Chris Davies bought a tiny “starter pet” for his daughter Lily, he never imagined the furry little fluffball would become the catalyst for healing, creativity, and even love.
But that’s exactly what happened — and millions around the globe have followed along for every whisker twitch on TikTok.
“Popcorn was meant to help Lily learn about responsibility,” Chris says, “but he ended up teaching us about connection, compassion — and how even the smallest creatures can spark the biggest changes.”
As the Davies family navigated life’s ups and downs, Popcorn became a source of calm and comfort, especially for Chris, who was facing challenges with his mental health.
Sharing Popcorn’s daily adventures online — from midnight hamster marathons to snuggling into tiny sock beds — became a surprising lifeline.
And then, the story took an even more unexpected turn.
One of Popcorn’s most devoted TikTok fans turned out to be Carrie, a nurse who lived just a mile away — though she and Chris had never met.
A single message about hamster bedding (yes, really) led to a longer chat… then a real-life meetup… and now?
“We’re getting married this December,” Chris grins. “Thanks to a 6-inch-long hamster.”
Popcorn’s matchmaking magic didn’t go unnoticed.
The BBC recently featured their story, and fans have poured in from across the globe to cheer on the happy couple — and their pocket-sized Cupid.
With over 145,000 followers and more than 11.3 million likes, Chris’s TikTok account, @chrisdavies50, has become a go-to destination for hamster care, cozy life lessons, and “awws” on demand.
But it’s not just about internet fame. The journey brought Chris and Lily closer than ever. In May 2024, they co-wrote and published a children’s book together — a poem dreamed up on a car ride to Harry Potter World, now published by Candy Jar Books and available worldwide.
“It’s amazing what can grow from a small moment,” Chris says. “A pet. A poem. A post. And suddenly, your life looks totally different.”
Now, Chris and Lily are on a mission to promote proper small pet care and remind the world that even the tiniest animals can have a massive impact.
As for Popcorn? He’s still the star of the show — tiny paws, big personality, and an even bigger legacy.
So, the next time you pass by the hamster aisle at your local pet store, remember: the smallest companions can sometimes lead to the biggest stories.
And maybe — just maybe — even to “I do.”
If you have a positive story or uplifting news to share, we’d love to hear from you!
Just email us at news@goodnewspost.co.uk.
Whether it's a local hero, an act of kindness, or a personal win, your story could help spread joy and improve someone’s mental health. Let’s make the world a little brighter, one good news story at a time.
And don’t forget—you can sign up for free to get the latest feel-good stories straight to your inbox!
