Racehorse movie star dies aged 24 after becoming an instant ‘fan favorite’ for his role in the Oscar-nominated film

A horse racing movie star who starred in an Oscar-nominated film has died at the age of 24.

Popcorn Deelites played the legendary American champion Seabiscuit in the 2003 film of the same name.

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Starring Tobey Maguire, the film tells the story of the Seabiscuit superstar’s unexpected success and was nominated for a total of seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Directed by Gary Moss and also starring Jeff Bridges and William H Macy, the film grossed £110 million at the box office.

Retired Old Friends Equine announces that Popcorn Deelites has passed away from complications from abdominal pain.

A statement read: “We are deeply saddened to announce that the Seabiscuit POPCORN DEELITES star (24 years old) has passed away.

“A 17-year resident of OF, his boating companion for all those years, the Special Ring, was devastated, so were we. Pops will always be a shining star in our hearts.

“Pops, a Seabiscuit that flies in blood, appears in many scenes throughout the film, including a dramatic battle with the winner of the Triple Crown War Admiral.”

Social media was unleashed with tributes to the horse, who returned to racing after appearing in the film.

One said: “What a gorgeous animal. As a star in the wonderful movie Seabiscuit, it has a special place in both purebred and cinematic history.”

Another posted: “RIP Popcorn Delites! Now you can run your own with Seabiscuit.”

One Twitter user wrote: “So sorry to hear of the news. Condolences to everyone at the ranch. Please take comfort in knowing he had a wonderful retirement with you.”

While one said: “What a punch to the gut.”

Old Friends founder Michael Blowen said: “The fans love him and he loves the fans.

“He will miss him very much here on the ranch but I’m sure his old friend and companion, the Special Ring, will miss him the most.”