The Scottish actor Callum Kerr has spoken out following the tragic and brutal murder of his mother and stepfather. On Saturday, February 8th, the 30-year-old actor posted a heartfelt statement on Instagram on behalf of several family members of the deceased couple.
"At this moment of profound sorrow, Callum Kerr and Amanda Kerr are mourning the loss of their beloved mother, Dawn Searle (née Smith, Kerr), while Tom Searle and Ella Searle are deeply grieving the passing of their cherished father, Andrew Searle," the statement read. "No family members are available for media interviews or comments at this time. We humbly request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult period."
The statement continued, "We will provide updates as and when appropriate. Thank you for your understanding and support."
The previous day, on Friday, February 7th, the BBC reported that the British couple, Andrew and Dawn Searle, had been discovered deceased in their French home. Authorities were alerted to the scene after the couple failed to show up for a scheduled dog walk with a neighbor.
Jean-Sébastien Orcibal, the Mayor of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, confirmed to a French television station that the couple's deaths were indeed homicides, according to the BBC. Speaking to The Telegraph, Orcibal noted that the couple "led a very vibrant social life."
"They were exceptionally kind and courteous individuals," he added.
Neighbors further informed the outlet that Dawn was found naked outside her home with severe head injuries. Pieces of her jewelry were scattered around her body, they said.
Callum, who sings country music but is perhaps best recognized for his roles in Virgin River and Monarch, had the honor of walking his mother down the aisle at her wedding to Andrew in 2023. He shared a poignant photo of that special moment on Instagram in September 2023, captioning it: "Not many people can say they walked their own mother down the aisle. What an honor!! I love you, Mum. Congratulations to Dawn and Andy on their wonderful wedding day, and here's to a lifetime of happiness together for the beloved couple."
Andrew was a retired fraud investigator, while Dawn had previously worked in project management. The couple had reportedly retired to France about a decade earlier, according to The Scotsman.
