Influencer Admits Faking Dog Kidnapping Prank

French content creator Cyril Schreiner admitted that he faked the kidnapping of his famous dog, Albert, stating it was a 'very bad joke.'

Days after he claimed he was reunited with the internet-beloved pug, Schreiner, 27, backtracked and apologized, revealing that he 'acted stupidly' by staging the prank, in posts shared to TikTok and Instagram on Tuesday.

Schreiner has earned a massive social media following, with 8.5 million fans on and 1.5 million followers on Instagram, frequently sharing humorous clips of Albert trying to steal his food.

The influencer said that over the past few days he realized he 'messed up badly' and that his dog's kidnapping was initially meant to be 'comedic', as fans blasted him for the 'cruel' joke.

'I acted stupidly, and I apologize publicly. Whether you accept my apology or not, I never meant to disrespect people who have actually lost pets. I can't imagine how horrible that must be,' he shared. 

Last month Schreiner rented out a house and staged surveillance footage that made it seem as though Albert had been kidnapped.

Daily Mail has reached out to Schreiner for comment. 

Later, on February 5th, Schreiner posted an Instagram photo with the pup, where he looked teary-eyed after being 'reunited' with Albert. 

Schreiner said the initial video was 'obviously comedic,' adding that Albert was not involved in its creation as he used a sack of potatoes in his place.

Last month Schreiner rented out a house and staged surveillance footage that made it seem as though Albert had been kidnapped