From Heartbreak to Hope: Julia Trubkina’s Emotional Business Comeback After Losing Beloved Dog Simba

Reality television often thrusts its stars into the spotlight for their love lives and personal drama, but for 90 Day Fiancé’s Julia Trubkina, the most powerful chapter of her story is being written away from the cameras—one shaped by heartbreak, resilience, and a newfound sense of purpose. Known to millions for her fiery spirit and unwavering devotion to husband Brandon Gibbs, Julia’s latest journey takes her far beyond the confines of televised romance. It begins with a painful loss: the death of her beloved dog, Simba. Once a shining presence on her social media and a true companion through her immigration journey, Simba’s passing left a gaping void. But rather than be consumed by grief, Julia has chosen to channel her sorrow into something deeply meaningful—relaunching her heartfelt business, Kingdom for Dogs. It’s more than a pet care brand. It’s a tribute. A love letter. A mission. And it’s the kind of real-life transformation that makes reality TV look tame in comparison.

The emotional core of Julia’s story lies in her unshakable bond with Simba, a rescue dog who quickly became more than a pet—he was her emotional anchor through the chaotic whirlwind of building a new life in America. Simba wasn’t just featured in her Instagram stories; he was there in the quiet moments of homesickness, the early days of marriage, and during the struggle for independence from Brandon’s overbearing parents. Julia, a self-proclaimed city girl, had a tough time adjusting to rural life on the Gibbs family farm. But Simba made it bearable. He offered unconditional love, playful companionship, and something even more valuable—motivation. The idea for Kingdom for Dogs was born not in a boardroom, but in the quiet moments she shared with Simba. From selecting toys and treats to packaging boxes with care, Simba was her business partner in spirit and in play. When he passed, Julia didn’t just lose a pet. She lost a piece of her foundation. 

In the wake of Simba’s death, Julia did what many entrepreneurs in her shoes would fear to do: she stepped back. She halted her business operations. She went silent on social media. Fans worried. Followers offered condolences. And for a time, it seemed unclear if Kingdom for Dogs would ever return. But the silence wasn’t empty—it was sacred. Julia was grieving not just a companion, but the soul of her brand. And when she did return, it was with strength and intention. “I’m back to shipping boxes to make your dogs happy,” she wrote in a heartfelt post, accompanied by a bittersweet note: “I’m sure Simba would be happy to know more dogs will have a fun time with our toys.” In that moment, fans witnessed not just a business relaunch—but a woman reclaiming her purpose. Through tears and determination, Julia revived Kingdom for Dogs not as a way to forget Simba, but as a way to honor him with every package she sends.

Julia’s comeback is more than a business update—it’s a masterclass in emotional resilience. She isn’t just selling curated dog boxes; she’s selling a piece of her heart. Every toy, every treat is handpicked with the same care she once gave to Simba. The business, now infused with even deeper meaning, is thriving once again thanks to the authenticity that made her a fan favorite on 90 Day Fiancé. In a world where influencer brands often feel manufactured, Julia’s sincerity stands out. Her followers recognize the difference. They see the woman who cried for her dog, who paused everything to mourn, and who came back stronger not in spite of her pain—but because of it. Even former castmates have rallied behind her comeback, offering support and helping amplify her message. This isn’t just about a side hustle. It’s about survival, healing, and transformation—delivered one dog box at a time.

As Julia steps into this new chapter, the future looks brighter and more grounded. Kingdom for Dogs is no longer just a passion project. It’s a symbol of growth, a lifeline, and a legacy to Simba. By re-engaging with her entrepreneurial dreams, Julia has reclaimed both financial independence and emotional clarity. Fans speculate that her income from the business is now a significant part of the household’s financial structure—though Julia remains modest about it. What matters more is how this venture allows her to stay busy, channel her grief, and continue spreading joy to pet owners across the country. With plans for new product lines, behind-the-scenes glimpses into her creative process, and continued engagement with her loyal fan base, Julia Trubkina is proving that healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means evolving. And in her case, evolving means making the world a better place for dogs—and their humans—one loving box at a time.