Actress Sue Johnston has welcomed a robot cat into her life following her role in the upcoming BBC comedy series *Ann Droid*. Johnston, known for her work in *The Royle Family*, received the lifelike robotic pet from her co-star Diane Morgan, who plays a high-tech “Eldercare” helper in the show.

Johnston described the robot cat as remarkably realistic, noting its ability to purr, wag its tail, and even simulate a heartbeat. “It’s so soft,” she remarked, adding that the comforting presence of the device often makes her momentarily forget it is artificial. She also reflected on the potential benefits of such technology, suggesting that robotic pets could provide companionship for elderly individuals in care homes who are unable to have live animals.

*Ann Droid*, set to premiere on July 17, centers on the relationship between Johnston’s character, a woman who receives the advanced cyborg carer portrayed by Morgan, and the unlikely friendship that develops between them. The series explores themes of aging, technology, and companionship in a comedic context.