Nothing unusual about the paparazzi photos showing Adam Sandler walking with his mom after getting lunch in Los Angeles last week. But the real riddle was the actor’s T-shirt, which read, “Meatball forever.”

Less in-the-know fans might have thought the actor had food on his mind. But the T-shirt is actually a tribute to Sandler’s late Bulldog, Meatball, who died in 2004 at age 5.

Sandler’s fans had been well-acquainted with Meatball, whose antics were chronicled over the years in video and written posts on the actor’s website. Meatball also appeared in New Line’s 2000 Sandler vehicle, “Little Nicky,” as well as the actor’s 2003 wedding to actress Jacqueline Titone.

After Meatball died, Sandler held a memorial service for more than 100 people at his Malibu home. Guests received T-shirts with Meatball’s likeness and ate cake decorated with a large image of the dog’ face. 

Sandler, who most recently starred in “Reign Over Me,” also has another Bulldog named Matzoball.

To view a video tribute to Meatball and videos of Matzoball, visit www.adamsandler.com