Paul O'Grady gave a hilarious update on his drag alter ego Lily Savage to one Merseyside contestant on Blind Date.
The Birkenhead TV star died "unexpectedly but peacefully" last night aged 67. His husband, Andre Portasio issued a statement to confirm the sad news.
He said: "We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.
READ MORE: Paul O'Grady has died at the age of 67
"I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."
Anthony Dean, from Maghull, appeared in the reboot of Blind Date, which was hosted by the Merseyside TV star when it returned to screens in 2017. Anthony, 34, unfortunately, wasn't picked for a date but told the ECHO how he managed to make Paul AKA Lily Savage laugh out loud ahead of going on the show.
He said: "It was through the ECHO I actually saw the advert because I remember an article about how Blind Date was back and Paul O'Grady was hosting it. I applied and ended up going down to London for it. He was very caring and charismatic. He was really sensitive but hilarious off-camera.
"We were getting ready in the back where they put make-up on you and Paul came through. He walked down the corridor and I shouted 'Lily Savage', Paul burst out laughing and said 'oh she’s long dead her'.
"I absolutely loved taking part in his show and he was definitely the best fit for it as he and Cilla were so close."
Speaking about the news of his death, Anthony, who works at B&M, said: "It's so sad. He's a legend in himself and because of his personality, he touched so many people. I was fortunate enough to see the funnier side of him that you don’t get to see on TV.
"The stuff that doesn’t get aired that he came out with on stage had me in hysterics. I just loved the fact that he had no filter to what he said in front of an audience. The thing that struck me most about him, and for probably everyone who met him, was how much of a caring person he actually was.
"He took time to get to know me and genuinely was passionate about people. His humour is second to none and I’m sad to say that we’ve lost a true legend."
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