The Eurovision Semi-Finals kicked off in style in Liverpool last night, and amid the excitement, some fans were left feeling emotional after a surprise appearance from the late Paul O’Grady in the opening video.
Birkenhead-born O’Grady was best known for his Lily Savage drag persona and presenting TV shows such as For The Love Of Dogs.
His husband Andre Portasio confirmed that he died “suddenly, but peacefully” at his home in Kent on March 28 at the age of 68.
Starring in the Welcome to Liverpool video, O’Grady could be seen beaming at the camera as he mopped the floor dressed in a red and white polka dot apron with one of his beloved dogs held under his arm.
Commenting on the poignant moment, the BBC said in a statement: “Paul took part in this film as he wanted to mark his pride in his home region of Liverpool hosting the contest on behalf of 2022 winners Ukraine.”
The move was a winner with viewers at home, who rushed to social media to voice their approval.
“A gorgeous little nod to the great and utterly fabulous Paul O’Grady in the opening titles to Eurovision,” wrote one person.
“So lovely to see Paul O’Grady in that opening and what an opening trailer that was. Amazing to see the King and Queen in it too and of course Ukraine the key part of it all,” agreed another.
“Seeing Paul O’Grady was very touching,” remarked a third, with several other fans commenting that they had been reduced to tears.
