The opening episode of the final series of Paul O'Grady : For the Love of Dogs left fans in tears last night.
The ITV show ended its season opener with a poignant tribute to its late host Paul, with viewers rushing to social media to praise the fitting send-off from the show.
Paul's husband announced the star's 'unexpected but peaceful death' on March, with tributes from Paul's famous friends and fans flooding in throughout the day.
The legendary TV star filmed the 11th and final series of For The Love of Dogs prior to his heartbreaking death, which saw the dad-of-one, 67, meet a new collection of animals on screen.
As the series premiered last night, many viewers grew emotional watching the late animal lover on television knowing he is no longer with us.
But it was a scene that didn't involve Paul that got many fans welling up - the credits rolling in silence in tribute to Paul.
The ITV show then ended with a picture of Paul and one of his canine pals positioned above the years in which the presenter was born and died.
"Beautiful tribute to Paul O’Grady for the Love of dogs Thank you so much," one viewer wrote on Twitter as the credits rolled.
"Feeling all emotional watching Paul O’Grady For The Love of Dogs - Paul you were such a wonderful person. We will all miss you! #POGDOGS," another added, as a third tweeted: "Watching Paul O’Grady for the love of dogs is heartbreaking knowing he’s gone."
One fan praised the show for the fitting celebration of Paul's life, tweeting: "Beautiful tribute to Paul O’Grady for the Love of dogs Thank you so much."
Paul's death sparked a wave of donations for his beloved animal centre last month - with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home saying they were "overwhelmed and touched" by the reaction of the public after the TV star's death.
Chief Executive Peter Laurie said the charity – which featured in the comic’s ITV show – had received countless letters, calls, emails and messages of support.
A "tribute fund" in memory of the star, who passed away aged 67, smashed through the £100,000 barrier just days on from the star's tragic death.
All the money donated will go towards the running of the much-loved charity, which has featured in 10 series of For The Love of Dogs.
Speaking to the Mirror, Mr Laurie also hinted the home was considering a permanent tribute to the star.
He said: "We will be looking to find a suitably fitting way to remember the profound impact Paul had at Battersea and the rescue animal sector – something that will support the animals Paul loved so much, and that would make him proud."
Paul's husband Andre Portasio announced the star's death on March 29, saying: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
"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.
"I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."
Paul is survived by his husband Andre, daughter Sharon and grandson Abel.
Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs is available to stream on ITVX now.
