ITV have announced a major scheduling shake-up following the death of Paul O'Grady aged 67.
The TV legend passed away "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening, his husband announced. ITV bosses have opted to show a rerun of Paul's award winning show For The Love of Dogs royal special at 5pm on Wednesday.
The Chase, hosted by Bradley Walsh, has now been axed on Wednesday night as a result of the scheduling shake-up. The special originally aired in December 2022 and was a celebration of 160 years of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home as Paul was an ambassador and Camilla, the Queen Consort, was a long-time supporter.
The beloved entertainer hosted For the Love of Dogs from 2012, with the show following the staff at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
According to a Palace source, Camilla, who appeared in the episode, said upon hearing the news of O'Grady's passing that his "warm heart and infectious humour lit up the lives of so many".
This comes after Queen Consort Camilla paid tribute to the late TV star, writing that she was "deeply saddened" to learn of Paul's passing. Paul worked closely with Her Majesty as they both supported Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
Sharing a picture of Paul and Camilla, the Royal Family official Twitter account wrote: "Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O’Grady, who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea_, providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories."
ITV1 has also announced that it will air a special tribute show to the beloved entertainer next month.
For the Love of Paul O'Grady will air on Sunday, April 9 at 8pm, and the new season of For the Love Dogs will begin on Thursday, April 13 at 8:30pm as planned.
Paul's husband Andre Portasio said in his statement: “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."
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