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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Daniel Bird

ITV star to 'takeover Paul O'Grady's For The Love Of Dogs' after sudden death

Paul O'Grady's For The Love Of Dogs is set to go ahead, two months after the much-loved comedian passed away.

Following his death, the future of the show which is filmed at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home was uncertain but reports now suggest a close friend of the late star will take over.

It's believed that bosses were hoping that the series which raises awareness of Battersea were hoping the show would continue to shine a light on the work they do for animals in need.

Now, it's claimed that Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden is set to take on the role of presenting the programme and raising awareness.

Paul O'Grady's For The Love Of Dogs is believed to be going ahead (ITV/Battersea Cat and Dogs Home/REX/Shutterstock)

Sources claim that while it's believed many want the show to continue, it's a sensitive subject given Paul passed away just two months ago.

"Execs just feel like it's too soon to make firm plans about the series, as it's barely been two months since he died," a source told The Sun.

They added: "But the feeling at the home is that it's what Paul would have wanted.

"After all, he cared deeply about the animals in Battersea. Amanda is the natural choice to take over the job, not just because she’s an experienced presenter but because she also cares about the home and would do anything for them."

Amanda is believed to be a favourite to take over from Paul (ITV)

During the tenure of his show which saw a new season air on April 13, Paul adopted several strays from the home and even took home a puppy during the coronavirus pandemic.

Over the course of his time working with Battersea, the likes of Her Majesty Queen Camilla, then the Duchess of Cornwall often appeared alongside Paul to raise awareness.

The Queen has also rehomed two dogs, Jack Russell's Beth and Bluebell from Battersea.

After his programme aired, Battersea would often be inundated with donations and offers from those eager to help the staff.

Paul adopted several strays from Battersea over the years (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

During the latest edition of the programme, aired after Paul's death, viewers were left in floods of tears as the comic met an abused dog with the "saddest face".

The spaniel was found abandoned and it became immediately clear he'd been subjected to substantial abuse by his previous owners, which led the dog to be very wary of people.

Determined to help, Paul met with a behaviour expert at the shelter who advised him to try a game to build trust with little Murphy.

Do you think Amanda Holden is a good choice to replace Paul O'Grady? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

Paul transferred dog treats from a cup to a bowl in order to maintain Murphy's attention and was even able to give the spaniel a small stroke.

"Is that not the saddest face you've ever seen?" Paul questioned.

At first, Murphy moved his head away but by the end of the session, Paul was able to pet the dog without him moving away.

"Very small steps but great process," Paul remarked before adding: "If you've ever felt like crying it's now."

ITV were approached for comment.

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