The death of the nation's favourite dog-loving presenter has prompted a wave of tributes and outpouring of affection. Paul O'Grady's sudden passing aged 67 was announced today, Wednesday, March 29.
As well as tributes from fans, fellow celebs and royalty, ITV has rushed to add its recognition of the star, marking the sad event with a last-minute shake-up to its programming.
ITV has announced that it will be showing the Royal special of Paul's show. Using a fittingly timed slot to air the show, Paul's award-winning 'For The Love Of Dogs' will be broadcast instead of game show The Chase at 5pm today. This programming slot was formerly used to air Paul's self-titled teatime chat show.
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O'Grady first amassed his TV following with his drag act persona, Lily Savage. Since then he went on to entertain as a television and radio presenter, the comedian presenting game show Blankety Blank in the late 90s, and hosting his own show, The Paul O-Grady Show. During his long career he also made his name presenting Blind Date and For the Love of Dogs.
Tributes to the comedian and presenter have poured in from fans, celebs and even royals. The Royal Family tweeted on Wednesday morning: "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." The post was accompanied by a picture of Camilla, Queen Consort with Paul and a four-legged friend.
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