Tributes have poured in following the death of TV presenter and comedian Paul O'Grady. His partner Andre Porasio issued a statement saying he died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday (March 28) evening.
Paul, 67, was born in Birkenhead, Merseyside, in 1955 and was known for his wit and his love of animals. He became a household name in the early noughties.
The comedian and TV personality first rose to prominence as his drag queen persona Lily Savage in the 1980s and 1990s before going on to host a string of television programmes. He was well known for his self-titled daytime chat show, The Paul O’Grady Show, which began airing in 2004, followed by the New Paul O’Grady Show.
Read more: Paul O’Grady: Tributes pour in after TV star dies ‘unexpectedly' aged 67
He took over the reins from Blind Date’s long-running presenter and his close friend Cilla Black, who died in 2015, to host the Channel 5 reboot of the show in 2017. Throughout his career, O’Grady picked up various accolades including a TV Bafta, a British Comedy Award, and a National Television Award for The Paul O’Grady Show.
Paul kept dogs, pigs, bats, ferrets and more at his farm near Ashford. His latest success, the award-winning show For The Love Of Dogs, was a TV staple and showcased his compassion and affinity for animals.
We know Paul O'Grady touched the lives of many during his long career and that this is a story that has upset the entire country. NottinghamshireLive wanted to give readers the chance to pay tribute and send messages of condolence to his family and friends.
Simply leave your well wishes, condolences and tributes below in the comments section.
