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Simon Duke

Paul O'Grady's Blankety Blank to air as BBC pull programme to honour late Lily Savage star

Paul O'Grady will be honoured by the BBC this weekend, as they make a change to the schedule to pay tribute to the late TV icon with one of his most famous shows.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, the sad news broke that much loved entertainer and staunch activist Paul had passed away at the age of 67, with Paul's husband Andre Portasio telling the world: "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.”

READ MORE: Denise Welch lets slip Paul O'Grady secret that risked ITV chaos

Paul's death dominated programmes on Wednesday, as tributes poured in from both fans and famous faces and, on Wednesday afternoon, ITV confirmed they'd be making changes to their programming in his honour, with a royal special of For The Love of Dogs airing instead of The Chase, and a special about Paul - For The Love of Paul O'Grady, to air on April 9.

And now the BBC have revealed that they will pay their own tribute to the man famous for giving the world Lily Savage, by airing an iconic episode of Blankety Blank, with Lily as host. The nostalgia filled show will replace the scheduled latest episode of Blankety Blank, with that shelved.

The classic episode will feature Davina McCall, Sir Ian McKellen, Gray O'Brien, Rebecca Callard, Sophie Lawrence and Dale Winton and air on BBC One at 7pm.

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