Paul O’Grady’s final TV project has been announced by ITV.
The late TV presenter’s final show, a two part documentary, was filmed by the station in 2022.
O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on March 28 and laid to rest at a service attended by a host of O’Grady’s celebrity friends including Julian Clary, Ronnie Wood, Alan Carr and Dame Sheila Hancock,
He will be seen on the new ITV series Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure later this year.
The documentary will follow O’Grady’s travels through Thailand and Laos “to celebrate the work done by elephant conservation centres to rescue, rehabilitate and protect these most majestic, but vulnerable, of animals," ITV said in a press release.
“Thailand has the largest number of elephant rescue centres in the world while Laos is nicknamed the land of a million elephants, and each episode sees Paul travel across the region to roll up his sleeves and muck in to help out at a different rescue centre,” the broadcaster continued.
“Along the way, Paul also heads out from the sanctuaries to grab a slice of local life by exploring nearby colourful markets, temples, apothecaries and sampling the local cuisine.
“Each episode highlights a particular challenge faced by elephants in the region and as ever – Paul’s love for animals shines throughout the series. The tone is warm, playful and heartfelt and always characterised by his much-loved wit and humour.”
Their statement also revealed that the project is “one that he was incredibly passionate about.”
On April 13, the star was seen in the final episodes of Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs.
His husband of five years Andre Portasio, confirmed his death earlier this year. “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening,” he had said in a statement at the time.
“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.”
