ITV has announced that Paul O’Grady's last television project will air this Easter, accompanied by a feature-length tribute honouring the entertainment legend.
The beloved comedian and broadcaster died from a cardiac arrhythmia at his home last March aged 67.
A year on from his passing, it has been confirmed that a 90-minute special, titled The Life and Death of Lily Savage, paying tribute his memory will air this month.
The documentary will delve into O'Grady's life, focusing on his iconic drag queen alter ego, Lily Savage, against the backdrop of 1970s Britain.
For the first time, O'Grady's daughter, Sharyn Mousley, will share insights about her father in the one-off.
Additionally, the special will uncover the real reason behind O'Grady's decision to retire Lily Savage after over two decades.
Alongside the tribute, viewers can anticipate O'Grady's final TV project, Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure.
This two-part series follows O'Grady as he explores Thailand and Laos, highlighting the remarkable efforts of elephant conservation centers.
Speaking about the documentary in his memory, Jo Clinton-Davis, ITV’s Controller of Factual said: “This blue chip feature-length documentary reveals the little known biography of Paul's alter ego Lily - from her birth in the docks of Liverpool to her mysterious 'death' on mainstream TV.
“Set against the background of social and political change and upheaval, it features Paul's own voice and those who were closest to him - including his daughter Sharyn. This is a layered and richly entertaining tribute to the wonderful Paul O Grady.”
While Clare Barton, Executive Producer at Silver Star, added: “It was an honour and a privilege to make Paul’s final TV project with him out in SE Asia, coupled with the opportunity to pay tribute to him with a deep dive into the life of his most famous creation - Lily Savage.
“It has been very emotional and moving to interview the people who knew him best and to delve into the golden archive of Paul in his absolute prime.”
