Paul O'Grady was suffering with an illness during his final year at Radio 2, it has been reported.
The star who was well known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening, according to a statement.
Prior to his sad death, the TV and radio legend had been shocked by how badly Covid-19 affected him and how long its effects lasted.
The 67-year-old presenter, who has previously had two heart attacks, was unable to work for two months last year.
He then got in touch with his cardiologist due to feeling like he may never recover.
Paul said: "I managed to escape Covid until last year and then I caught it. I didn’t half get it; I was really ill.
"It wiped me out, I was shocked at how bad I was. I was a good two months getting over it. My breath had gone.
"I’d go out to feed the pigs and I’d have to sit down two or three times on my way there, wheezing."
Paul then went for an X-ray and was diagnosed as a recovering Covid victim.
The TV presenter then spend the summer recuperating at his Kent farm.
He recalled: "All I did was sleep. I’d wake up, go downstairs and sit on the couch and then pass out for another four hours. I’d get up, have a cup of tea and then go back to bed and sleep all night, it was very odd. I just felt terrible with it. I’ve never slept so much in my life. I’d had all the jabs, but it just finished me off."
Paul caught the virus in July while in Malta filming the second series of Sally Lindsay’s The Madame Blanc Mysteries.
Announcing the news of Paul's death in a statement, his partner Andre Portasio said: "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."
