Heartbroken family, friends and fans have paid tribute to the iconic TV presenter and comedian Paul O'Grady who died yesterday evening aged 67.
O'Grady had stolen the hearts of UK audiences after presenting much loved TV Shows such as The Paul O'Grady Show, For the Love of Dogs, and Blankety Blank, which he hosted as his hilarious drag act, Lily Savage.
His partner, Andre Portasio, described his passing as "unexpected but peaceful", the Mirror reports.
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Mr Portasio confirmed the news during the early hours of the morning on Wednesday March 29. He issued this statement: “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.”
Those who had worked with the performer and fans of O’Grady - who recently appeared in a production of Annie at Edinburgh’s Playhouse portraying Miss Hannigan - paid their respects, calling the presenter witty, compassionate and kind.
ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly described O’Grady as “a really special man” in an online tribute.
“Such sad news. Paul O’Grady – funny, fearless, brave, kind and wise,” she said.
“Will be sorely missed. A really special man.”
Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said: “Paul wasn’t just a brilliant comedian and broadcast personality but a much admired campaigner for LGBT+ equality and animal rights.
“He supported my work for many decades and was a valued patron of the Peter Tatchell Foundation.
“Paul was planning to lead our forthcoming campaign for the police to apologise for their historic persecution of the LGBT+ community. We will miss him. Our sincere condolences to his partner Andre and to all who loved him.
“Paul was one of the loveliest people you could ever meet. Everyone whose lives he touched will miss him greatly, as will those who enjoyed his wit and admired his compassion.”
Tributes also poured in on social media, with one fan tweeting: "Genuinely devastated at the loss of Paul O Grady, he was always a staple in our household from his days as Lilly Savage to his chat shows on BBC and STV and of course his time at Battersea on For The Love of Dogs, never missed an episode, thinking of his family say hi to buster".
Another said: "The wonderful Paul O Grady . I had the pleasure of working with him in Panto and he was wonderful in every way . An absolute Star . RIP beautiful Man x."
A third wrote: "Waking this morning to the sad news that Paul O Grady has died. One of the greatest entertainers & campaigners. RIP Paul, you will be truly missed by so many".
A fourth said: "So incredibly sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Paul O' Grady. Met him many times when he performed cabaret shows in London an Brighton. Sleep well Lily x."
Another twitter user paid the touching tribute: "This really is a gut punch. Out of drag. You were a teatime comfort for then closeted me. In glorious drag. You had me in complete hysterics, with skits/one-liners that I still revisit to this day. Which is pure testament to what a talent they were. Thank you Paul O Grady."
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