Tributes have been paid to popular TV presenter and comedian Paul O’Grady, who passed away aged 67.
O’Grady’s partner Andre Portasio confirmed the sad news of the star’s death via this statement.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening”, Portasio said.
“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 also added, “He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion”, he added. “I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years”.
Known and Loved
Paul O’Grady was known and loved for a steller career in TV and radio, including his starring alter ego Lily Savage, a role that he performed throughout the 1970s, along with being asked to succeed Paula Yates as The Big Breakfast Host in the 1990s.
He hosted his own Sunday afternoon show on BBC Radio Two for 14 years, before stepping down last August.
The Birkinhead born comedian who had family roots in counties Louth and Roscommon, also had his own self-titled chat show moved to Channel Four in 2005, The Paul O’Grady Show.
Tributes Paid To O’Grady
Following news of his death, tributes were paid in their droves to Paul O’Grady, including the British Royal Family, who said that the Queen’s Consort would be sharing their sympathies with his family privately.
O’Grady had a close bond with Britain’s Queen Consort, who worked closely with him supporting Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who described O’Grady as a “devoted animal lover” and a champion for the underdog”.
“Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O’Grady, who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea–, providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories”, the British Royal Family also said in a statement.
Other stars who also paid homage to O’Grady include Elton John, Lorraine Kelly, Gabby Roslin, Vernon Kay, Carol Vorderman, Paddy McGuinnes among others.
Check them out below.
Such sad news. Paul O’Grady – funny, fearless, brave, kind and wise. Will be sorely missed. A really special man.
— Lorraine (@reallorraine) March 29, 2023
https://twitter.com/carolvorders/status/1640939229566889986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1640939229566889986%7Ctwgr%5Ee0cefd37781c2a12c003a55a51fe095e4f5072d2%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rte.ie%2Fentertainment%2F2023%2F0329%2F1366931-tributes-to-champion-for-the-underdog-paul-ogrady%2F
Paul O’Grady was one of the nicest and kindest people I’ve ever met. Always a joy to be around and obviously, so much fun. He will be missed. Telly and friends have lost one of the best….RIP❤️
— Vernon Kay (@vernonkay) March 29, 2023
https://twitter.com/PaddyMcGuinness/status/1640965616239509505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1640965616239509505%7Ctwgr%5Ee0cefd37781c2a12c003a55a51fe095e4f5072d2%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rte.ie%2Fentertainment%2F2023%2F0329%2F1366931-tributes-to-champion-for-the-underdog-paul-ogrady%2F
Paul O’Grady also won several accolades in his career, including a TV BAFTA, National Comedy Award, and a National Televison Award for The Paul O’Grady Show.
