Paul O’Grady’s friend has revealed he was “laughing, smiling and full of life” just hours before he died suddenly at the age of 67.
The TV star’s death was confirmed his partner Andre Portasio this morning, who said Paul passed away “unexpectedly” on Tuesday evening.
The broadcaster, who was born in Tranmere, was known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage.
Paul O’Grady the much-loved presenter and comedian unexpectedly passed away peacefully at the age of 67.
We are sending lots of love to Paul’s husband, and all his family and friends ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ZV4fuiN00j
— ITV (@ITV) March 29, 2023
Before Drag Race and social media it was rare for queens to break through into mainstream media, Paul was one of the few leading the way and smashing down barriers. Everyone loved him, but he preferred animals. RIP Paul O’Grady AKA the legendary Lily Savage, you will be missed 💔 pic.twitter.com/CXwe1LsKoc
— Tom Knight (@TJ_Knight) March 29, 2023
He also hosted a number of TV shows during his over 30-year career span – including The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and For The Love Of Dogs.
Paul was performing right until the end as he was playing Ms Hannigan in a stage production of Annie, and was set to return to the airwaves next month to host a one-off Easter Sunday special on Boom Radio.
Malcolm Prince, who was Paul’s long-time radio producer, has since admitted he’s in disbelief over the news after visiting him only yesterday.
In a statement shared on social media, he wrote: “I’m devastated. Yesterday afternoon I popped round to Paul’s for a good old catch-up. Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling and full of life.”
A few words…#PaulOGradyRIP pic.twitter.com/kA3Oq0HK3f
— Malcolm Prince (@malprin) March 29, 2023
“He was so proud of Annie, so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects. And now he’s gone. I can’t believe it.”
“We have lost a unique talent – and I’ve lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives. My heart goes out to Andre, Paul’s family, and friends. Oh how I’ll miss him.”
Paul’s death comes just one week after his performance in Annie was branded “fabulous” as audience members said he was “sharp and as funny as ever”.
Everyone at Annie The Musical is stunned and saddened by the passing of Paul O’Grady. An incredible Miss Hannigan and an irreplaceable, hilarious and generous person who we will all miss immensely.
Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this very sad time. pic.twitter.com/2I49ST626H
— Annie The Musical (@AnnieMusicalUK) March 29, 2023
Paul’s husband Andre, who he married in 2017, praised his “humour, wit and compassion” in a statement announcing his death in the early hours of this morning.
He wrote: “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,” Andre added.
