TV Star And Comedian Paul O'Grady Has Died At The Age Of 67

TV star and comedian Paul O'Grady has died at the age of 67, his partner Andre Portasio has said.

In a statement, he said the star, known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening.

The Tranmere-born presenter hosted a number of game shows, including Blankety Blank in the late 90s under the guise of Savage.

His career spanned more than 30 years, during which he hosted The Paul O'Grady Show, Blind Date and For The Love Of Dogs.

He also featured on TV shows like Dr Who and Holby City.

Mr Portasio, who tied the knot with Mr O'Grady in 2017 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."

Mr O'Grady commemorated 160 years of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home with Queen Consort, Camilla in a special episode of For The Love Of Dogs last year.

'We have lost a unique talent'

Long-time friend and producer, Malcolm Prince, offered his tribute to Mr O'Grady having visited him at his home only yesterday.

Mr Prince said:

"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. 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."

The rise of Paul O'Grady

He began his career as Lily Savage in the 1970s and the act later gained traction at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern cabaret club, where he was a prominent advocate of LGBT issues.

The Savage persona propelled him to TV and radio whilst he remained in character, and he took over as The Big Breakfast presenter in 1995.

Blankety Blank, which ran until 2002, would showcase his dry humour.

Comedy chat shows would follow with The Paul O'Grady Show in 2004, and Paul O'Grady Live in 2010, which featured guests like Kylie Minogue, Tom Jones and Michael McIntyre.

The presenter was honoured with an MBE for services to entertainment in 2008, adding to a list of achievements including a TV Bafta, a British Comedy Award, and a National Television Award for The Paul O'Grady Show.

Further tributes have poured in for the much-loved comedian.

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."

ITV's Lorraine Kelly described him as "a really special man" and "funny, fearless, brave, kind and wise" adding that it was "such sad news".

Commenting on Mr O'Grady's affectionate nature towards animals she added:

"I always think dogs are the best judge of character and they ADORED him."

Money-saving expert, Martin Lewis tweeted his sadness at Mr O'Grady's death:

"Quite shocked and saddened to wake up to the news of Paul O'Grady passing. A funny man, with incredibly quick wit, who made millions laugh."

Charlotte Hawkins of Good Morning Britain said:

"Oh no, such sad news to wake up to that the magnificent Paul O'Grady has died at the age of 67. What a warm-hearted, hugely talented and funny man he was. Plus a dog-lover of course."

(c) Sky News 2023: TV star and comedian Paul O'Grady has died at the age of 67