Paul O’Grady, the television star and comedian, passes away at age 67.
In a 30-year career, the celebrity-hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date, and For The Love Of Dogs under the alias Lily Savage and hosted the popular comedy game show Blankety Blank under the alias Lily Savage in the late 1990s.
The comedian and television star Paul O’Grady has died at the age of 67, according to his partner Andre Portasio.
In a statement, he stated that the celebrity, best known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening.
Merseyside-born presenter Savage hosted several game shows, including Blankety Blank, in the late 1990s, including Blankety Blank.
Over more than three decades, he hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date, and For the Love of Dogs.
He also appeared on television programs like Dr. Who and Holby City.
Mr. Portasio, who wed Ms. O’Grady in 2017, commented: “Paul died yesterday evening unexpectedly but peacefully, and it is with great regret that I inform you of this news.
“In this difficult time, we ask that you honor his life while respecting our privacy as we come to terms with our loss.
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“His loved ones, friends, family, animals, and all those who appreciated his humor, wit, and compassion will miss him greatly.
“He would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years,” I believe.
Additionally, O’Grady leaves behind his daughter Sharon, whom he had in 1974 with his close friend Diane Jansen, and two grandchildren.
In 1977, he reportedly married the Portuguese model Teresa Fernandes in what he termed a “marriage of convenience” to prevent her deportation; they divorced in 2005.
O’Grady stated that he wished to assist Fernandes, a lesbian from a strict Catholic family who felt pressure to marry.
In 2012, O’Grady discussed his health following two heart attacks.
Following the publication of his third book, he stated: “Worrying while sedentary is the worst course of action possible.
“When they place me on the treadmill every eight months, I take medication and undergo examinations. I tell them, “Heart attack or not, I’m a complete failure on treadmills!”
His father passed away when he was in his late teens, and his mother, whose maiden name was Savage, passed away when he was 33 years old.
It is believed that the name inspired his famous drag alter ego, which contributed to his mainstream success.
‘We have lost a unique talent’
Malcolm Prince, a longtime friend, and producer paid tribute to O’Grady after visiting him at home yesterday.
Prince stated: “I stopped by Paul’s house for a quick catch-up. He was laughing, smiling, and full of life, surrounded by his cherished dogs. He was excited about so many upcoming projects.
“And now that he has left, I cannot believe it. We have lost a unique talent – and I’ve lost a dear friend. All of us were fortunate to have Paul in our lives.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Andre, Paul’s family, and friends. How I will miss him!”
Advancement of Paul O’Grady
In the 1970s, he began his career as Lily Savage, which gained popularity at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern cabaret club, where he was a prominent advocate for LGBT+ issues.
The Savage persona propelled him to television and radio while remaining in character, and in 1995 he took over as host of The Big Breakfast.
Blankety Blank, which ran until 2002, highlighted his dry sense of humor.
The Paul O’Grady Show in 2004 and Paul O’Grady Live in 2010 featured celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Tom Jones, and Michael McIntyre as guests.
In 2008, the presenter was awarded an MBE for services to entertainment, adding to his list of accolades for The Paul O’Grady Show, which included a TV Bafta, a British Comedy Award, and a National Television Award.
In a special episode of For The Love Of Dogs last year, O’Grady honored the 160th anniversary of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home with the Queen Consort.
Additional tributes have been paid to the beloved comedian.
Peter Tatchell, an advocate for human rights, remarked, “Paul was not only a brilliant comedian and broadcast personality, but also an admired advocate for LGBT+ equality and animal rights.”
Lorraine Kelly of ITV described him as “a truly exceptional man” who is “funny, fearless, courageous, kind, and wise.”
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