The late comedian was ‘looking forward to so many new projects’ (Picture: Ken McKay/Shutterstock)
Paul O’Grady was ‘laughing and smiling’ on the day he died, while surrounded by his ‘beloved’ dogs, his radio producer has said.
On Tuesday March 28, the renowned comedian, celebrated for his drag persona Lily Savage, died at the age of 67.
His partner Andre Portasi said in a 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.’
Tributes have been pouring in from well-known individuals including Carol Vorderman and Lorraine Kelly, with Les Dennis tweeting: ‘He was a true comedy great and his twinkly ,mischievous presence will be missed by so many.’
In a tweet published in the early hours of Wednesday morning, radio producer Malcolm Prince shared that he visited O’Grady on the day that he died.
Prince worked as a producer for O’Grady on the radio, and has also worked with the likes of Graham Norton, Alan Carr and Elaine Page.
‘Yesterday afternoon I popped round to Paul’s for a good old catch-up,’ he wrote.
‘Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life.’
The radio producer said that the late TV personality was ‘so proud’ of Annie, having been due to star as Miss Hannigan in the theatrical production, and was ‘so happy to be back on Boom radio’.
O’Grady had been cast as Miss Hannigan in the touring production of Annie (Picture: Matt Crockett)
O’Grady was also said to have been ‘looking forward to so many new projects’.
‘And now he’s gone, I can’t believe it,’ Prince continued.
‘We have lost a unique talent – and I’ve lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives.’
Prince concluded his message by writing: ‘My heart goes out to Andre, Paul’s family, and friends. Oh how I’ll miss him.’
The broadcaster also shared the last photo that he had taken with his friend, as O’Grady posed with his arm around Prince’s shoulders.
Several people sent Prince their condolences, including singer Aled Jones, who tweeted: ‘Sending you all my love.’
The beloved TV personality soared to stardom as Lily Savage (Picture: TV Times via Getty Images)
TV and radio host Greg Scott commented: ‘Oh Malcolm. What can one say? I’m feeling his loss myself – I can’t imagine how *you* must be feeling. Take great care. Much love xx.’
Ryan Wilson, producer of The Jeremy Vine Show, added: ‘Desperately sorry for your loss, friend. What a partnership.’
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Throughout his career, O’Grady fronted TV shows including The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank.
He also made a name for himself as a vocal animal lover, having hosted For The Love of Dogs on the small screen and been an ambassador for Battersea Cats and Dogs Home.
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The late comedian was ‘looking forward to so many new projects’.