Paul O’Grady has died. (Getty)
Paul O’Grady, the comedian and presenter known for his trailblazing drag act Lily Savage, has died aged 67.
Paul O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday (28 March) evening. He had recently been touring in a production of Annie, playing Miss Hannigan.
His husband, Andre Portasio, paid tribute in a statement: “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.”
Peter Tatchell called him a “much admired campaigner for LGBT+ equality and animal rights”.
Broadcaster Lorraine Kelly called him “funny, fearless, brave, kind and wise”.
“Will be sorely missed. A really special man,” she added.
Born in Birkenhead, Paul O’Grady rose to fame in the 80s as the acid-tongued drag queen Lily Savage.
She became a national institution, hosting the game show Blankety Blank.
O’Grady retired Lily Savage in the early aughts, becoming a fixture of daytime TV with his eponymous chat show.
Source: thepinknews.com
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