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British Entertainer Paul O’Grady Dies Unexpectedly at Age 67
Unexpected Passing of a British TV Mainstay
Paul O’Grady, the famous British presenter and comedian, has passed away at the age of 67. His death was confirmed by his partner Andre Portasio, who stated that O’Grady died peacefully on Tuesday evening. O’Grady had been an entertainment fixture in British television, hosting popular shows such as “The Paul O’Grady Show” and “Blind Date” reboot on Channel 5. Additionally, he had served as the host of ITV’s “For the Love of Dogs,” where he demonstrated his passion for animal welfare and rights.
A Fond Farewell to a Beloved Figure
Portasio confirmed his partner’s death and issued a heartfelt statement. The statement, in part, read, “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening…He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humor, wit, and compassion.” The statement also contained a message of gratitude to O’Grady’s admirers on behalf of his loved ones.
A Life Devoted to Performing and Advocacy
O’Grady was born to working-class Irish migrants in 1955 and moved to London in the late 1970s, where he worked in various positions in social services, the civil service, and at various bars. He created his drag persona, Lily Savage, in 1978, and performed with her in the 1980s and 1990s. During his eight-year tenure at South London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern, Savage became famous for promoting gay rights.
He moved outside of Savage for his later works, including presenting “The Paul O’Grady Show” and ITV’s travelogues. Channel 5 brought back the popular dating show “Blind Date,” with O’Grady as its host, to much fanfare in 2017. From 2012, he had been the presenter of ITV’s hugely popular “For the Love of Dogs” program, which is set to start its latest season in early 2023.
Credit: https://variety.com/2023/tv/global/paul-ogrady-dead-1235567532/
