TV Star and Comedian Paul O’Grady Dies at 67

In a statement by O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio on Tuesday, the star died “unexpectedly but peacefully.”

Paul O’Grady was an English comedian, broadcaster, actor, writer and drag queen. He was best known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, through which he gained broader popularity in the 1990s.

Later in his career, he went on to present several television and radio shows, including the Paul O’Grady Show. He also featured on Dr. Who and Holby City.

Mr. Portasio 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 the loss.”

“He will be greatly missed by his loved ones friends, family, animals, and all those who enjoyed his humor, wit and compassion. I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.

The TV star left behind a daughter Sharon, who he had with his friend Diane Jansen in 1974. He was also once married to a Portuguese lesbian model in a marriage of convenience in 1977, and legally divorced her in 2005. He married his husband at a ceremony in London in 2017.

Tributes have poured in for the late TV star from colleagues. His long-time friend and producer, Malcolm Prince said he had visited him at home on Tuesday afternoon. He wrote “Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling and full of life.”

“He was proud of ‘Annie’, so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and 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.”

The royal family said “Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O’Grady, who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea_ providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories.”

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