Featured Image Credit: ITV/Instagram/@paulogrady
Topics: Celebrity, News, Animals, TV And Film
Joe Harker
Topics: Celebrity, News, Animals, TV And Film
Viewers of ITV were left heartbroken after the broadcaster paid tribute to Paul O'Grady following the announcement of his death.
The much-loved TV presenter passed away 'unexpectedly' at the age of 67 and news of his death prompted an outpouring of affection for O'Grady and the career he's had over the years.
His husband Andre Portasio released a statement on 29 March saying he would be 'greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals', as well as 'all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion'.
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The star became a household name in the 90s, especially his drag-queen alter ego Lily Savage, for shows such as Blankety Blank and The Lily Savage Show.
His popularity only grew throughout the years with The Paul O'Grady Show and hosting the revival of Blind Date, as well as having his Sunday afternoon slot on BBC Radio 2.
In tribute to O'Grady an episode of his animal show Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs was aired following the news of his death and it was plenty enough to make fans emotional.
Plenty of people tuned in and were given a perfect example of why they loved seeing O'Grady on their screens, with people saying they 'can't help but have a little tear' at seeing the 'one of a kind' presenter.
Someone else watching the tribute episode said it reminded them of 'what a wonderful man & animal advocate' O'Grady had been during his life.
Another said they were 'absolutely gutted to hear this news' and praised the presenter for the 'caring, love and kindness' he showed on For the Love of Dogs.
Others said 'my heart aches watching it today' and that he 'really was one of the good ones in this world'.
Fans of the presenter will know of his long-running adoration of our faithful canine companions, especially his beloved dogs Buster and Olga who regularly appeared on The Paul O'Grady Show.
He has long been an ambassador for Battersea Cats and Dogs Home and personally took care of many dogs over the course of his life.
In addition to the episode of Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs which was aired following news of the presenter's death, ITV has also announced a tribute show For the Love of Paul O'Grady.
The broadcaster also confirmed that the upcoming series of For the Love of Dogs which had already been filmed would still be aired.