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Paul O’Grady shared a heartbreaking final social media post before he died.
Today (29 March), it was announced that the TV personality, best known for his drag queen alter-ego Lily Savage, passed away 'unexpectedly' at the age of 67.
Andre Portasio, who has been married to O'Grady since 2017, said in a statement released in the early hours of this morning: "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 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."
As well as his hosting on the likes of Blankety Blank, Blind Date, The Paul O'Grady Show, The Lily Savage Show, the UK star was known for his love of animals.
This was reflected in his last Instagram post, shared on 13 March, in which he mourned the loss of one of his pigs.
The For The Love Of Dogs presenter and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home ambassador uploaded a clip of the pet piggy, named Tom Tom.
Alongside the video, he wrote: "Got back from a week in Newcastle playing Miss Hannigan in Annie to find that Tom Tom, one of my pigs had been put to sleep.
"I knew it was coming as he’d been diagnosed with a tumour but even so it’s awful when you lose a pet.
"He was the cheekiest of the gang and one of the other pigs who was obviously very fond of him is now depressed and gone into mourning and there’s those who say that animals don’t have feelings."
O'Grady added: "On a lighter note I’m thoroughly enjoying playing Hannigan again after so long especially with a truly amazing and lovely cast. Next stop Edinburgh."
The post is a heartbreaking tribute in retrospect, showing just how sudden the TV host's passing was.
Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie shared a statement with PA which reads: "Battersea will forever remember Paul as a devoted animal lover with the biggest heart, who fell head over heels in love with every dog he met at our centres.
"Paul will always be associated with Battersea and we are truly saddened to have lost such a true friend and huge part of our charity."
He added: "Paul had an extremely hands-on approach as a Battersea Ambassador and has been fundamental in helping our charity to communicate important campaign messages.
"He was a champion for the underdog and would do anything to ensure all animals live a healthy and happy life. He will be dearly missed."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Featured Image Credit: Instagram/paulogradyTopics: Celebrity, News, Animals, TV And Film
Daisy Phillipson