Blankety Blank viewers were in tears moments into tonight's special episode.
The popular BBC programme sees contestants aim to fill in the blanks of statements read out by a panel of celebrities. The show was revamped in 2020 and is now hosted by Bradley Walsh.
However, the BBC replaced tonight's scheduled broadcast to show a previous version of the programme when it was hosted by the late, great Paul O'Grady. The Birkenhead icon fronted the programme under his drag alter-ego Lily Savage from 1997 - 2002.
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The world of showbiz was reeling this week after the devastating news Paul had died aged 67. The BBC aired the special tribute to celebrate the legacy of the national treasure.
An announcer stated at the start of the show: "Now we pay tribute to the incomparable Paul O'Grady. Blankety Blank hosted by force of nature Lily Savage."
Lily welcomed a celebrity panel of Davina McCall, Sir Ian McKellen, Gray O’Brien, Rebecca Callard, Sophie Lawrence and Dale Winton on the special episode.
Viewers following the show on Twitter praised the moving tribute and were moved to tears during the episode.
Gillian said: "This is making me feel sad"
Jon added: "Tears of laughter have momentarily replaced the tears of loss. Absolute force, there will never be better. Thanks for the gold Paul"
Aj commented: "I'm crying"
Colm posted; "There may be tears, indeed."
The BBC broadcast a tribute to Paul O'Grady at the end of the episode, which also sparked an emotional response from viewers.
Julie said: "Oh God I'm in tears watching Lily"
Tre_animation added: "I'm not crying, YOU'RE crying"
Abie posted: "Oh, now I'm crying! The tribute at the end!"
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