BBC pays tribute to Paul O'Grady as former employer 'shocked and saddened' by his death

The BBC has paid tribute to much-loved presenter Paul O'Grady, who died "unexpectedly but peacefully" aged 67 on Tuesday night.

Celebrities and fans have been offering their sympathies after hearing the heartbreaking news.

During his career, he hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV ’s multi-award-winning For The Love Of Dogs.

In August of last year, Paul presented his final BBC Radio 2 show having hosted the Sunday afternoon programme for nearly 14 years.

In a statement, Lorna Clarke, director of music at the BBC said the corporation was “shocked and saddened” by O’Grady’s death.

Paul O'Grady has died aged 67 (Getty Images)

Tributes have been pouring in for the much loved presenter (Dave Benett/Getty Images)

She added: “He was a much-loved presenter to the Radio 2 audience, and his unique sense of humour, charm and warmth touched the hearts of many.

“Paul will be hugely missed and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time.”

Ms Clarke said Radio 2 presenters Jeremy Vine and Zoe Ball will pay tribute to O’Grady, who broadcast his last show at the station in August, during their programmes this morning.

Paul's last show on Radio 2 was in August 2022, months before his death (Instagram)

The comedian-turned-presenter struggled with ill health during his final 12 months at Radio 2.

Prior to his sad death, he had been shocked by how badly Covid-19 affected him and how long its effects lasted.

The 67-year-old presenter, who has previously had two heart attacks, was unable to work for two months last year.

Tributes from fellow presenters have been sharing their memories of Paul.

Radio presenter Vernon Kay described him as "always a joy to be around".

In a tribute on Twitter, Vernon said: “Paul O’Grady was one of the nicest and kindest people I’ve ever met.

Paul has been described as a 'joy' to be around (Paul O'Grady)

“Always a joy to be around and obviously, so much fun. He will be missed.

“Telly and friends have lost one of the best….RIP.”

Susanna Reid said on Good Morning Britain: "He was so funny and so compassionate and so loving".

ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly described O’Grady as “a really special man” in an online tribute.

“Such sad news. Paul O’Grady – funny, fearless, brave, kind and wise,” she said.

“Will be sorely missed. A really special man."