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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Niamh Spence & James McNeill

Blankety Blank fans emotional at tribute to Paul O'Grady as he reunites with TV icon

TV viewers have been left feeling nostalgic as BBC One aired a rerun of a classic episode of Blankety Blank featuring Paul O'Grady alongside celebrity guests including Dale Winton.

The episode also featured Sir Ian McKellen, Davina McCall, Gray O’Brien, Rebecca Callard and Sophie Lawrence. Paul had the audience in fits of giggles with his cheeky quips and comments. The BBC chose to air the episode in a change up to its scheduled viewing after Paul O'Grady passed away this week, aged 67. Viewers were left gushing after seeing Paul back on TV as well as presenter Dale Winton, who passed away in April 2018.

READ MORE: Paul O'Grady's daughter breaks silence over TV star's sudden death

One fan tweeted: "Ian McKellen, Paul O’Grady and Dale Winton all co-existing on the same episode of #BlanketyBlank.. what a moment in time." Another added: "Lily Savage and Dale Winton back on Saturday night prime time. Felt like I was back at my nana and grandads."

"So much joy seeing Lily Savage's Blankety Blank on BBC One. Challenge show the ITV editions regularly, but the BBC editions should all be put up on iPlayer!" said a third. Another wrote: "Watching Blankety Blank with Lily Savage, how I remember Saturday night tv, what a tribute to Paul O'Grady".

The BBC aired the episode in tribute to Paul O'Grady with a touching slide at the end of the programme featuring the late comedian. ITV have confirmed that they will air a special to honour the TV presenter on Sunday, April 2, titled For the Love of Paul O’Grady.

Earlier this week, O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio confirmed the star's death in a statement. He said: "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."

Fans of the late TV presenter and celebrity pals, including Gavin & Stacey star Rob Brydon and former Great British Bake Off host Sandi Toksvig have paid tribute to Paul since the news of his death broke earlier this week.

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