Former star of BBC medical drama Casualty Amanda Mealing has announced a touching tribute to best friend Paul O’Grady. The comedian and broadcaster passed away last month at the age of 67.
Posting on Instagram, Amanda apologised for not posting much in recent weeks. The 56-year-old actress, who played Connie Beauchamp in Casualty, has regularly updated her followers on her bid to raise money for Breast Cancer Now by taking part in charity event Walk the Walk.
The charity previously helped Amanda when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. She is currently asking her fans for donations with the money currently standing at £1,600 at the time of publication.
Read more: TV star Paul O’Grady passes away 'unexpectedly but peacefully' at the age of 67
“Sorry… but my bestie Paul O’Grady died recently, so that kind of took over things,” Amanda explained in a video on the social media platform. “I am still very much doing the Moonwalk with my sisters and my brother.”
She continued: “And in honour of O’Grady’s memory, I’ve convinced the others to dress as Paul, Cilla Black and Barbara Windsor in the costumes they wore for the Royal Variety performance when they did the Gotta Get a Gimmick number. It’s surprising how quickly my brother Marcus volunteered to dress as Paul O’Grady. I’m going to dress up as Gypsy Rose Lee.”
Amanda and husband Richard Sainsbury have two sons, Otis and Milo, who are in their twenties. Paul O’Grady was their godfather. Following Paul’s death, Amanda has continually spoke about their friendship. On the day of his funeral she called him "the keeper of my secrets and soother of my fears. My greatest friend… I will miss you so.”
Paul's partner Andre Portasio shared the tragic news of the star's passing in a statement on March 29. “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening,” Mr Portasio said in his statement.
“We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss. 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.” You can keep up to date with the latest TV and showbiz news by signing up to the newsletter here.
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