Former Miss Ireland Amanda Brunker has recalled meeting the late Paul O’Grady in the early hours of the morning while in London.
Brunker was among the famous Irish stars who paid tribute to O’Grady in the wake of his sudden death on Monday.
Amanda recalled meeting the 67-year-old “comedy legend” in London at a breakfast club.
READ MORE: Spain holiday hotspot is cheapest destination in Europe with bargain food and free activities
She wrote: “Had the absolute pleasure of meeting Paul O’Grady once in London, in a breakfast club around 6:30am. He was such a gent, and so proud of his Irish heritage. He will forever remain a comedy legend and all round good egg.”
His father Paddy was born in Roscommon, while his mother Molly was raised by Irish parents. O’Grady previously told how he would visit Ireland every summer to see his grandparents and had even considered moving here.
“I’ve lots of family in Ireland – mainly from Roscommon and a couple in Dublin. I’ve such a good time over there,” he told Independent.ie last October.
“We were considering buying my grandad’s house in Roscommon. It was a lovely cut-stone farmhouse, but they were using it for cattle storage. It didn’t have a roof and everything had fallen to bits. I also thought when would I go there, and what would I do?”
Former Mrs Browns Boys star Rory Cowan said O’Grady was “diseased with talent”.
Reacting to the news of the TV star’s death, he said: “Oh no, that’s terrible news. Paul O’Grady was one of the funniest comedians ever. He was diseased with talent. It oozed out of every pore of his body. A very funny and kind man died tonight. So sad”.
Comedian Jason Byrne wrote: “Paul was the nicest man I ever met, so kind and funny. Can’t believe this news,” he added.
RTE star Ray D’Arcy described him as a “big hearted man”.
He said: “Of course, he was an animal lover and a lover of dogs… it was sudden but peaceful.”
The sad news was confirmed by the TV star and comedian’s husband Andre Portasio in a statement on Wednesday morning.
He said: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
“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,” Andre added.
The producer of Paul O’Grady’s Radio 2 and Boom Radio shows, Malcolm Prince revealed he visited the TV legend hours before his sad passing.
Malcolm tweeted: “I’m devastated. Yesterday afternoon, I popped round to Paul’s for a good old catch-up. Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life.
"He was so proud of [stage musical] Annie, so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects. And now he’s gone. I can’t believe it.”
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has paid tribute to Paul O’Grady.
Battersea Chief Executive, Peter Laurie said: “To many, Paul O’Grady was the immensely popular TV and radio presenter and comedian who lit up their screens with his razor-sharp humour and perpetual generosity and warmth.
''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.
“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.”
READ NEXT:
Singer Susan Boyle nearly unrecognisable as she's spotted in iconic Irish hotel
Meat, juice, sweets among food recalled by Dunnes, Aldi, Tesco and more Irish supermarkets right now
Girl, 4, hospitalised after being attacked by pack of 'dangerous dogs'
Viewers all saying same thing about 'dark and sinister' character in second episode of Kin
Inside the Dail gym that fewer politicians than ever are using
Get news updates direct to your inbox by signing up to our daily newsletter here
