The Empire Theatre has paid an emotional tribute to Paul O'Grady following the star's death.
Paul died "unexpected but peacefully" last night at the age of 67. His husband, Andre Portasio confirmed the news in a statement.
The Birkenhead-born TV and radio star was due to appear as Miss Hannigan in Annie at the Empire this June. He had played the role in the stage production as it toured the UK, most recently appearing in Edinburgh.
READ MORE: Paul O'Grady: Leave your tribute to the beloved comedian in the ECHO's online condolence book
In tribute to Paul, the theatre tweeted: "All at the Liverpool Empire Theatre are deeply saddened by the heart-breaking news of the sudden passing of beloved actor, comedian and TV personality Paul O’Grady. Our thoughts are with his husband, family and friends at this difficult time."
A spokesperson for Annie the Musical added: “Everyone at Annie The Musical is stunned and saddened by the passing of Paul O’Grady. An incredible Miss Hannigan and an irreplaceable, hilarious and generous person who we will all miss immensely.
"Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this very sad time. There will be further news from Annie The Musical in due course.”
Paul had a long and successful entertainment career, hosting The Paul O'Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV's multi-award-winning For The Love Of Dogs. He also hosted ITV celebrity game show, Paul O'Grady's Saturday Night Line Up.
He also took over the reins from Blind Date's long-running presenter and his close friend Cilla Black, who died in 2015, as he hosted the Channel 5 reboot of the show in 2017. Last year the animal lover was joined by the Queen Consort in a special one-off episode of For The Love Of Dogs to mark 160 years of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, an organisation for which he was an ambassador.
Mr Portasio, who married Paul during a low-key wedding ceremony in 2017, said in his statement: "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."
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