Coronation Street star Jodie Prenger got emotional as she shared how much Paul O'Grady meant to her.
The actress paid tribute to her good friend Paul on Good Morning Britain today, as she backed calls for a statue to be erected in his honour. Paul passed away unexpectedly on March 28, with his death leading to an outpouring of love and support for the TV star.
Jodie got emotional on the ITV breakfast show today as she heard his voice when the ITV show broadcasted a clip of him talking about animals. She explained how much he had championed her, even for her Coronation Street role.
Speaking on the programme, she explained how Paul and his producer Malcolm had backed her role on the ITV soap, before adding that it was a dream come true for her to walk on the Cobbles.
Jodie was also joined by the rescue dog she had renamed Lily after Paul's alter ego Lily Savage.
A lover of animals, Jodie decided it would be a fitting tribute for Paul as he loved animals too and Good Morning Britain hosts Kate Garraway and Adil Ray were quite taken by the pooch as he appeared on screen.
Announcing the name, she wrote: "Well Paul, this is for you kidda. We picked up this little angel on Sunday. I’ve spoke to the amazing charity @silverfoxdogrescue and we will be renaming her Lily. May Pauls dedication to loving and rehoming animals live on forever."
More than 100,000 people have signed a petition for a statue of TV star Paul O’Grady in his home town of Birkenhead.
Resident Kieran Gabriel, who started the petition, said Wirral Council must take stock of the outpouring of love after Paul’s death. He added: “Liverpool has Cilla, Birkenhead deserves Paul.”
The council said it will honour Paul in 2024 but did not confirm if it is a permanent tribute.
David Armstrong, assistant chief executive, added: "We are working on honouring Paul’s life, career and the causes he championed, including a fitting celebration as part of our borough of culture events next year."
