Paul O'Grady was "full of life" and "surrounded by his beloved dogs" just hours before his "unexpected and peacful"' death was announced on March 28, a friend and colleague has said.
Malcolm Prince, who produces the Paul O'Grady radio show on Boom Radio, said he visited the presenter and comedian for a catch-up and found him in good spirits, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Malcolm said: "Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life. He was so proud of '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. We have lost a unique talent - and I've lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives. My heart goes out to Andre, Paul's family, and friend. Oh how I'll miss him."
Paul's husband, Mr Portasio, confirmed his passing, saying that Paul died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on the evening of March 28. In his statement, he said, "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."
Danny Beard, winner of the fourth series of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, said Paul O’Grady was “the most important person in British culture for drag”. “I don’t think there’s anyone who does the job that I do that doesn’t class Paul as an icon,” Beard told BBC Breakfast.
“Paul was a trailblazer, they were on telly just after the Aids crisis. They’ve been the most important person, I think, in British culture for drag, for the queer community. This is a really sad loss today… there’s a massive hole missing now.”
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home paid tribute to O’Grady as a “devoted animal lover” and a champion for the underdog”. The organisation, for which the TV star was an ambassador, praised his “razor-sharp humour and perpetual generosity and warmth”.
In a statement shared with the PA news agency, Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie said: “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.
He continued: “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 MORE: Updates as tributes pour in for Paul O'Grady who has died aged 67
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