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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Jessica Sansome

Paul O'Grady remembered by husband and fans and say if 'we were lucky' they'd be celebrating birthday in emotional post

Paul O'Grady has been remembered by his partner and his fans as they marked what would have been his 68th birthday. The comedian and TV and radio star tragically died on March 28 this year.

The sad news was broken on social media by Paul's partner Andre Portasio the morning after his death, aged 67, at their home in Kent. "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening," he said at the time.

His sad passing was announced as Paul was midway through a UK tour of musical Annie, and just days after he signed a new contract with Boom Radio station. It was later confirmed that the Lily Savage star had died from sudden cardiac arrhythmia.

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On Wednesday (June 14), O'Grady's husband has paid tribute to the late star by sharing a sweet photo of him with a birthday cake. Sharing the snap of Paul to his Instagram page, Andre said: "HAPPY HEAVENLY BIRTHDAY. Myself and dogs miss you lots and we can only wish you were here with us."

He then added: "Love you always @paulogrady." A separate post was also made on O'Grady's Instagram account. The account shared a bittersweet tribute, paired with a black and white snap of the well-known animal lover and Battersea ambassador which began: "Remembering our Paul."

The tribute went on to say:" If today we were lucky still to have him with us, he would certainly not be amused at turning 68. But we will celebrate his birthday with a drink or two. HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAUL - thinking of you always."

Amanda Holden was among those to respond to the post, simply writing in the comments: "Thinking of him," before fans rushed to share their tributes and heavenly birthday wishes to the late star.

@purplehairedholly said: "Happy Birthday Paul. You should be here still, someone as kind as you deserved to live so much longer, I still find it very sad." @72sami commented: "Heavenly birthday Paul still seems surreal ur not here anymore but heaven has gains a pure saint." @pippy_poppins wrote: "Paul and Cilla will be on the pina coladas tonight! Have a good one Paul, you are dearly missed."

@munro.70 posted: "Happy heavenly birthday Paul you are always remembered with love." @michellerob_68 replied: "Never ever be forgotten. Happy Heavenly Birthday Paul." @nickyharris68 added: "Happy birthday Paul o'Grady. There will never be anyone like you again, hope your giving all the beautiful angels a laugh."

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