The air date for Paul O’Grady’s final TV appearance has been confirmed by ITV following the beloved star’s sudden death earlier this week.
The new series of Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, series 11, will air on ITV1 on Thursday, April 13, as planned.
ITV’s managing director of media and entertainment, Kevin Lygo said: “We are fortunate to have had a long association with Paul, at ITV. He was a huge, inimitable talent, delighting our viewers through his comedy and entertainment with a warmth, humour and joy that audiences of all generations related to and connected with.
“He had a profound passion for animals too, which resonated with so many viewers, and For the Love of Dogs remains one of our best-loved series and a really special programme for so many.
“All those who worked with Paul are shocked and deeply saddened at his passing and the thoughts of everyone at ITV are with Paul’s loved ones.”
For the Love of Dogs first began in 2012 and was a dream gig for dog lover O’Grady, who became an ambassador for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home following the show’s success.
He presented the show for 11 series, during which time he laid bare his “passion for all things dog,” the charity said in a tribute.
Last year, O’Grady was joined by the Queen Consort in a special one-off episode of the programme to mark 160 years of the organisation.
O’Grady’s husband, former professional ballet dancer Andre Portasio, confirmed his passing in a statement shared to social media on Wednesday.
It read: “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.”
He added: “I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
