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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Zara Woodcock

Peter Kay makes rare social media post to pay tribute to 'kind and genuine' Paul O'Grady

Peter Kay made a return to social media to pay tribute to Paul O'Grady following the star's 'unexpected' death at 67.

The comedian, actor and writer, also known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening.

After hearing the tragic news, friends, colleagues and fans rushed to social media to share their fond memories of him.

Peter, 49, made a rare return to social media to share an old clip of his appearances on The Paul O'Grady Show.

"Happy memories of the lovely Paul O'Grady Kind, genuine and naturally funny," he tweeted to his 835,000 followers.

In the first clip, Peter delighted the audience when he showed up to the Christmas edition of the talk show wearing a Christmas tree costume.

Peter Kay appeared on The Paul O'Grady Show many times over the years (ITV)

On one occasion, Peter wore a snowman costume while on another appearance, he dressed as a chicken.

Paul's husband Andre Portasio announced the tragic news of his death on Tuesday with a statement.

He said: "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.

Peter paid tribute to Paul after his shock death (Brian J Ritchie/Hot Sauce/REX/Shutterstock)
Paul died at the age of 67 (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”

Paul left his job at Radio 2 just seven months before his shocking death after revealing he “wasn’t really happy” with controversial changes at the BBC station.

This included sharing his show on a ’13 weeks on, 13 weeks off’ basis with comedian Rob Beckett.

During his final radio show on Sunday, August 14, Paul reflected on his time at the station alongside his producer pal.

As he began bidding farewell to his loyal listeners, he joked: “This is one of the longest jobs I’ve ever held down – I only came in to do a few hours for Elaine Paige.”

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