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How did Paul O’Grady die? TV star and comedian, 67, was known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage

Paul o'Grady's partner Andre Portasio confirm his death and said that the star died 'unexpectedly but peacefully'

LONDON, ENGLAND: TV presenter and comedian, Paul O'Grady has died. The 67-year-old, who was known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening, March 28.

O’Grady’s sudden death was confirmed by his partner Andre Portasio, who said, "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening...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," reports BBC. 

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How did Paul O'Grady die?

Details about O'Grady's cause of death have not been revealed. However, a month ago, the star had opened up about a health battle that prevented him from working. O'Grady, who has previously had two heart attacks, as per Mirror, suffered with long-Covid after contracting the virus in July 2022. He told the outlet that he became "really ill" after getting Covid-19 while filming the second series of Sally Lindsay’s 'The Madame Blanc Mysteries' in Malta. He said, "I managed to escape Covid until last year and then I caught it. I didn’t half get it; I was really ill. It wiped me out, I was shocked at how bad I was. I was a good two months getting over it. My breath had gone. I’d go out to feed the pigs and I’d have to sit down two or three times on my way there, wheezing.” 

He eventually contacted his cardiologist, who took an x-ray and diagnosed him as a recovering Covid patient. "All I did was sleep. I’d wake up, go downstairs and sit on the couch and then pass out for another four hours. I’d get up, have a cup of tea and then go back to bed and sleep all night, it was very odd. I just felt terrible with it. I’ve never slept so much in my life. I’d had all the jabs, but it just finished me off."

RIP ‘For the Love of Dogs’ presenter

Following the news of his death, many took to social media to pay tributes. One fan wrote, "I am so shocked 67 was too young, have loved watching Paul over the years a genuine sweet heart and someone that will be truly missed." Another said, "I'm devastated by this news. I grew up watching him in many different shows. I loved his humour, his passion for life and it's comforts and of course his compassionate heart for animals. Paul O'Grady you were a true treasure and you will be dearly and sorely missed."

While many remembered him as the ‘For the Love of Dogs’ presenter. One wrote, I loved “for the love of dogs” so much, this breaks my heart." Another tweeted, "Oh this is so very sad. He was just so funny. We always watched him & he always made our day brighter. His Battersea dogs home show was a must watch. He'll be much missed. Such a lovely man. RIP Paul thanks for the laughter over the years. Condolences to family, friends & fans." On devastated fan said, "Total shock. Goodbye Paul, Farewell Lily Savage."

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