
Paul O’Grady, who rose to fame with his iconic drag persona Lily Savage, died unexpectedly on Tuesday night, according to his husband Andre Portasio.
O’Grady shared a special bond with King Charles’ wife, the Queen Consort Camilla, and told MailOnline,
Camilla’s a really funny woman.
You can have a great laugh with her and you don’t feel like you’re on ceremony.
I always get a big hug and kiss from her, too, which always shocks everybody.”
Last year the pair filmed a Christmas special of For the Love of Dogs. Camilla then joined Paul as they sought homes for the animals. Paul said at the time,
There was a competition to see who’s dog would run straight to their owner ignoring the food, squeaky toys etc put in their way.
The Duchess’s dog ran straight to her, ignoring the temptation put in her way whilst Sausage headed straight for the press and photographers not a bit interested in the competition.
She was obviously more interested in raising her profile and posing for the paps…”
A statement released on behalf of Camilla said she was,
deeply saddened to have learned of the death of Paul O’Grady, with whom she worked closely to support the work of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and whose warm heart and infectious humour lit up the lives of so many.”
Following his death, the animal home remembered O’Grady as a
devoted animal lover” and a “champion for the underdog”.
Working with Paul O’Grady was one of the greatest pleasures of my life.
Funny, fearless and full of rage. The best.
The world seems a little less bright.”
Paul O’Grady was 67.
Queen Consort Camilla revealed she is ‘deeply saddened’ at TV legend Paul O’Grady’s death.
— The Royal Family Channel (@RoyalFamilyITNP) March 29, 2023
The TV star and comedian Paul O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at the age of 67, his partner Andre Portasio has said. pic.twitter.com/kDoPTfF2CX