Presenter Bradley Walsh has shared a touching tribute dedicated to Paul O’Grady ahead of the new series of BBC’s Blankety Blank.
The popular show will make a return to screens on Saturday night with The Chase star Bradley as host. But ahead of the show’s return, the 63-year-old expressed his gratitude to late star Paul, who previously hosted the show from 1997-2002.
Talking about the TV icon, who sadly passed away in March this year, he told The Sun’s TV Mag: “Paul was an absolute genius, and his passing is a great loss. There was something so wonderful about his character Lily Savage.”
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“She had the most cutting tongue and could get away with just about anything. I was lucky enough to feature as a contestant on the show when Lily was presenting. Paul was an irreplaceable class act.
(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Talking about the new series, he said there were some “brilliant names” on the show, including Alison Hammond and Shane Richie. He added: “I would love to see some more heavyweight actors give it a go – the likes of Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Helen Mirren.”
Bradley also confessed that he’s asked Jodie Whittaker to come on the show and wants to see if she will take him on this offer. He also mentioned that the celebs who don’t take themselves seriously are usually the most fun on the show.
(Image: Getty Images)
Presenter Paul left the world at a standstill when he died at the age of 67. His husband, Andre Portasio, confirmed in a statement that he died “unexpectedly but peacefully” and said: “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. I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
