Paul O’Grady’s friend have claimed that the late star was unconcerned about his heath.
The legendary TV star died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday, March 28 aged 67.
Prior to his sudden passing, the television icon suffered a number of health issues including several heart attacks.
READ MORE: Paul O’Grady planned own funeral in 2017 and wanted ‘glass coffin in a forest’
Former I’m A Celebrity winner Christopher Biggins was a close pal of Paul and has spoken out about how unconcerned the Lily Savage star was with his health issues.
Speaking to The Sun. Biggins explained: “About 15 years ago we were staying with Cilla [Black] in Spain.
“Paul had his heart problems already and had been told not to smoke or indulge in alcohol too much.”
“She told me to go upstairs and tell him to stop.
“I felt like the matron from the Carry On films when I went into his bedroom and said: ‘Paul, you’re smoking.’ He looked at me and said: ‘No I’m not.’.
“I know for a fact he was still smoking last week. What a wonderful way to go — peacefully in your sleep.”
Many of Paul’s friends and celebrity pals have shared their shock at his sudden death, as well as touching memories of his comedy and kindness.
Paul’s best pal and Casualty actress Amanda Mealing explained the comic’s last wish to The Mirror:
She said: “He just told us to have a good time. He’d hate it if everyone was morose.”
“Whatever happens, Paul’s funeral will be a celebration of his life and it will be full of laughter.
“He just told us to have a good time – he’d hate it if everyone was mawkish and morose. He would just say: ‘I don’t care, I won’t be here! Do whatever you want’.”
Paul’s husband Andre Portasio confirmed the star’s death in a statement on Wednesday, March 29.
He wrote: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
Like what you see? Then fill your boots…
There’s MUCH more where that came from! Want all the jaw-dropping stories from the world of showbiz and up to the minute news from TV and soaps?
Well, we’ve got you covered with our showbiz, TV and soaps newsletters – they’ll drop straight into your inbox and you can unsubscribe whenever you like.
We’ll bring you the inside track from telly expert Ed Gleave and soap specialist Sasha Morris. Oh, and your daily fix of Piers, Katie Price, Demi Rose and all your other Daily Star favs.
You can sign up here – you won’t regret it…
“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.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk