One of the last public photos of Paul O’Grady saw the TV star enjoying a drink with a fan at a bar – just days before he passed away at the age of 67.
And another picture showed the beloved entertainer cuddling an adorable dog backstage at a theatre in Edinburgh.
The legendary broadcaster sadly died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening, with his partner Andre Portasio confirming the news in a heartbreaking statement.
READ MORE: Paul O’Grady’s touching last post ‘mourning’ the loss of pet days before his death at 67
Just days before he passed, the former Radio 2 star was spotted mingling with fans at a bar in Edinburgh, in what might be one of the last pictures taken of him.
(Image: Facebook/Darren Paterson)
The photo shared on social media showed Paul beaming for the camera with his arm around a smiling fan, who described the Lily Savage star as a “lovely man”.
The comedian was wearing a stylish blue Ralph Lauren polo shirt and looked to be in high spirits with a drink in his hand.
And another of what is believed to be one of the last photos of Paul saw him hugging a miniature dachshund backstage at the Edinburgh Playhouse.
(Image: @ frankietheminidaxie)
It was shared by an account dedicated to the dog, who is named Frankie, with the caption: “esterday was the best day at work ever! I got to meet everyone’s favourite dog loving legend. Thanks for the cuddles and all the attention.”
Paul had been spending time in Edinburgh in the week before he died as he was on tour with the musical Annie, where he was playing Miss Hannigan.
The theatre show had been at the Edinburgh Playhouse from March 21 until March 25.
Paul became an ambassador for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2012 and his hit ITV show For the Love of Dogs was set there.
(Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Andre wrote in his statement: “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.
“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
(Image: Getty Images)
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He told fans he had been “thoroughly enjoying” playing the role again after so long and “especially with a truly amazing and lovely cast”.
Paul’s long-time radio producer and friend Malcolm Prince said he had visited the star on Tuesday afternoon and that he had been “laughing, smiling, and full of life.”
He wrote on Twitter: “He was so proud of Annie, so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects.
“And now he’s gone. I can’t believe it. We have lost a unique talent – and I’ve lost a dear friend.”
Other stars like Lorraine Kelly have paid tributes to Paul on social media.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
