National treasure Paul O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on March 28, with his husband Andre Portasio announcing the sad news.
And now Paul’s pal Christopher Biggins has spoken out about how he believes Andre “saved” the beloved comedian from living as a “rogue”.
The comedian has now spoken out about how Paul – who had previously suffered several heart attacks and a battle with coronavirus – was instructed to give up smoking when he was younger.
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Christopher said that Paul was “like a teenager as far as his health was concerned — he didn’t listen.”
Speaking to The Sun, Christopher spoke about his wild nights out with Paul and their close friend Cilla Black, he also recalled a time they was all in Spain together.
Claiming that Paul “had his heart problems already”, Biggins told of how Paul was told to stop smoking and drinking by doctors.
Christopher then recalled one time when he and Cilla were in the kitchen and could smell smoke.
Thinking that the smell was due to Paul smoking upstairs, he added: “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 said to him, ‘You must think we’re idiots, the room’s full of smoke’. He kept insisting, ‘I’m not smoking’, and in minutes we were both lying on the floor laughing hysterically.”
Talking about how Andre “saved him”, Christopher added: “He married a gorgeous man and I think that is what saved him from descending into life as a rogue. He made a happy life in the Kent countryside with his animals.”
Paul’s husband Andre is a talented ballet dancer and used to perform with the English National Ballet.
The pair started dating in 2006, before getting hitched in the summer of 2017.
Paul sadly died last week when his husband Andre announced the sad news about the beloved comedian.
Andre wrote: “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.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
