Paul O’Grady funeral – live: Mourners and dogs lined streets for Lily Savage star’s service in Kent
Paul O’Grady has ben laid to rest in a private ceremony featuring a special tribute from dogs from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
The TV icon, who rose to fame as his drag queen alter ego Lily Savage before going on to host a string of TV shows, died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at home last month aged 67.
His funeral took place this afternoon and featured a guard of honour with dogs, in a special nod to O’Grady’s work as an ambassador for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in 2012. He rehomed five dogs while filming his ITV series Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs.
Local fans lined the streets to pay their respects as O’Grady’s coffin was led through his home town of Aldington in Kent. Stars in attendance at the funeral included Ronnie Wood, Alan Carr, Gaby Roslin, Jo Brand, and Julian Clary.
It comes after O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio posted in local Facebook groups inviting the local school and community to mourn the comedian, expressing his “deep gratitude” for the “overwhelming outpouring of support and love” he has received in the wake of his spouse’s death.
Key Points
Battersea Dogs & Cats to form guard of honour for O’Grady
Paul O’Grady to be laid to rest in private ceremony
Late star’s poignant words on death and counting his blessings
20:35 , Jacob Stolworthy
Stars in attendance at Paul O’Grady’s funeral today included included Ronnie Wood, Alan Carr, Gaby Roslin, Jo Brand, and Julian Clary.
18:50 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s funeral ceremony featureda special tribute from dogs of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who formed a guard of honour.
The star rehomed five Battersea dogs while he filmed his award-winning programme Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs.
More than £270,000 has been raised for the London-based charity since O’Grady’s death.
18:20 , Jacob Stolworthy
Linda Thorson said that the late Queen Elizabeth II adored Paul O’Grady, and was “very at ease” with him.
Canadian actor Thorson, 75, said that O’Grady had a unique connection with the late Queen.
Ellie Muir reports:
Linda Thorson explains why the late Queen adored Paul O’Grady
17:50 , Jacob Stolworthy
The streets of Aldington were lined with mourners on Thursday (20 April) as friends and family attended a service to honour the late Paul O’Grady.
The presenter – known and loved for his drag alter-ego Lily Savage – died on 29 March, aged 67. While his cause of death is yet to be officially disclosed, he suffered numerous heart attacks over the years.
The Independent’s wrap story below.
Final farewell to Paul O’Grady as presenter is laid to rest in Kent
Wildlife park to host wake for Paul O’Grady
17:20 , Jacob Stolworthy
After Paul O’Grady’s funeral in Aldington, a private wake is planned at Port Lympne Safari Park, three miles down the road.
The late star often judged animal competitions at the park. In a tribute after his death on 28 March, staff said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Paul O’Grady - a local supporter of Port Lympne and the world we do.
“We were incredibly grateful to have him visit us.”
Port Lympne, is home to more than 900 rare and endangered animals on a 600 acre reserve.
Who is Paul O’Grady’s husband, Andre Portasio?
17:05 , Jacob Stolworthy
Andre Portasio is a former-professional ballet dancer. He began dating entertainer Paul O’ Grady, in 2006, before the pair married in the summer of 2017.
Portasio used to perform with the English National Ballet.
The two were married in a 30-minute ceremony in the gardens of The Goring Hotel, central London, on 5 August 2017.
Guests such as actors Ian McKellen and Michael Cashman and comedian Julian Clary attended the reception.
16:35 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s funeral service was restricted to his family and closest friends, which included numerous celebrities.
Alan Carr and Ronnie Wood among mourners at Paul O’Grady’s funeral
16:20 , Jacob Stolworthy
The Salvation Army Band that welcomed mourners to Paul O’Grady’s service in Kent played the song “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie.
O’Grady was touring with a production of Annie at the time of his death.
16:05 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s coffin was carried into church as dogs from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home formed a “guard of honour” in a special tribute to the TV star, who became an ambassador for the charity in 2012.
15:50 , Jacob Stolworthy
Among the celebrities in attendance at Paul O’Grady’s private funeral service were comedian Julian Clary, the late Dame Barbara Windsor’s widower Scott Mitchell and EastEnders actor Scott Maslen.
15:40 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s wooden coffin was adorned with a wreath of lilies.
Following close behind the TV star’s husband, Andre Portasio, in the procession was his only child, daughter Sharyn Mousley.
Sharyn walked alongside a young man, believed to be O’Grady’s grandson, who was holding Lily Savage’s wig.
15:25 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s coffin has arrived at the church in Aldington, Kent.
The service, led by Reverend Canon Roger Martin, will take place privately.
15:15 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio, and their pet dog, led the procession to the TV star’s funeral.
15:05 , Jacob Stolworthy
A Salvation Army Band has welcomed mourners to Paul O’Grady’s funeral service, which is taking place at St Rumwold’s Parish Church in Aldington, Kent.
15:00 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s husband, Andre Portasio, shared a message to the TV star’s fans while inviting them to watch his procession in Aldington.
“In order to avoid road congestion and public disorder, we kindly ask all residents to treat this invitation personally and if attending to stand on either Roman Road, Forge Hill, or New Road Hill so to respect the villagers and the local area,” Portasio wrote.
“Please note for public safety Church Road as well as Knoll Hill will be closed on the day of the procession. We kindly ask everyone to respect the family’s wishes and maintain social distancing throughout the event.”
Which celebrities will be in attendance at Paul O’Grady’s funeral?
14:49 , Jacob Stolworthy
Stars attending the funeral service of Paul O’Grady include Ronnie Wood, Alan Carr, Gaby Roslin, Jo Brand, Sheila Hancock, Cheryl Fergison and LGBT rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
A Salvation Army Band has welcomed mourners to the service, which is taking place at St Rumwold’s Parish Church.
14:41 , Jacob Stolworthy
Those mourning Paul O’Grady are applauding the TV star’s procession in his home town, moments before his funeral begins.
14:25 , Jacob Stolworthy
Watch live as the funeral for entertainer Paul O’Grady takes place in Aldington, Kent.
Hundreds of mourners are lining the streets of the village the television icon from Birkenhead called home for more than 20 years.
Live: Paul O'Grady's funeral service takes place in Kent
14:10 , Jacob Stolworthy
Paul O’Grady’s fans are arriving to watch the TV star’s procession in Aldington.
Crowds, journalists and dogs have gathered on the streets of Aldington for the funeral of Paul O’Grady. pic.twitter.com/P2QN4Q0TOV
— Tom Savvides (@TomSavvidesITV) April 20, 2023
Andre Portasio, the former ballet dancer who had a huge impact on ‘rogue’ Paul O’Grady
13:55 , Kate Ng
As Paul O’Grady’s family prepares to bid him his final farewell, we take a closer look at the relationship between him and his husband Andre Portasio.
Read more here:
Andre Portasio, the ballet dancer who had a huge impact on ‘rogue’ Paul O’Grady
Fans pay tribute to Paul O’Grady on social media
13:40 , Kate Ng
Ahead of the funeral, fans of Paul O’Grady have taken to social media to pay their last respects to the late TV star.
I loved the bones of Paul O'Grady. He was instrumental in me getting my beloved dog Bailey. An inspiring, wonderful human being. Today he is laid to rest. #rippaulogrady
— John Harrison 🇬🇧🇮🇱🇺🇦 (@labourloyalist) April 20, 2023
Sending so much love to all of Paul O’Grady’s family, friends and fans all over the world. Rest in peace Paul. You are a legend and you will be forever loved, always missed and never forgotten. Thanks for being you.#PaulOGrady #allontheboard pic.twitter.com/o0qp7xBcS3
— All On The Board (@allontheboard) April 20, 2023
My thoughts today go out to all that knew and loved Paul O'Grady on the day he is laid to rest. A wonderful man sadly taken far too soon. RIP Paul you will never be forgotten. God bless. 💔
— Joanne Dale (@rockireland) April 20, 2023
Today, our beloved Paul O'Grady will be laid to rest.
It's a day that has arrived far too soon.
With a guard of honour of dogs from Battersea, a Salvation Army band and the locals lining the streets, I'm sure Kent will do him proud.
Sleep well, Paul x pic.twitter.com/Rkfwlv7ONS— Matthew Gormley (@MatthewPGormley) April 20, 2023
Sad yet joyous farewell to the wonderful Paul O'Grady today.
Warm, funny, loving and a complete star in every way!
Shall 'paws' for all the paws he treasured.
RIP lovely man. pic.twitter.com/GFkGDyxvGh— Adrienne Vaughan - Summer of Secrets #ComingSoon (@adrienneauthor) April 20, 2023
What time does the funeral procession start?
13:20 , Kate Ng
The private funeral of Paul O’Grady will take place in Aldington, but memorials and other marks of respect to the late presenter have been planned in other parts of the country.
Here’s everything you need to know abot the funeral procession:
What time does Paul O’Grady’s funeral start, where is it and who’s attending?
Linda Thorson explains why the late Queen adored Paul O’Grady
13:00 , Kate Ng
Linda Thorson said that the late Queen Elizabeth II adored Paul O’Grady, and was “very at ease” with him.
Canadian actor Thorson, 75, said that O’Grady had a unique connection with the late Queen.
Ellie Muir reports:
Linda Thorson explains why the late Queen adored Paul O’Grady
Battersea Dogs to form guard of honour for funeral
12:40 , Kate Ng
Paul O’Grady’s funeral will feature a guard of honour with dogs from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
The canine guard of honour is a special nod to O'Grady, who became an ambassador for the animal charity in 2012 and rehomed five dogs while filming his multiple award-winning ITV show Paul O'Grady: For The Love Of Dogs.
The procession leading to the private service is expected to carry O'Grady's coffin through his home town of Aldington in Kent, with local fans expected to gather along the streets to pay their respects and mourn the TV personality.
Animal lover Paul O’Grady toasted by campaigner ahead of funeral
12:30 , Liam James
Prominent animal welfare campaigner Dominic Dyer paid tribute to Paul O’Grady ahead of the late star’s funeral this afternoon.
O’Grady, who made a TV sidekick out of his dog Buster, was known for his love of animals and work with wildlife charities.
Dyer said O’Grady will receive “a wonderful send-off for a wonderful person” on a day that will include a special tribute from dogs of the Battersea Dogs and Cats home.
Paul O’Grady will be laid to rest in the most beautiful way today ❤️ The streets of his hometown will be lined with people and their dogs as the presenter’s coffin is carried to the church. Rescue dogs from his beloved Battersea will then form a guard of honour during a private… pic.twitter.com/9ciixrXEtP
— dominic dyer (@domdyer70) April 20, 2023
Wildlife park to host wake for Paul O’Grady
12:00 , Liam James
After O’Grady’s funeral in Aldington, a private wake is planned at Port Lympne Safari Park, three miles down the road.
The late star often judged animal competitions at the park. In a tribute after his death on 28 March, staff said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Paul O’Grady - a local supporter of Port Lympne and the world we do.
“We were incredibly grateful to have him visit us.”
Port Lympne, is home to more than 900 rare and endangered animals on a 600 acre reserve.
Who is Andre Portasio?
11:24 , Liam James
Andre Portasio is a former-professional ballet dancer. He began dating entertainer Paul O’ Grady, in 2006, before the pair married in the summer of 2017.
Portasio used to perform with the English National Ballet.
The two were married in a 30-minute ceremony in the gardens of The Goring Hotel, central London, on 5 August 2017.
Guests such as actors Ian McKellen and Michael Cashman and comedian Julian Clary attended the reception.
BBC pays tribute to Paul O’Grady airing Blankety Blank show with Lily Savage
11:00 , Liam James
Ahead of O’Grady’s funeral, the BBC paid tribute by airing an episode of quiz show Blankety Blank featuring the late star’s drag alter ego Lily Savage.
Watch a clip below:
Paul O’Grady funeral: Where will star be laid to rest?
10:22 , Liam James
Though Paul O’rady will be having a private funeral service, his husband Andre Portasio posted in local Facebook groups inviting the local school and community to line the streets of his local village to mourn the comedian.
Residents are invited to stand on Roman Road, Forge Hill or New Road Hill in Aldington and Bonnington, Kent between 2.10pm and 2.45pm today, and Portasio asked any visitors to “respect the villagers and the local area”.
Paul O’Grady’s poignant words on death and counting his blessings
09:33 , Liam James
The funeral of Paul O’Grady, the adored TV presenter and comedian who broke out with his drag act persona Lily Savage, is taking place today after he died last month aged 67 – but he once said it would be “amazing” if he made it to 60.
His partner Andre Portasio confirmed in a statement that O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on 28 March.
“He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion,” Portasio said.
“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
O’Grady’s cause of death has not been officially confirmed by his representatives, but he had several health issues over the years.
Paul O’Grady’s poignant words on death and counting his blessings
Paul O’Grady funeral: What time does the procession start, where is it and who’s attending?
09:10 , Liam James
Isobel Lewis has drawn up a guide to the TV icon’s funeral today, including times, places and who to look out for on the guest list:
What time does Paul O’Grady’s funeral start, where is it and who’s attending?
Neighbours pay tribute to ‘fabulous’ Paul O’Grady
08:33 , Liam James
Residents of Paul O’Grady’s home village of Aldington, Kent have been invited to watch his funeral procession.
O’Grady lived in Aldington, near Ashford, for more than 20 years and was a well-known face in the village.
On his death, local residents paid tribute to a “fabulous” neighbour.
Linda Harman, a local councillor, told KentOnline: “Paul has been a staunch member and supporter of this village, most recently judging our dog show last summer.
“He always gave up his time and sometimes his money very freely to support this village. He is, as everyone has described, a fabulous, kind, normal person who never stood on a celebrity status.”
Neighbour Francoise Montford said Paul was “a great asset to this village”.
“Paul has been a very kind person and we’re all going to miss him,” she told the local press.
“He did a lot for the primary school. He used to always come along to the summer fetes with his dogs and never asked for any money.
“He had a kind heart, he never praised himself like other actors do and he cared very deeply for animals.
Battersea Dogs & Cats to form guard of honour for O’Grady
08:17 , Liam James
Paul O’Grady’s funeral ceremony will feature a special tribute from dogs of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who will form a guard of honour.
The star rehomed five dogs from there while he filmed his award-winning programme Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs.
More than £270,000 has been raised for the London-based charity since O’Grady’s death.
Watch: Paul O’Grady’s funeral details revealed
08:01 , Katy Clifton
Local fans invited to line streets to pay respects
07:59 , Katy Clifton
Ahead of O’Grady’s funeral, his husband Andre Portasio posted in local Facebook groups inviting the local school and community to line the streets to mourn the comedian.
He also expressed his “deep gratitude” for the “overwhelming outpouring of support and love” he has received in the wake of O’Grady’s death.
Residents are invited to stand on Roman Road, Forge Hill or New Road Hill between 2.10pm and 2.45pm on Thursday, although Mr Portasio, who married O’Grady in a low-key wedding ceremony in 2017, asked to “respect the villagers and the local area”.
07:56 , Katy Clifton
Hello and welcome to our live updates ahead of Paul O’Grady’s funeral this afternoon.
The comedian will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, with his coffin led through his home town of Aldington as local fans gather on the streets to pay their respects and mourn the TV personality.
O’Grady died last month “unexpectedly but peacefully” at his home at the age of 67.
We’ll be bringing you all the latest updates throughout the day.
