29 March 2023 , 05:11
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Paul O’Grady's final social media post featured him opening up about losing his pet pig, just days before he unexpectedly passed away aged 67.
The comedian's husband, Andre Portasio, broke the news of his death in the early hours of this morning, stating that the Lily Savage and Blind Date star had passed away "unexpectedly but peacefully" yesterday evening.
Tributes have already poured in for the TV presenter, with fans and peers describing him as ‘witty’ and ‘compassionate’, thanking him for his work for LGBT+ and animal rights causes.
Paul presented much-loved TV series For The Love Of Dogs, making him well-known for his love of animals.
The comedian was known for his kindness towards animals (itv)It was only two weeks ago that a heartbroken Paul took to social media to tell his fans he was grieving the death of one of his pet pigs, Tom Tom, publishing his final post.
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The hog had been diagnosed with a tumour and had to be put to sleep while Paul was away from home, performing in a production of Annie.
Uploading a video of the animal to social media, Paul wrote: “Got back from a week in Newcastle playing Miss Hannigan in Annie to find that Tom Tom, one of my pigs had been put to sleep.
“I knew it was coming as he’d been diagnosed with a tumour but even so it’s awful when you lose a pet.
Paul had been performing as Miss Hannigan in a production of Annie (PA)“He was the cheekiest of the gang and one of the other pigs who was obviously very fond of him is now depressed and gone into mourning and there’s those who say that animals don’t have feelings.
“On a lighter note I’m thoroughly enjoying playing Hannigan again after so long especially with a truly amazing and lovely cast. Next stop Edinburgh.”
Paul had been touring around the country in a production of Annie, playing character Ms Hannigan, right up until his death.
He was even due to play the part for an additional week in June, in Liverpool.
Paul's husband, Andre Portasio, broke the news of the star's passing (Dan Wooller/Shutterstock)Last night, Paul's husband Andre Portasio published the 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.
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"I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."