Paul O’Grady was an English comedian, actor, and television presenter, born on June 14, 1955, in Birkenhead, England.
He was best known for his drag queen alter ego, Lily Savage, and his work as a presenter on various TV shows.
O’Grady began his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1980s, performing as Lily Savage, a larger-than-life drag queen with a sharp tongue and an irreverent sense of humor.
He gained popularity on the UK comedy circuit and made several TV appearances, including on the BBC’s “Saturday Live” and Channel 4’s “The Big Breakfast.”
In 1998, O’Grady began hosting his own talk show, “The Paul O’Grady Show,” on Channel 4. The show was a hit and ran for ten years, during which time O’Grady won numerous awards for his presenting skills.
O’Grady has also appeared in a number of TV dramas, including “The Bill,” “Holby City,” and “Coronation Street,” and has lent his voice to several animated TV shows, including “Bob the Builder” and “Watership Down.”
In addition to his work in entertainment, O’Grady is a passionate animal rights activist and has campaigned for better treatment of animals in the UK and around the world.
He has written several books about his experiences with his own pets and the animals he has encountered during his travels.
O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on 28 March 2023, aged 67.
His death was announced by his partner, André Portasio, and tributes for the former television host came in from TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and LGBTQ+ rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.
Paul O’Grady Parents: Meet Mary Savage, Patrick Grady
Paul O’Grady’s parents were both Irish immigrants who settled in the UK. His mother, Mary “Maureen” O’Grady (née Nolan), was from County Clare, and his father, Patrick “Paddy” O’Grady, was from County Roscommon.
O’Grady has spoken openly about his difficult childhood and the impact of his parents’ alcoholism on his upbringing.
He left home at a young age and has described his decision to leave as a turning point in his life. Despite the challenges he faced, he has also spoken fondly of his parents and their sense of humor, which has influenced his own comedic style.
source:ghanaianexpress.com
