GOOD Morning Britain anchor Susanna Reid paid an emotional tribute to “funny, present and loving” presenter Paul O’Grady following his unexpected death.
The much-loved radio and TV presenter – famous for his character Lily Savage – died at the aged of 67 in news confirmed by his husband.
Emotional Susanna Reid and Martin Lewis have paid tribute to Paul O’Grady after his tragic death
The Radio 2 host passed away suddenly at the age of 67
Paul as his comedy character, Lily Savage
Money-saving expert Martin and Susanna fronted Wednesday’s Good Morning Britain with tributes to Paul.
Martin said: “It was a shock to find out this morning, he feels very young.”
He added: “Paul was a British institution who kept television viewers laughing for more than three decades.
“He was also a leading campaigner for animal rights.”
In a separate segment, Susanna added: “He was just so funny, and so compassionate and so loving.
“And you just knew he would go into Battersea Dogs Home week after week and have to resist the urge to add to his menagerie [of animals].
Paul often appeared on ITV to talk about his love of dogs
Good Morning Britain’s entertainment host Richard Arnold added: “You never felt you were on the raw end of his wit – it was done with so much generosity and compassion.”
Susanna then came close to tears as she said: “Your tributes throughout the morning – much missed.”
The Radio 2 star passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully” yesterday evening.
His husband Andre Portasio said: “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.”
Paul‘s cause of death is yet to be confirmed, but he had struggled with his health in recent years.
The Brit personality made a name for himself in comedy, and television – and later became known for his love of dogs.
