Paul O'Grady suffered a severe bout of Covid-19 during his final year at BBC Radio 2, leaving him unable to work for two months and struggling with long-lasting effects, according to reports. The 67-year-old presenter, known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' on Tuesday evening, as confirmed by his partner Andre Portasio.
O'Grady, who had previously experienced two heart attacks, contracted the virus in July while filming the second series of Sally Lindsay's 'The Madame Blanc Mysteries' in Malta. He described being 'shocked at how bad' he was, saying the illness 'wiped me out' and left him breathless. 'I'd go out to feed the pigs and I'd have to sit down two or three times on my way there, wheezing,' he recalled.
After an X-ray, O'Grady was diagnosed as a recovering Covid victim and spent the summer recuperating at his Kent farm. He said he slept excessively, waking only to sit on the couch before passing out for another four hours. 'I’d had all the jabs, but it just finished me off,' he added.
O'Grady's cardiologist was consulted after he felt he might never recover. The star had previously suffered two heart attacks, and his health struggles were compounded by the virus. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues.
Andre Portasio's statement read: 'It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.'
