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Paul O’Grady: Last picture of couple shared by husband Andre Portasio
Paul O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio has shared the last photo the couple took together, showing them sat on a boat in front of a blue sea and smiling at the camera.
Portasio wrote on Instagram: “Browsing for a picture I found the last picture we ever took together. Unbeknownst to us back in January this would be our last ever holiday together.”
He also thanked fans for their messages of support, adding: “I much appreciate you all taking the time to reach out. I’m so very touched and I’m sure Paul would be too!”
O’Grady and the former professional ballet dancer Portasio began dating in 2006 and married in 2017.
The TV presenter and comedian died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at the age of 67 on Tuesday evening.
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His close friend Linda Thorson, an actress known for starring in The Avengers and Emmerdale, said in an interview with Good Morning Britain that he died in bed with his husband beside him.
Announcing O’Grady’s death on Wednesday morning, Portasio said in a 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.
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Actress Sally Lindsay says O’Grady “never lost his working class roots”
“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.”
Stars and royalty including Sir Elton John and the Queen Consort led the thousands of tributes following his death.