James Martin on Loose Women© Rex

James Martin's heartbreaking tribute to Paul O'Grady revealed

The James Martin's Saturday Morning host worked with the late entertainer

Deputy Online Editor
March 31, 2023

James Martin was among the many stars who paid tribute to Paul O'Grady following the news of his "unexpected" death this week.

Taking to Instagram, the celebrity chef shared a throwback picture of the late comedian and wrote: "Such sad news, a wonderful man and it was a pleasure to have worked with him… Rest in peace."

TV personality and comedian Paul O’Grady dies unexpectedly, aged 67

Fans flooded the post with messages, with one writing: "The country has lost a true ambassador for animals a true down-to-earth gentleman." Another said: "Very SAD news. An absolute wonderful man."

A third post read: "Absolutely devastating… Such a beautiful soul Paul.. and all the work he did for Battersea Dogs and Cats.. plus rescuing so many himself and taking the Dogs home. He was truly amazing, kind, and compassionate."

On Wednesday, it was announced Paul passed away unexpectedly at the age of 67. His husband Andre Portasio said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.

MORE: Paul O'Grady's beloved dogs who brought such joy to the star's life 

"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."

© Rex

James Martin was among the many who paid tribute to Paul

According to Malcolm Prince, the producer of Paul's radio show, the star spent his last day laughing and surrounded by his "beloved dogs".

Sharing an emotional statement on Twitter, he wrote: "I'm heartbroken. Yesterday afternoon, I popped around to Paul's for a good old catch-up. Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life. He was so proud of 'Annie', so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects.

"And now he's gone. I can't believe it. We have lost a unique talent - and I've lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives. My heart goes out to Andre, Paul's family, and friends. Oh how I'Il miss him."

Want to keep up to date with the latest stories? Sign up to our HELLO! Newsletters today.

Sign up to HELLO! Daily for all the latest and best celebrity coverage

Email Address

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please click here.

More Celebrity News

See more