The news of Paul O’Grady’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment industry and beyond. The beloved British TV host and comedian, who first gained fame as drag queen Lily Savage before becoming a much-loved personality on British television, died unexpectedly at the age of 67.

O’Grady’s partner Andre Portasio confirmed the news, stating that the entertainer passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening. Portasio also extended his condolences to O’Grady’s loved ones, friends, family, animals, and all those who enjoyed his humor, wit, and compassion.

Born in Birkenhead, near Liverpool, in 1955, O’Grady started out as a local-authority care worker before launching his career as Lily Savage, a tart-tongued Liverpudlian drag queen. Savage became a fixture as a standup and talent-show host at London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern, a landmark gay venue. O’Grady used his platform to speak out about LGBT rights at the height of the AIDS crisis, a time when the Conservative government of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was passing anti-gay laws.

Savage’s success in the alternative gay comedy scene eventually led to his transition to television in the 1990s, including a stint hosting talk show “The Lily Savage Show.” He later transitioned into hosting talk shows and gameshows, including “The Paul O’Grady Show,” “Blind Date,” and “Blankety Blank,” as well as a long-running program on BBC radio.

Despite his success in the entertainment industry, O’Grady never forgot his love for animals. He presented “For the Love of Dogs,” which profiled the work of the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, an animal rescue charity. Camilla, the queen consort, was a guest on the show last year, and the two worked closely together to support animal charities.

Following news of O’Grady’s passing, Camilla led tributes to the beloved performer, saying that she was deeply saddened by his death. In a statement released on Twitter, the official royal family account shared a photo of O’Grady and Camilla with the message: “Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O’Grady, who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea_, providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories.”

Veteran gay-rights campaigner Peter Tatchell also paid tribute to O’Grady, calling him “one of the loveliest people you could ever meet.” Tatchell went on to say that O’Grady was not just a brilliant comedian and broadcast personality but also a much-admired campaigner for LGBT+ equality and animal rights.

O’Grady’s passing is a loss not only to the entertainment industry but also to the wider community. His outspoken advocacy for LGBT+ rights and his unwavering commitment to animal welfare earned him a special place in the hearts of many.

As we mourn his passing, we can also take comfort in the memories he leaves behind. From his iconic performances as Lily Savage to his later work as a television host and animal rights advocate, O’Grady touched countless lives with his wit, charm, and compassion. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on.