On 28 March 2023, Andre Portasio found his husband, Paul O’Grady, lying on the kitchen floor and immediately called emergency services.
While waiting for help to arrive, Andre attempted to resuscitate Paul, doing his best to keep their dogs out of the room as paramedics made their way to the house.
A heartbreaking moment
Paul’s favourite dog, Arfur, managed to nudge his way back into the kitchen. According to Andre Portasio, the dog ran straight towards Paul, nuzzling him and placing his head on his shoulder, as if urging him to wake up.
Despite the efforts of paramedics, Paul could not be resuscitated. Andre and the couple’s dogs were left to say their goodbyes to the much-loved entertainer and animal lover.
Honouring Paul O’Grady’s legacy
A year after his death, Andre went travelling in New Zealand as he grappled with his grief. Back in the UK, tributes and messages of support were shared widely on social media, including from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, a charity particularly close to Paul’s heart.
In a statement, Battersea said:
“Whilst our staff and volunteers miss Paul every day, his work lives on within the impact it has had, and continues to have, for countless rescue animals at Battersea and beyond. Thank you, Paul.”
