Paul O’Grady had a final wish for his funeral, a close friend of his has revealed following his death.
For the Love of Dogs star Paul sadly died last Tuesday aged just 67 – with his husband Andre Portasio confirming the sad news in a statement.
And now, the late Lily Savage star’s friend Amanda Mealing has spoken out about his final wish.
Paul O’Grady death: Tributes pour in for TV star
Since the news of Paul’s death, there has been an outpouring of love for the TV favourite.
Many of his fellow showbiz pals have chimed in too – to share their memories of the comedian. Including his pal-of-forty-years Christopher Biggins, who gave an insight into his holidays with Paul.
Whatever happens, Paul’s funeral will be a celebration of his life and it will be full of laughter.
And more recently, Holby City star Amanda has spoken out about her relationship with the TV star. In an emotional interview, she shared Paul’s poignant final wish for his funeral attendees.
Paul O’Grady friend reveals TV’s final wish
In the interview, Amanda revealed that Paul had told her and their friendship group how he wants those attending his funeral to act.
The 55-year-old told The Mirror: “Whatever happens, Paul’s funeral will be a celebration of his life and it will be full of laughter.
“He just told us to have a good time – he’d hate it if everyone was mawkish and morose. He would just say: ‘I don’t care, I won’t be here! Do whatever you want’.”
‘There will be two funerals for Paul O’Grady’ says pal
Amanda further discussed plans for Paul’s send-off, revealing there may be two funerals – a private one, and another in a “very grand place” for fans to attend.
The actor also said she spoke to Paul on the phone just days before he sadly died. She shared that “he was feeling great” following a holiday to Thailand.
Paul’s death was confirmed in a statement released by his husband last week.
It read: “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. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.”
It was recently reported that donations to Battersea – which Paul was an ambassador for – have exceeded £100,000 in the days after Paul’s death.
Battersea’s Chief Executive Peter Laurie said: “We will be looking to find a suitably fitting way to remember the profound impact Paul had at Battersea and the rescue animal sector. Something that will support the animals Paul loved so much, and that would make him proud.”
Read more: Paul O’Grady death: Fans reduced to tears watching Lily Savage on BBC Blankety Blank special
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