TRIBUTES have been paid to 'true gentleman' and 'superb performer' Paul O'Grady who was due to appear in Southampton once again next month, continuing his long-standing relationship with Mayflower Theatre where he famously retired Lily Savage.
The TV presenter, comedian and performer passed away unexpectedly last night at the age of 67, just weeks before his planned performance of Miss Hannigan in hit musical Annie.
Best known for presenting TV shows including Paul O'Grady Show, Blind Date and For The Love Of Dogs, he gave Lily Savage a final outing in pantomime Aladdin – A Wish Come True during Christmas 2010.
READ MORE: Comedian and presenter Paul O'Grady dies unexpectedly but peacefully aged 67
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He told the Daily Echo at the time: "So when I talked about doing Aladdin, I said I want to be Widow Twankey. I think it will suit Lil, a single mum in the launderette!
"I had put her away as I’d done it for so long and I thought I’d had enough. When I was approaching 50, I decided it was a bit undignified and I wouldn’t do it any more! But when I did panto, I realised how much I missed her. I knew we'd have a good time with it.
Paul's other Mayflower appearances include a previous stint in Annie, another panto performance in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 2000, Prisoner Cell Block H the musical and his own stand-up shows.
When he launched the panto in July 2010, Paul stopped traffic on Commercial Road. Arriving in his chauffeur-driven blacked-out Mercedes, he emerged smiling to flashes from the mobile phones of passers by who had joined the throng of waiting photographers.
He waved as passing lorries and cars tooted their horns and lunchtime drinkers in the Encore pub next door asked him to join them for a pint.
Tributes have been paid to the popular performer. Mayflower chief executive Michael Ockwell said: "All of us at Mayflower Theatre are devastated to hear the news that Paul O’Grady has died. He was a superb, hilarious performer and entertainer of the highest level.
"He was a true gentleman off-stage and wonderful to work with, always having time for a chat and a giggle with any of our staff, no matter which department. We were looking forward to welcoming Paul back."
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