Remembering Paul O’Grady

Paul James O’Grady was born on June 14, 1955, at St. Catherine’s Hospital in the Tranmere area of Birkenhead, Cheshire. His father, Patrick “Paddy” Grady, was Irish and had grown up in Ballincurry, County Roscommon, before moving to England in 1936 and settling in the working-class area of Birkenhead.

A fan of the popular television series The Avengers and Batman, Paul was enrolled in the Cub Scouts by his mother. He later joined the Marine Cadet Section of the Sea Cadet Corps, a decision influenced by his childhood hero, the cartoon character Popeye. He also developed a lifelong love for boxing, a passion he discovered when he joined the Boys’ Amateur Boxing Club.

At age 16, he started working as a clerical assistant for the DHSS at their Liverpool office. He also worked part-time at the bar of the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) club in Oxton. After moving to London in the late 1970s, Paul began working as a peripatetic care officer for Camden Council. It was during this time that he developed his drag act, creating the character of Lily Savage in 1978.

Lily Savage, a character based on traits found amongst his female relatives, quickly gained popularity among London’s gay community. Paul used his character to speak out for gay rights, adding a layer of advocacy to his entertaining performances.

In the 2000s, wishing to diversify from his Lily Savage character, Paul starred in the BBC One sitcom Eyes Down and presented two travel documentaries for ITV. He also began presenting ITV’s daytime chat show The Paul O’Grady Show, which later moved to Channel 4 and was rebranded as The New Paul O’Grady Show.

Recognized for his contributions to entertainment, Paul was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2008 Birthday Honours. He became the president of the British Music Hall Society in 2020 and was a deputy lieutenant for the County of Kent, where he lived for many years.

Favourite Quote

“Laughter is the best medicine—you can’t overdose and it has no side effects.” – Paul O’Grady

Personal Tribute

Paul O’Grady’s vibrant personality and remarkable career left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His ability to make people laugh, whether through the audacious Lily Savage or as himself on his talk show, brought joy to countless viewers. His quick wit and compassionate spirit made him a beacon of humor and humanity in the often tumultuous world of show business.

Off the screen, Paul’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare has inspired many to act for the cause. His documentary series not only shed light on the inner workings of animal rescue but highlighted the love, care, and commitment required to make a difference.

Pride of Birkenhead

Paul O’Grady’s connection to Birkenhead was not just one of birth but one of identity and pride. He often celebrated his roots, displaying a deep sense of affection and pride for his hometown. He carried Birkenhead in his heart, a piece of his identity that influenced his work and the man he became.

Paul often described his early life in Birkenhead as formative to his character and sense of humor. He drew on his experiences and the characters he met growing up in the town to create the vibrant and audacious Lily Savage, a reflection of the resiliency and wit of the Birkenhead community. His pride in his hometown was evident, as he often showcased Birkenhead’s unique culture and spirit through his work.

Beyond his personal connections, Paul’s accomplishments in entertainment and philanthropy also brought recognition to Birkenhead. His success placed a spotlight on the town, showcasing the potential of its people. For the people of Birkenhead, Paul was not just a beloved entertainer but a beacon of community pride and aspiration.

Paul O’Grady was a son of Birkenhead, and he carried that title with pride. His love for the town and its people was a testament to his character, and his legacy continues to be a source of pride for Birkenhead.

The legacy of Paul O’Grady extends beyond the laughs he gave us and the characters he brought to life. His legacy is also about the love he had for his fellow creatures and the ways he inspired us to show compassion and kindness in our everyday lives. He will forever be remembered as a beloved entertainer, a champion for animals, and a man who brought warmth and joy to all.

Guestbook / Visitor Tributes

Paul touched the lives of many, and the memories we have of him are as numerous as they are precious. This space is for you to share your experiences, stories, or messages of condolence. Your contribution will help keep his memory alive and provide comfort to those who miss him.

Contact

Your stories, memories, and reflections about Paul are always welcome. Please feel free to get in touch with any inquiries or additional stories about Paul.