THEGAYUK

Author: Newsdesk

  • 12 Awesome Lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    12 Awesome Lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    Lesbian Visibility Week is a week-long celebration of lesbian identity, visibility, and empowerment. It was founded by DIVA publisher Linda Riley in 2020 to celebrate and raise awareness of the experiences, challenges, and achievements of lesbians and all LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people. The week aims to increase the visibility of lesbians in various spheres of society, including politics, media, culture, and the arts. It is typically observed in the last week of April each year. There are also Lesbian Visibility Days in July and October.

    Here are 12 awesome lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    Hannah Gadsby, the acclaimed Australian stand-up comedian, is using their platform to advocate for trans rights. Gadsby publicly criticized Netflix for featuring Dave Chappelle, who made a number of derogatory jokes about the trans community in one of his specials for the streaming service.

    Jill Scott, the esteemed footballer, was a member of the England Women’s team that won the Euro 2022 championship, and later became the reigning champion of the jungle in the popular TV show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

    Lady Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, the co-founder of UK Black Pride, was instrumental in the organization’s record-breaking event in 2022, which attracted over 25,000 participants. She was also awarded an honorary doctorate by London South Bank University in recognition of her contributions to the community.

    Lea DeLaria, a butch icon, has been a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community since the 1980s and continues to use stand-up comedy as a form of activism.

    Lena Waithe, a screenwriter, producer, and actor, is committed to increasing the representation of people of colour and queer artists in the film and television industries.

    Lily Tomlin, the celebrated comedian, actor, and star of “Grace & Frankie,” has used her platform to speak out against anti-trans legislation in Florida, describing the proposed bills as a “travesty.”

    Mary Trump, the lesbian niece of former US President Donald Trump, worked tirelessly to campaign against her uncle and his bid for re-election.

    Mhairi Black, the youngest person ever elected to the UK’s House of Commons, is a vocal advocate for trans rights and has fought for reforms to the Gender Recognition Act.

    Raven-Symoné, the iconic Disney star, used her influence to pressure her employer to publicly condemn Florida’s discriminatory “Don’t Say Gay” bill in 2022.

    Rosie Jones, a British comedian and actor with cerebral palsy, is a strong advocate for greater representation of people with disabilities in the comedy industry. She is actively working to break down barriers and promote inclusivity in the field.

    Wanda Sykes, an actor, comedian, and writer, is using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ equality for all members of the queer community. She is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the LGBTQ+ movement.

    Stormé DeLarverie was a butch lesbian and a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist. She is often credited with playing a significant role in the Stonewall uprising, which was a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. According to Stormé and many eyewitnesses, her scuffle with police on the night of June 28, 1969, outside the Stonewall Inn in New York City, was the catalyst that ignited the uprising, inspiring the crowd to resist and fight back against police oppression. Stormé passed away on May 24, 2014, at the age of 93.

    Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week
    Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com. Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week

  • Gay couple viciously attacked in New York’s Time Square

    Two men, who are believed to be a gay couple, were reportedly assaulted by four individuals in New York City’s Times Square, during which “anti-gay slurs” were used.

    The New York Police Department has stated that the incident, which resulted in the hospitalization of the two victims, may be investigated as a hate crime pending further information. Fox News reported that the attack occurred on April 8th at approximately 10:30 pm while the couple was walking around Times Square.

    The victims have asked to remain anonymous but shared that the group made derogatory comments towards them before assaulting them physically. The couple was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where one of the victims reportedly underwent surgery. No arrests have been made thus far, and the investigation remains ongoing.

    New York is relatively safe for LGBTQ+ travellers. However, like many cities, New York City has experienced incidents of violence and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community in the past. However, it’s difficult to say how frequently such incidents occur, as not all cases are reported to the police or media outlets. According to a report by the New York City Anti-Violence Project, in 2019, hate violence against LGBTQ+ people in New York City increased by 20% compared to the previous year.

    The report also found that transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals were more likely to experience violence and harassment than cisgender individuals.

    It’s worth noting that hate crimes and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals are not unique to New York City and occur in many places around the world.

    According to a report from December 2020, 68% of LGBTQ+ individuals in England and Wales reported experiencing hate crimes based on their sexual orientation or gender identity within the past year, with 27% reporting physical injuries resulting from the attacks.

    Most of these incidents went unreported due to a lack of trust in the police’s ability to take the reports seriously. Marta Lima, who helped create an app for those affected by hate crime, emphasized that every individual in the LGBTQ+ community has a story, but many are unaware of their rights and do not believe reporting incidents will make a difference.

    Anyone who has witnessed or experienced a hate crime is encouraged to report it to the police or visit the True Vision website. In case of an emergency, dial 999.

  • Labour announces they’ll be marching in Prides across the UK, and lots of people are unhappy about that

    Labour announces they’ll be marching in Prides across the UK, and lots of people are unhappy about that

    The opposition party said it was “excited” to announce it was going to be marching in LGBT+ Prides across the UK on Twitter but blocked anyone from replying to their tweet.

    The UK’s Labour Party has said that it will be appearing on Pride marches across the UK in 2023. In a tweet sent late last night (18 April 2023 at 11.54PM) the LGBT+ section of the party, LGBTLabour, announced that it was planning to join marches in cities including, Brighton, Birmingham, Manchester and London.

    However, it closed off replies to the tweet meaning that followers were unable to air their views on the announcement. However the Tweet itself has been ratio’d, it has only recieved 74 likes (at time of publish) but over 709 Quotes.

    THEGAYUK examined the first 100 quotes and found that all were responding negatively to the announcement.

    Despite replies being turned off for the Tweet, Twitter users could reply via “Quotes” and many, many users were very unhappy about Labour joining Pride marches.

    Labour, led by Sir Keir Starmer, is facing heightened scrutiny regarding their stance on LGBTQ+ issues, particularly those relating to transgender individuals.

    In early April, Starmer received criticism for his statement regarding female sex organs, in which he stated that it is “completely biological” for 99.9% of women. Additionally, Labour faced backlash from LGBTQ+ activists for expressing support of the Equality Human Rights Commission’s proposed review of the UK’s Equality Act, which seemingly advocated for a definition of “sex” as biological, potentially impacting both cis and trans individuals negatively.

    Trans activists cautioned against such a change in definition, arguing that it could adversely affect their lives. At Easter, Starmer generated further controversy for meeting with a Manchester church leader with anti-LGBTQ+ links. This was not the first instance of such controversy, as he previously visited Jesus House in London in 2021.

    Now users on Twitter are user “Quotes” to share their distain for Labour

    https://twitter.com/raptorbaitjoe/status/1648646223463604224
    https://twitter.com/QueerThassie/status/1648646355236143104

  • Which reality star has started doing gay porn?

    Below Deck star Lobo is about to embark on a gay porn career

    Lobo is best known for his appearance on the fifth season of Bravo’s reality television show, Below Deck. On the show, Lobo worked as a deckhand for the luxury yacht featured as the set and stage for the season’s action. Lobo enjoyed his time working on the show; he was able to bring all of his experience from working in the cruise and yachting industry to television. “The show was a great opportunity to explore something different. I met nice people and being recognized from TV is a humbling experience, to be sure,” Lobo says.

    When his time on Below Deck ended, Lobo Carreira decided to take his creative energy in an adult-entertainment direction. He and his husband, Alex Ink, accepted an invitation to perform for Lucas Entertainment during the studio’s November 2022 production. “We wanted to explore the experience of being porn actors. So we decided to accept—the experience was on a professional level,” Lobo says.

    Lobo returned to Lucas Entertainment in February 2023.

    It was an easy decision for him to make, since he had an incredible experience the first time he worked with the studio. He especially enjoyed his time with the cast and crew, and never imagined he would make the strong bonds he did. And it is those bonds that are most important to him. “For me, that is the best part of it all,” Lobo says.

    Lobo Carreira is a native of Portugal who boasts masculine good looks, a sculpted body and is well endowed.

    When Lobo is not performing on camera, he enjoys hitting the gym, playing video games, and travelling the world with his husband. Lobo is completely versatile in the bedroom, and he finds himself attracted to strong and masculine men with ample muscles and big packages!

    Want to see more pictures of Lubo click here (NSFW) to go to welovegayporn.com

    Lobo Carreira’s debut scene—dropping on Friday, April 7th 2023—features co-stars Tomas Brand and Steven Angel. The scene will later appear in the movie, Bareback Auditions 23: Fucked Silly.

  • Porn star, Casey Tanner dies, 28

    Porn star, Casey Tanner dies, 28

    Former gay porn actor Casey Tanner, also known as Slayde, has passed away at the age of 28.

    We are very sad in sharing this news, which was announced by some of Casey’s industry colleagues and co-stars on social media.

    While the exact details of his death are not yet known, Liam Riley and Lane Rogers (aka Blake Mitchell), both friends and former partners of Casey, confirmed the news on Twitter, and XBIZ has also confirmed it.

    His boyfriend, took to the comment section of Str8UpGayPorn to say,

    “I would like to inform you all that his death was not due to any overdose situation. He had heath problems that for many years had been progressing. The combination of multiple failed organs, and contracting pneumonia for about the last month of his life, I assure you he passed comfortably in hospice care.

    “It is unreal the amount of love and outreach we have had, and im sure all can understand how it is challenging to get back to every message.”

    Casey Tanner began his career in the adult film industry in 2013 and worked primarily with Helix studios. He collaborated with notable performers such as Calvin Banks, Max Carter, Grayson Lange, and Blake Mitchell, and many others. Casey retired from the industry around 2017 to relocate to San Diego and be with his partner. In addition to his work at Helix, he filmed three scenes for Icon Male in 2014 alongside Adam Russo, Ty Roderick, and Connor Maguire.

  • The Gays are taking over the BBC for Eurovision

    The Gays are taking over the BBC for Eurovision

    Scott Mills and Rylan are both hosting Eurovision Night on BBC Radio 2 while Paddy O’Connell broadcasts the semis.

    BBC Radio 2 – the home of Eurovision 2023 on UK radio – today announces that Scott Mills and Rylan will be the station’s presenters for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 Grand Final which will be broadcast live on Radio 2 on Saturday 13th May. And for the very first time, Radio 2 will also broadcast the Eurovision semi-finals, which will be presented by Paddy O’Connell. 

    Eurovision superfans and Radio 2 presenters, Scott and Rylan – who have been involved in Eurovision coverage for many years – will be bringing their insightful and colourful commentary to the Grand Final on the network, broadcasting live from the centre of the action at Liverpool Arena. The UK is hosting the 2023 event on behalf of the 2022 winners, Ukraine. It will be the culmination of a week in the city for Scott and Rylan, as they are also providing TV commentary for the Semi Finals – both of which, for the first time in the UK’s Eurovision Song Contest history, will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Meanwhile, Scott’s afternoon show (Tuesday to Friday, 2-4pm) on Radio 2 will be coming from Liverpool all week, with Richie Anderson hosting the show on Tuesday and Thursday as Scott prepares to host the semi-finals on TV.

    For the first time, this year Radio 2 will also be broadcasting the two Eurovision Semi-finals, with Paddy O’Connell hosting the network’s live coverage from the Liverpool Arena. In the first semi-final on Tuesday 9th May (8-10pm), fifteen countries are taking part with ten qualifying for the Grand Final on Saturday night. And on Thursday 11th May, Paddy returns with live coverage from the second of the semi-finals, with sixteen countries taking part and ten qualifying for the Grand Final on Saturday night. These shows will also be simulcast on BBC Radio Merseyside.

    Rylan says: “Eurovision is my favourite time of the year, I cannot wait! And I’m so excited and absolutely buzzing to be hosting the Eurovision Grand Final on Radio 2, the biggest and best music event in the world, with my partner-in-crime Scott Mills. We can’t wait to bring listeners closer to the action than ever before, with all the fun, excitement and backstage gossip from what promises to be an unforgettable night.”

    Scott says: “I can’t begin to describe how excited I am to be presenting the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest on Radio 2. I’ve had the great pleasure of being involved with Eurovision in various ways over the years, from commentating alongside Graham Norton to singing karaoke with the contestants, but presenting from the Grand Final in Liverpool is the ultimate childhood dream come true. Rylan and I will be going all out so please come and join the party live on Radio 2!”

    Paddy says: “I’m walking on sunshine to join Radio 2 live in Liverpool hosting the Eurovision semi-finals. Sam Ryder broke the UK Eurovision spell last year and I hope it’s magic for Mae in 2023.”

    Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, said: “The 2023 Eurovision Song Contest will be a very special event and who better to host Radio 2’s coverage of the Grand Final than our very own Scott and Rylan. And I’m delighted that for the first time, Radio 2 will be bringing our listeners all the drama and fun from the semi-finals, hosted by Paddy O’Connell. With years of Eurovision experience under his belt, Paddy is the perfect guide for fans and also those who may be discovering Eurovision for the first time.”

  • Is it okay to watch porn whilst having sex with your partner?

    Is it okay to watch porn whilst having sex with your partner?

    The decision to watch porn while having sex is a personal one that should be made by both partners.

    Some couples find that watching porn together can be a fun and exciting way to enhance their sexual experience, while others may not be comfortable with it. It’s important to communicate with your partner and make sure that both of you are on the same page about watching porn during sex.

    However, it’s important to remember that porn can sometimes create unrealistic expectations about sex, and it can also be addictive for some people. It’s also important to make sure that the porn you’re watching is ethical and consensual. If you or your partner feel uncomfortable or have any concerns about watching porn during sex, it’s important to discuss them openly and honestly.

    Ultimately, the decision to watch porn during sex should be based on mutual consent and respect for each other’s boundaries.

    We of course reached out to Twitter followers to find out what they think!

    What are the downfalls of watching gay porn during sex?

    Yes, there can be potential downsides to watching porn during sex. Some of the potential negative consequences of watching porn during sex include:

    1. Decreased intimacy: Watching porn can create a sense of distance between partners and can detract from the intimacy of the sexual experience.

    2. Unrealistic expectations: Porn can create unrealistic expectations about sex, which can lead to disappointment or frustration if those expectations are not met.

    3. Addiction: Watching porn can become addictive for some people, which can interfere with their ability to have healthy relationships and sexual experiences.

    4. Objectification: Pornography can objectify and dehumanize the people depicted in it, which can lead to a lack of respect for partners and their bodies.

    5. Lack of communication: Watching porn during sex can sometimes be a substitute for genuine communication and exploration of each other’s desires and needs.

    It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these downsides, and some couples may find that watching porn together can be a positive and enjoyable experience.

    Are there upsides to watching porn during sex?

    Is it okay to watch porn whilst having sex with your partner?

    While there can be potential downsides to watching porn during sex, some couples may find that it can also have upsides, including:

    1. Exploration: Watching porn together can provide an opportunity for couples to explore new sexual ideas and activities that they may not have considered before.
    2. Sexual arousal: Porn can be a source of sexual arousal for some people, which can enhance the overall sexual experience.
    3. Variety: Watching porn can add variety to a couple’s sexual routine and can help keep things interesting and exciting.
    4. Mutual enjoyment: When both partners are on board with watching porn together, it can be a shared experience that both parties enjoy.
    5. Improved communication: Watching porn together can facilitate communication about sexual preferences and desires, which can lead to a more fulfilling sexual experience.
  • The UK is the 9th gay-friendliest place in the world

    The UK is the 9th gay-friendliest place in the world

    The UK has been ranked 9th in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index 2023, making it one of the top 10 best places in the world for LGBT+ travel.

    The index, which is published annually by Spartacus International Gay Guide, ranks countries based on a number of factors, including legal protections for LGBT+ people, the availability of LGBT+-friendly services and facilities, and the level of LGBT+ acceptance in society.

    Malta emerged as the indisputable champion for the first time during the EuroPride held in September 2023, reaffirming its selection as the ideal host nation.

    Canada and Switzerland shared the second position, with Switzerland experiencing a significant increase in its score from seven to twelve points due to its adoption of equal marriage and a liberalized gender self-identification law for individuals aged 16 years and above.

    Israel and Vietnam also made notable progress by outlawing ‘conversion therapy’, a harmful and discredited practice. To date, only 23 nations have prohibited this outdated treatment. Meanwhile, the Conservative government of the United Kingdom is slow to act on its commitment to ban conversion therapy across the country.

    This year, the United Kingdom maintained its previous score and secured a joint ninth position along with Germany, Iceland, and Spain.

    The UK scored highly in all of these areas, with particular praise for its legal protections for LGBT+ people and its vibrant LGBT+ scene.

    The UK is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGBT+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal in the UK since 2014, and there are no laws against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

    The UK also has a thriving LGBT+ scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and other venues catering to LGBT+ people. London is particularly known for its vibrant LGBT+ nightlife, and the city hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.

    The Spartacus Gay Travel Index is a valuable resource for LGBT+ travelers, and the UK’s high ranking is a testament to its welcoming and inclusive environment.

    Here are some of the best places to visit in the UK for LGBT+ travelers:

    • London: London is one of the most LGBT+-friendly cities in the world, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and other venues catering to LGBT+ people. The city also hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.
    • Brighton: Brighton is another popular LGBT+ destination in the UK. The city has a large LGBT+ population and a thriving LGBT+ scene. It was recently crowned the gayest place in the UK.
    • Manchester: Manchester is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a strong LGBT+ community. The city has a number of LGBT+-friendly bars, clubs, and other venues.
    • Edinburgh: Edinburgh is a historic city with a thriving LGBT+ scene. The city hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.
    • Cardiff: Cardiff is the capital of Wales and a popular LGBT+ destination. The city has a number of LGBT+-friendly bars, clubs, and other venues.

    Where is the worst place in the world for gay people to visit?

    Unfortunately, there are still many places in the world where the LGBTQ+ community faces discrimination, persecution, and limited rights. Some of the countries with the worst gay rights records include:

    1. Chechnya: The Chechen Republic, a federal subject of Russia, has been accused of conducting a violent campaign against gay men, including torture and extrajudicial killings.
    2. Saudi Arabia: Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can be punished with imprisonment, fines, or even death.
    3. Iran: Same-sex activity is illegal in Iran and can be punishable by death. LGBTQ+ individuals in Iran also face discrimination and harassment.
    4. Uganda: Homosexuality is illegal in Uganda and can be punished with life imprisonment. LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda face harassment, discrimination, and violence.
    5. Nigeria: Same-sex relationships are illegal in Nigeria and can be punished with imprisonment, fines, or even death. LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria face discrimination, harassment, and violence.
  • Five ways to be more mindful as a gay man

    Five ways to be more mindful as a gay man

    Gay and Mindful: It’s Possible!

    Being a gay man can present unique challenges when it comes to mindfulness. With discrimination and stereotyping prevalent in society, finding peace and acceptance within oneself can be difficult. However, with dedication and practice, it is possible to cultivate a mindful mindset that fosters compassion, positivity, and self-love.

    Here are five ways to be more mindful as a gay man.

    Start with Your Breath

    Mindfulness begins with the breath. Take a few minutes each day to simply focus on your breathing. Notice the sensation of the air entering and exiting your body. When your mind begins to wander, gently bring it back to your breath. This practice can help to calm your mind and reduce stress and anxiety.

    Embrace Your Body

    As a gay man, you may have struggled with body image issues or societal pressure to conform to a certain standard of beauty. However, true mindfulness involves accepting and embracing your body as it is. Practice gratitude for your body and all that it does for you, and engage in self-care activities that make you feel good, such as exercise or a relaxing bath.

    Build Loving Connections

    Being mindful and gay can be difficult but here's how to do it!

    Mindfulness involves connecting with others in a positive and meaningful way. Seek out relationships that uplift and support you, whether with friends, family, or a romantic partner. Openly express your emotions and listen to the emotions of others with an open heart.

    Let Go of Judgment

    Judgmental thoughts towards oneself and others can block the path to mindfulness. Practice non-judgment by observing your thoughts without attaching value judgments to them. Instead of criticizing yourself or others, approach situations with curiosity and a willingness to learn.

    Celebrate Your Authentic Self

    As a gay man, embracing your authenticity is key to mindfulness. Celebrate your unique qualities and interests, and don’t be afraid to express them. Be open to exploring new experiences and opportunities that align with your true self. When you live authentically, you cultivate a sense of inner peace and fulfilment.

    Incorporating these practices into your daily life can help you cultivate a more mindful, compassionate, and authentic mindset as a gay man. As you embark on your mindfulness journey, remember to be kind to yourself and approach each day with openness and curiosity. With time and practice, mindfulness can become a powerful tool to help you navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

  • 10 signs your boyfriend is toxic and you need to end things

    10 signs your boyfriend is toxic and you need to end things

    Dating can be a rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with ups and downs. But there’s a difference between the occasional bump in the road and a toxic relationship that needs to come to an end. If you’re feeling drained, unhappy, and unsure where your relationship is headed, it could be time to take a closer look at your boyfriend’s behaviour. Here are ten signs that your boyfriend is toxic, and it’s time to end things.

    Is your boyfriend toxic?

    The first step in addressing toxic behaviour is acknowledging it. No one deserves to be treated poorly, and if your boyfriend is exhibiting any of these signs, it’s time to take a closer look at the relationship.

    Feeling drained and unhappy?

    Relationships should bring joy and fulfilment, not constant stress and anxiety. If you’re feeling drained, unhappy, or like you’re always walking on eggshells around your partner, it’s a clear sign something needs to change. Don’t be afraid to put yourself first and prioritize your own well-being.

    Here are 10 signs to watch for:

    1. He’s always critical of you

    Negative comments, constant criticism, and belittling behaviour are all red flags of a toxic relationship. Your partner should make you feel loved, appreciated, and valued, not the opposite.

    2. He isolates you from friends and family

    If your boyfriend tries to control who you spend time with or isolates you from your loved ones, it’s a clear sign of toxic behaviour. Isolation is a tactic used by abusers to assert their control over their partners.

    3. He constantly blames you for everything

    A toxic partner will never take responsibility for their actions or apologize for their mistakes. Instead, they’ll blame you for everything wrong in the relationship.

    4. He’s manipulative and controlling

    Manipulative and controlling actions are a clear sign of toxicity, and it can take many forms, from gaslighting to emotional blackmail.

    5. You’re always walking on eggshells

    If you feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells around your boyfriend or afraid to express your opinions, it’s a clear sign of a toxic relationship. Your partner should encourage your growth and respect your boundaries.

    6. He’s jealous and possessive

    Jealous and possessive behaviour is another common sign of a toxic relationship. A healthy relationship is built on trust, not jealousy.

    7. He’s emotionally abusive

    Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, and it takes many forms, from verbal abuse to manipulation to gaslighting.

    8. He’s unfaithful or dishonest

    Infidelity and dishonesty are clear signs of a toxic relationship, and they can cause irreparable damage to trust and intimacy.

    9. He refuses to take responsibility

    A toxic partner will never admit to wrongdoing, take responsibility for their actions, or apologize for hurting you.

    10. He refuses to change

    If your boyfriend refuses to acknowledge his toxic behaviour or take steps to change it, it’s a clear sign that the relationship needs to come to an end.

    There are plenty of signs that the relationship you're in is toxic

    Time to end things and move on!

    Remember, you deserve to be treated with love, respect, and kindness in any relationship. If your boyfriend is exhibiting any of these toxic signs, it’s time, if it’s safe to do so, to end things and move on. Keeping safe is your priority, so keep friends and family informed of what you want and what you’re planning to do.

    Sometimes ending a toxic relationship can be scary or painful, but ultimately it’s the healthiest choice for you and your future.

  • Icon and legend, Paul O’Grady dies, 67

    Icon and legend, Paul O’Grady dies, 67

    The comedian and presenter Paul O’Grady has passed away at the age of 67, as confirmed by his husband Andre Portasio in a statement.

    O’Grady gained fame in the 1990s through his drag queen persona Lily Savage and went on to host popular TV programs such as Blankety Blank and other light entertainment shows like Blind Date. In the later stages of his career, he became a host of chat shows and showcased his affection for dogs on-screen. According to Mr Portasio, O’Grady passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on Tuesday evening. “He will be missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals, and those who appreciated his humor, wit, and empathy.”

    Mr Portasio expressed gratitude on O’Grady’s behalf for the love he received throughout his career.

    Just a few weeks ago, O’Grady had been on tour playing the character Miss Hannigan in the musical Annie. Taking to Instagram after performing in Newcastle, he expressed his delight at playing the role again and working with an “amazing and lovely” cast.

    However, he recently departed from his weekly show on Radio 2 in August 2022, citing his displeasure at sharing his Sunday afternoon slot. O’Grady was also scheduled to present on Boom Radio for Easter Sunday, less than two weeks away from the time of his passing.

    According to O’Grady’s long-time radio producer, Malcolm Prince, he had visited the star on Tuesday afternoon at his residence, where O’Grady seemed to be “laughing, smiling, and full of life.” Prince took to Twitter to express his shock at O’Grady’s passing, stating that O’Grady was proud of his work in Annie, thrilled to be back on Boom Radio, and eagerly anticipating several new projects. Prince also referred to O’Grady as a unique talent and a dear friend.

    On Wednesday, Zoe Ball, during her Radio 2 breakfast show, expressed her and the team’s deep sadness upon hearing the news of O’Grady’s passing. She acknowledged that O’Grady had a special place in the hearts of Radio 2 listeners and the entire team.

    Wirral Star

    Paul O’Grady was born in Birkenhead, Merseyside, in 1955 to a mother whose maiden name was Savage, which is believed to have influenced his famous drag persona. He began performing as Lily Savage in the 1970s and gained widespread recognition by advocating for LGBT issues.

    Savage performed a solo show for eight years at London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern. Later, he hosted The Lily Savage Show, a chat show for the BBC, in 1997.

    O’Grady then presented a revamped version of the game show Blankety Blank, which aired until 2002. He later hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, which started on ITV in 2004, then moved to Channel 4 from 2006 to 2009 before being revived again in 2013 for two years on ITV.

    In 2013, guest hosts fronted the chat show when O’Grady had a health scare. He had previously experienced heart attacks in 2002 and 2006, with the latter necessitating intensive care. In 2017, after the death of his friend Cilla Black O’Grady stepped up as the presenter of Blind Date when the show was rebooted on Channel 5.

    Award-winning

    Paul O’Grady had a successful career in television and won numerous awards including a TV Bafta, British Comedy Award and a National Television Award for The Paul O’Grady Show.

    In 2008, he was awarded an MBE for his contribution to the entertainment industry in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. O’Grady had a daughter with his friend Diane Jansen in 1974 and later entered a marriage of convenience with a Portuguese lesbian in 1977, legally divorcing her in 2005.

    He married his husband in a ceremony held in London in 2017. In November, O’Grady was appointed as one of Kent’s deputy lieutenants, a position that involves representing the King at events in the area. O’Grady lived in Aldington, near Ashford.