Royal Family Mourns "Unexpected" Death of Comedian Paul O'Grady

The royal family is honoring Paul O'Grady following his death.

After news of his passing broke, King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's official social media accounts paid tribute to the late comedian. The March 29 Instagram post featured a photo of Paul, Camilla and a West Highland white terrier named George during their February 2022 visit to Battersea Brands Hatch center in Kent.

"Deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O'Grady," the message read, "who worked closely with Her Majesty in support of @Battersea, providing lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories."

The visit had been featured on a December 2022 episode of Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs, a series that followed the broadcaster as he visited the animal rescue's sites.

"We have wonderful memories of this trip to our Brands Hatch centre," the organization, of which Paul was an ambassador, wrote in the comments. "He will be so dearly missed by all of us at Battersea."

Camilla had also joined Paul on visits to Battersea's London location in both 2012 and 2016, and they'd worked together to support other causes, both attending the NHS Heroes Awards in 2018.

Paul died at the age of 67 on March 28, his husband Andre Portasio confirmed to the BBC. A cause of death has yet to be revealed.

"It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening," Andre said in the March 29 statement. "He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humor, wit and compassion. I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."

Over the course of his career, Paul appeared on several TV series—starring as drag queen Lily Savage on The Lily Savage Show and hosting programs like Blind Date, Blankety Blank and the BAFTA-winning The Paul O'Grady Show. He was also a presenter on BBC radio and acted on stage, recently playing Miss Hannigan in Annie The Musical.

"Everyone at Annie The Musical is stunned and saddened by the passing of Paul O'Grady," the U.K. production shared on Twitter. "An incredible Miss Hannigan and an irreplaceable, hilarious and generous person who we will all miss immensely. Our thoughts are with Paul's family and friends at this very sad time."