Paul O'Grady, a British comedian and television star, has passed away at the age of 67

Paul O'Grady was a much-loved comedian and host on British television after becoming famous as drag queen Lily Savage. Age 67.

An alternative gay comedy scene star who became a national treasure was celebrated by Britain's queen consort, who supported animal charities with O'Grady.

According to O'Grady's partner, Andre Portasio, he passed away "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening.

Those who enjoyed his humor, wit, and compassion as well as his loved ones and friends will miss him greatly, Portasio said.

Originally from Birkenhead, near Liverpool, O'Grady became Savage, the tart-tongued drag queen he performed as when working as a local authority care worker.

In London, Savage hosted talent shows and stand-up comedy shows at Royal Vauxhall Tavern. In the AIDS crisis, O'Grady spoke out against the anti-gay laws passed by the Conservative government of Margaret Thatcher.

In the latter part of his career, as Paul O'Grady, he hosted shows such as "The Paul O'Grady Show," "Blind Date," and "Blankety Blank."

In a tweet, the royal family posted a photo of O'Grady and Camilla with the caption: "Deeply saddened by Paul O'Grady's passing. Paul shared many ripples of laughter with Her Majesty."

Besides Portasio, whom he married in 2017, O'Grady also leaves a daughter from a previous relationship and a brother from a previous relationship.