Andre Portasio, Paul O’Grady’s spouse, has spoken out for the first time since confirming his partner’s passing earlier this week.
Portasio verified that the national icon passed ‘unexpectedly but peacefully’ on Tuesday evening at the age of 67.
Producer Portasio has shared a picture of himself and Paul on vacation, revealing that it was the last portrait they ever took together.
He also praised supporters, saying he was “touched” by their generosity.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, Portasio wrote: ‘In time I hope to write to everyone individually and thank you for all posts, messages, phone calls, emails, cards and flowers of support. I much appreciate you all taking the time to reach out. I’m so very touched and I’m sure Paul would be too!’
He added: ‘Browsing for a picture I found the last picture we ever took together. Unbeknownst to us back in January this would be our last ever holiday together.’
O’Grady’s close friend Linda Thorson disclosed hours earlier that the celebrity perished in his own bed, with his spouse next to him.
Addressing his husband’s death earlier this week, Portasio said in a statement: ‘It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
‘We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss.
‘He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.
‘I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.’
Tributes from the entertainment industry have been flooding in, with Carol Vorderman and Lorraine Kelly among the first to send their thoughts, while the royal family has also expressed their sorrow.