Andre Portasio received two heartfelt letters from Queen Camilla after the passing of his husband, Paul O’Grady. The couple shared a love for animals, particularly dogs, and collaborated on supporting Battersea Dogs and Cats home. Andre recalled how Paul and Camilla interacted as friends, with Camilla engaging with Paul in a down-to-earth manner. Despite appreciating Camilla’s letters, Andre felt unsure about how to reply, weighing the formal etiquette of addressing the Queen.
In an emotional interview with The Mirror, Andre Portasio shared his plans to memorialize Paul by donating items to the V&A, including dresses and wigs worn by Lily Savage. Although Paul was modest about the significance of these items, Andre believes they possess historical value and belong to the nation. He recounts Paul’s weariness towards the demands of maintaining Lily Savage, noting that the character would make periodic comebacks. By preserving these items in a public space, Andre aims to carry forward Paul’s legacy and share his talent with a wider audience.
Reflecting on the public’s response to Paul’s passing, Andre expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. He described the heartwarming gestures of flowers, cards, and miniature dogs left by well-wishers outside their home. Andre disclosed his reluctance to be present in the house on the anniversary of Paul’s death, opting to travel to New Zealand to remember Paul in a different setting. He intends to take Paul’s passport with him as a symbolic gesture of having his husband accompany him on this trip, fulfilling Paul’s wish to explore New Zealand.
Andre disclosed his struggles in coping with the aftermath of Paul’s passing, emphasizing the impact of the public’s affection for Paul. The overwhelming expressions of grief and admiration highlighted the depth of Paul’s popularity and the lasting imprint he left on people’s lives. Despite the challenges of dealing with his grief, Andre remains committed to preserving Paul’s memory and ensuring that his contributions to the entertainment industry are not forgotten. He believes that sharing Paul’s personal items will allow his fans to connect with him on a more intimate level.
In the interview, Andre contemplated the significance of the items kept in their loft, recognizing the historical value of Paul’s costumes and memorabilia. Acknowledging the cultural impact of Paul’s alter ego, Lily Savage, Andre expressed his desire to display these items for the public to appreciate. By entrusting Paul’s legacy to institutions like the V&A, Andre seeks to honor Paul’s creative legacy and celebrate the joy he brought to audiences. He hopes that future generations will be able to experience Paul’s talent and the charm of his iconic characters.
As Andre navigates the complexities of grief and loss, he finds solace in remembering Paul’s spirit and the cherished moments they shared together. The letters from Queen Camilla, the public tributes, and the legacy of Paul’s work serve as reminders of the profound impact he had on those around him. By preserving Paul’s memory and sharing his talent with the world, Andre ensures that his husband’s legacy endures, continuing to bring joy to audiences and honoring Paul’s remarkable life and contributions.
