Paul O’Grady was a proud dad to Sharyn Mousley, who grew up doing the makeup for his alter-ego Lily Savage. Sharyn spoke candidly about her father during a new ITV documentary, which aired on ITV this Easter, marking the first anniversary of Paul’s passing. Paul O’Grady, who rose to fame with his drag queen persona Lily Savage in the 1990s, passed away at the age of 67 from a cardiac arrhythmia. His daughter shares insights into their relationship, including memories of getting tights and trying on outfits for Lily Savage.
The documentary also delves into why Paul O’Grady decided to kill off Lily Savage and includes the first-ever TV interview with his daughter Sharyn. Paul’s daughter Sharyn, who was born after he had a brief relationship with his friend and work colleague Diane Jansen, shared details of their close relationship. Sharyn recalls growing up with Lily Savage as a teenager and even remembers walking around in Lily’s thigh-high boots. Paul also had a close bond with his daughter, giving her away at her wedding and enjoying being a grandfather to her two children. After Paul’s passing, Sharyn expressed her devastation and loss, stating that they all loved him and would miss him.
The documentary showcases Paul O’Grady’s television career, spanning decades and featuring iconic shows like The Big Breakfast and Blankety Blank, where Lily Savage charmed audiences. The close family and friends of Paul, including Sir Ian McKellen, Julian Clary, and Graham Norton, share personal memories and accounts of the beloved presenter and comedian. Sharyn Mousley’s interview provides a unique insight into Paul’s life behind the scenes as Lily Savage and his role as a father and grandfather. The two-part series, The Great Elephant Adventure, also aired posthumously, showcasing Paul’s travels through Thailand and Laos to observe elephant conservation efforts.
Paul O’Grady’s daughter Sharyn, who made her first TV appearance in the documentary, reflects on her experience of growing up with Lily Savage as her father’s alter-ego. Sharyn shares memories of normalizing the everyday tasks of buying tights for Lily Savage and trying on makeup and outfits. Despite the separation between Paul and Lily’s characters, Sharyn remembers their close relationship and the joy Paul experienced becoming a grandfather. The documentary sheds light on the multifaceted personality of Paul O’Grady, showcasing his iconic roles on television, as well as his personal life and relationships. The legacy of Lily Savage and Paul O’Grady continues to be celebrated by fans and loved ones.
As the first anniversary of Paul O’Grady’s passing is marked with The Life and Death of Lily Savage on ITV1, the documentary offers viewers an intimate portrayal of Paul’s life, career, and relationships. Sharyn’s candid interview provides a touching perspective on their father-daughter bond, while friends and colleagues share fond memories of the beloved entertainer. Paul O’Grady’s impact on British television and entertainment is remembered through his iconic characters, groundbreaking shows, and compassionate work as an advocate for animal welfare. The documentary serves as a tribute to Paul’s legacy and the enduring influence of Lily Savage on popular culture. The personal anecdotes and insights shared by Sharyn and others offer a heartfelt glimpse into the man behind the characters and the enduring spirit of Paul O’Grady.
The legacy of Paul O’Grady and Lily Savage lives on through the memories and stories shared in The Life and Death of Lily Savage. Sharyn Mousley’s reflections on her father’s life as an entertainer, comedian, and beloved personality offer a touching tribute to the man behind the iconic characters. The documentary celebrates the achievements and impact of Paul O’Grady on popular culture, television, and the lives of those who knew him. As fans and loved ones remember Paul on the first anniversary of his passing, The Life and Death of Lily Savage serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of a beloved entertainer. Through personal accounts, interviews, and archival footage, the documentary honors the life, work, and spirit of Paul O’Grady.
