Paul O’Grady wins National Television Award months after his death as dogs steal the show

Paul O’Grady in For The Love of Dogs© ITV

Months after his death devastated fans across the world, Paul O’Grady was among the winners at this year’s National Television Awards, as the crowd at London’s O2 Arena rose to their feet to award him a standing ovation.

Campaigner and TV icon Paul passed away earlier this year, with his death confirmed in a statement from his partner Andre Portasio, wo said: “He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.”

In April it was then revealed that the 67-year-old had died from sudden arrhythmic death syndrome – or SADS – when a person dies suddenly following a cardiac arrest and no obvious cause can be found.

A multi NTA winner thanks shows like The Paul O’Grady Show, Paul, known to millions as fierce drag alter ego Lily Savage, is one of Britain’s greatest TV icons and his legacy lived on when, after host Joel Dommett caused a brief halt to proceedings to pay tribute to him, Paul added another NTA victory to his name, as For the Love of Dogs triumphed in the Factual category, beating the likes of Clarkson’s Farm and The Martin Lewis Money Show.

The result had thousands out of their seats at the O2 Arena, as staff and dogs from Battersea Dogs Home, the place Paul called ‘his second home’ took to the stage to accept the trophy.

And, just as Paul would want, it was one of the dogs who stole the show, as they barked throughout the acceptance speech.

Paul’s posthumous win at the National Television Awards received a huge reaction from viewers at home, as scores of fans took to social media to celebrate.

One posted: “If there’s a send off paul o grady deserved, this is it, getting an award for the most important creatures in his life Paul, you’re gone but not forgotten”