Paul O’Grady mural painted over days after presenter’s death

nme.com:

died at the age of 67, “unexpectedly but peacefully.”After hearing the news, artist Chris Moore – who is known by the name Manchester Murals – – created a black and white tribute to O’Grady on the Fallowfield Loop in Manchester.

You can see the creation here:New mural of Paul O’Grady in Manchester. Fabulous! pic.twitter.com/d9k0MBmrRN— Jason Reid (@JasonReidUK) April 1, 2023However, just days after the mural appeared, it was painted over by another artist.Speaking to BBC News, Moore said described it as a “shame” but said this was just “part of the street art scene”.He continued: “There were lots of people who went to visit it who were really disappointed on the day and people who planned to visit it over the coming days to remember Paul,” he said.Moore said he was thinking about ways he could make a permanent installation of the mural in the city as a tribute.O’Grady was known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage and for presenting light entertainment shows including Blankety Blank.

His husband Andre Portasio announced the news last week.“It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening,” Portasio said in a statement [via BBC News]. “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.”After O’Grady rose to fame in the ’90s with his drag queen persona, he went on to host The Paul O’Grady Show on ITV from 2004 to 2005 before moving with it to Channel 4 from 2006 until 2009.