In a poignant tribute to his lifelong commitment to animal welfare, the late TV and radio presenter Paul O’Grady has been named PETA’s Person of the Year posthumously. O’Grady, who passed away in March at the age of 67, dedicated a significant portion of his career to advocating for the rights and well-being of animals.
O’Grady’s impactful legacy is marked by his involvement in various animal rights campaigns. He joined PETA in the 1990s to shed light on the issue of animal testing, a cause he championed fervently throughout his life. His efforts extended to supporting campaigns against fur, advocating for the ban on foie gras, and raising awareness about the treatment of orcas in marine parks.
Elisa Allen, PETA Vice President of Programmes, expressed admiration for O’Grady’s unwavering commitment, stating, “Paul O’Grady once said that ‘it is our duty to treat animals with respect,’ and he lived by his own principles every day by being a tireless animal advocate.”
In a heartfelt gesture, O’Grady’s widower, Andre Portasio, will accept the award on his behalf. The recognition comes as a tribute to O’Grady’s impactful contributions to the world of animal welfare.
In his later years, O’Grady gained widespread acclaim for presenting the award-winning documentary series “For The Love Of Dogs,” offering viewers a glimpse into the workings of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. The show, spanning 11 series, earned O’Grady a posthumous National Television Award for Factual Entertainment in 2023.
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where O’Grady served as an ambassador for 11 years, announced the dedication of its veterinary hospital to the late presenter in October. O’Grady’s commitment to animal welfare was further acknowledged with an RSPCA Animal Hero Award.
PETA expressed gratitude to O’Grady for his “lifelong determination to make the world a kinder place for animals.” The organisation emphasised his unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us, stating, “We will always treasure his legacy of compassion.”
The annual PETA Person of the Year award has previously been bestowed upon notable figures, including actor Joaquin Phoenix, Pamela Anderson, F1 driver Sir Lewis Hamilton, Pope Francis, Oprah Winfrey, and the late Sir Roger Moore. Paul O’Grady joins this illustrious list, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and advocacy for animals that will be remembered for years to come.
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