Paul O’Grady leaves staggering amount of money in his will to Battersea Dogs Home

Virgin Radio

13 Mar 2024, 12:46

TV presenter and animal lover Paul O’Grady’s final act of generosity has been revealed. 

The entertainer, who passed away aged 67 in March 2023, had been an ambassador for Battersea since 2012 and the charity featured in his hit TV show, Paul O'Grady: For The Love of Dogs. 

After his death, Battersea set up a tribute fund in his name, which has currently received over £305,681, and over a year on from his passing, it seems Paul has continued to do amazing things for the charity. 

According to The Sun, the Lily Savage star left Battersea a brilliant £550,000 in his will, with a total of £775,000 set aside for causes close to his heart. £50,000 of that also went to elephant and orangutan charities, and another £50,000 to the Salvation Army. 

£125,000 is also set aside for his five pet dogs, and a source close to Paul told The Sun: “This is typical of Paul as he put his money where his mouth was by leaving cash to charities that had special meaning to him.

“And though £125,000 seems like a lot of money to spend on his dogs, they also meant the world to him and he wanted to ensure they always receive the best love and care.”

The rest of his £15.5m will is expected to go to Paul’s widower Andre Portasio, daughter Sharon Mousley and sister Sheila Rudd. Agent Joan Marshrons is set to look after all five of Paul’s dogs - Nancy, Arfur, Conchita, Eddie and Sausage. 

Battersea Chief Executive Peter Laurie told the publication after the will was revealed: “Battersea is truly overwhelmed and deeply grateful to be remembered by our late friend and Ambassador, Paul, in his Will.

“This further shows what we knew to be true of Paul during his life, his unwavering commitment and devotion to helping the thousands of animals that arrive at our centres every year.”

He added that Battersea will “forever be indebted to Paul” for his constant support of the animal rescue charity 

Paul’s amazing contribution comes after ITV confirmed a feature-length tribute documentary and his final TV project will air this Easter. 

The Life and Death of Lily Savage will feature interviews with Paul's close family and friends including - for the first time - his daughter Sharyn. Stars such as Sir Ian McKellen, Julian Clary, Jo Brand, Alan Carr, Jools Holland and Virgin Radio’s own Graham Norton will all also feature.

ITV have also revealed today (8th March) that Paul’s final TV project, Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure will also air this spring to mark the first anniversary of his death.

The Life and Death of Lily Savage and Paul O’Grady’s Great Elephant Adventure will air on ITV1 and ITVX this Easter.