Three years after the nation lost Paul O’Grady, heartbreak has returned for his fans — this time with the loss of someone who symbolised the gentlest, most tender side of the late TV icon.
Paul’s beloved dog Eddie has died.
The devastating news was confirmed on Monday morning (March 2) by Paul’s husband, Andre Portasio, leaving animal lovers and long-time viewers deeply emotional.
For many, Eddie wasn’t “just a dog.”
He was family.
And to Paul’s fans, he felt like one last living connection to the man they never stopped missing.
“Our hearts are heavy”
In an emotional Instagram post, Andre revealed that Eddie passed away over the weekend after suffering a sudden stroke. He was 14 years old.
“Today, our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our beloved Eddie, who left us last Saturday after a sudden stroke,” Andre wrote.
“It’s hard to put into words the depth of our sadness. Eddie was a cherished member of our family.”
He described Eddie as spirited, loving — and full of personality right to the end.
“He was full of life, full of energy, and had a special knack for bossing us around until the very end.”
A dog who carried Paul’s spirit
The message struck a particularly deep chord because Eddie was so closely tied to Paul’s memory.
Throughout the years, fans regularly saw Eddie by Paul’s side — at home, in candid moments, and surrounded by the other rescue dogs Paul adored so fiercely.
Andre’s words captured that bond in a way that left many in tears.
“I like to think that Paul is waiting for him on the other side,” he wrote,
“ready to give him all the love and belly rubs he deserves.”
It was a single sentence — but one that reopened old grief for thousands who still feel Paul’s absence.
“Run into Paul’s arms, Eddie”
The post was accompanied by a series of photographs showing Paul with Eddie across the years — smiling, relaxed, and completely himself.
Within minutes, the comments were flooded with messages from fans who felt as though they’d lost Paul all over again.
“Paul will definitely be there with open arms. I still miss him on our screens so much.” “Run into Paul’s arms, Eddie.” “I’m sure Paul was there waiting for him.”
One fan wrote poignantly:
“Paul was the only TV personality I ever cried over when he died. This has brought all those feelings back.”
More than a goodbye
Andre also took a moment to thank those who had cared for Eddie over the years, giving special mention to a close family friend.
“We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Aunt Moira for all the love and care you devoted to Eddie,” he said.
“Your kindness brought him so much happiness.”
It was a reminder of the quiet, private life Paul cherished — filled with loyalty, laughter, animals, and love away from the cameras.
A final reunion
Paul O’Grady devoted his life to animals, rescue, and compassion. Through Eddie, fans saw that love reflected back at him — unconditional and constant.
Now, as many have said online, there’s comfort in the image Andre shared so gently:
Paul waiting.
Arms open.
A wagging tail running toward him.
For fans still grieving Paul, Eddie’s passing feels like the closing of a chapter — but also a reunion that feels strangely right.
