Beloved TV presenter and comedian Paul O’Grady died almost two years from sudden cardiac arrhythmia.

Paul O’Grady has finally received a headstone nearly two years after his death (Image: Channel 4)

Paul O’Grady has finally received a headstone almost two years on from his death. The beloved presenter died aged 67 on March 28, 2023 from sudden cardiac arrhythmia. Last year, it was revealed the comedian was still without a headstone as plans for a memorial in St Rumwold’s Churchyard in Bonnington, Kent, had not yet been accepted.

Paul’s former agent Joan Marshrons said: “It is unfortunately a lengthy process. Rest assured as soon as it comes through a fitting memorial headstone will be in place.” Up until now, his resting place was marked only by a pair of wooden crosses and some ornaments. However, it has been announced that Paul finally has a headstone. The news was shared on Paul’s official Instagram page, which those closest to him continued to run after he died.

The announcement was made on Paul’s official Instagram page (Image: Instagram/Paul O’Grady)

The post began: “Nearly two years since Paul’s sad passing, today I received some good news!

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Commissary Court of the Diocese of Canterbury, the Parish of Bonnington, and the Church of St. Rumwold. Special thanks to Robin Hopkins, Commissary General of the Diocese of Canterbury, for granting permission for the final design of Paul and Brendan’s gravestone.”

The headstone features a small statue of a dog – a fitting tribute to the late star. The post continued: “The addition of a small statue of a dog serves as an honoring tribute to Paul’s unwavering love and support of dogs and animals.

“I appreciate everyone who visits the grave and supports our church community. Your kindness and compassion mean the world to me.”

Paul’s headstone features a small statue of a dog, paying tribute to his love of animals (Image: ITV)

They concluded: “I look forward to finally being able to give Paul a deserving and fitting resting place.”

Paul was buried next to his best friend and former partner Brendan Murphy, who tragically died due to an inoperable brain tumour in 2005. The broadcaster, who originally shot to fame as a drag performer and activist in the 1990s, left behind a staggering £15.5 million in his will – with £125,000 set aside for his five pet dogs.

He gave £500,000 to Battersea Cats and Dogs Home and £775,000 to other organisations close to his heart, including £50,000 to the Salvation Army and £50,000 to elephant and orangutan charities.