Paul O'Grady always knew he was at great risk after suffering a number of cardiac arrests and kidney failure across his life.
At the age of 67, the beloved TV presenter "unexpectedly but peacefully" passed away at his home on Tuesday, surrounded by his pet dogs and husband Andre Portasio.
But in an unearthed interview with The Mirror, Paul expected an early death, and told the publication: "I do count my blessings. I have had two heart attacks, and if I get to 60 that will be amazing.
"I don't fear anything nowadays. There has to be an angel out there. They are trying to steer me out of trouble 24 hours a day."
Discussing the time his heart briefly stopped beating while in the back of an ambulance, the funnyman went on to share: "Everyone asks: 'Did you see anything?' No, sorry. Nothing. No heavenly choirs, no light at the end of the tunnel."
Andre announced the tragic news of Paul's death in a statement, which read: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
"We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss.
"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."
Just a fortnight ago, the famed drag performer, who went by the name Lily Savage on stage, revealed to social media fans that one of his pet pigs, Tom Tom, had sadly been put to sleep after being diagnosed with a tumour.
Paul explained in a video: "Got back from a week in Newcastle playing Miss Hannigan in Annie to find that Tom Tom, one of my pigs had been put to sleep.
"I knew it was coming as he'd been diagnosed with a tumour but even so it’s awful when you lose a pet. He was the cheekiest of the gang and one of the other pigs who was obviously very fond of him is now depressed and gone into mourning, and there’s those who say that animals don’t have feelings."
He concluded: "On a lighter note, I’m thoroughly enjoying playing Hannigan again after so long especially with a truly amazing and lovely cast. Next stop Edinburgh."
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