Paul O'Grady was was "full of life" and "surrounded by his beloved dogs" just hours before he died, according to his pal Malcom Prince.
The Lily Savage star passed away 'unexpectedly and 'peacefully' on Tuesday, aged 67.
The star's colleague Malcolm, 58, who produced Paul's show on BBC Radio 2, has now paid tribute to his friend in a heartfelt post.
Speaking about the last time he saw his pal, he tweeted: "Surrounded by his beloved dogs, he was laughing, smiling, and full of life. He was so proud of 'Annie', so happy to be back on Boom Radio, and he was looking forward to so many new projects.
"And now he's gone. I can't believe it. We have lost a unique talent - and I've lost a dear friend. We were all lucky to have Paul in our lives. My heart goes out to Andre, Paul's family, and friend. Oh how I'll miss him."
Malcom and Paul have worked together for years and were fan favourites on the comedian's Radio 2 show.
When Paul signed off his last show for the broadcaster following a 14-year stint, Malcom went with him.
The pair then announced they were joining Boom Radio with Paul set to host a one off Easter Sunday radio show.
Speaking ahead of the show, he said: “It’s great to be working with the team at Boom again. It already feels like my new radio home.
“My producer Malcolm and I are looking forward to our special TeamPOG show on Easter Sunday – who knows, this could be the start of a regular gig!”
In a statement released on Tuesday, Paul's husband, Mr Portasio, confirmed his passing, saying that Paul died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on the evening of March 28.
He said: "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."
A whole host of tributes have flooded in for the For the Love of Dogs star, including Battersea Dogs and Cats home, who championed the animal lover.
In a statement shared with the PA news agency, Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie said the charity was “joining the nation” in mourning the loss of the star, who helped raise its profile to millions around the world.
“Battersea will forever remember Paul as a devoted animal lover with the biggest heart, who fell head over heels in love with every dog he met at our centres,” he said.
“Paul will always be associated with Battersea and we are truly saddened to have lost such a true friend and huge part of our charity."
