Paul O'Grady's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 22, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Paul O'Grady. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Paul O'Grady was a multifaceted English entertainer known for his work as a comedian, broadcaster, actor, and writer. He initially gained fame in the 1980s London gay scene as his drag persona, Lily Savage, achieving mainstream popularity in the 1990s. Later, he transitioned from the Lily Savage character to become a successful television and radio presenter, most notably with 'The Paul O'Grady Show.' His career spanned various entertainment mediums, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in British pop culture.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1991: Perrier Award Nomination

In 1991, Paul O'Grady was nominated for the Perrier Award alongside Jack Dee, Eddie Izzard, and Frank Skinner.

1992: Perrier Comedy Award Nomination

In 1992, Paul O'Grady was nominated for the Perrier Comedy Award as Lily Savage, which brought him mainstream attention.

1994: Stonewall Equality Show and Comedy Award Nominations

In 1994, Paul O'Grady headlined Stonewall's Equality Show, played Nancy in Oliver! and was nominated for two British Comedy Awards.

1997: Won Best Entertainment Program

In 1997, An Evening with Lily Savage was awarded Best Entertainment Program at the National Television Awards.

2000: Comedy Award Nominations

In 2000, O'Grady earned nominations for both Best Comedy Entertainment Personality and Programme at the British Comedy Awards for Lily Live!.

March 2005: Awarded Best Daytime Programme

In March 2005, The Paul O'Grady Show was awarded Best Daytime Programme by the Royal Television Society, and O'Grady won Best Entertainment Performance at the BAFTAs.

2005: Honorary Fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University

In 2005, Liverpool John Moores University awarded Paul O'Grady an honorary fellowship for services to entertainment.

2008: Appointment as MBE

In 2008, Paul O'Grady was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to entertainment.

2010: Honorary Doctor of Arts from De Montfort University

In 2010, Paul O'Grady received an honorary Doctor of Arts from De Montfort University.

January 2014: Nomination for National Television Award

In January 2014, Paul O'Grady's Working Britain, a two-part BBC documentary series, was nominated for a National Television Award.

September 2016: Award for Outstanding Contribution to Animal Welfare

In September 2016, Paul O'Grady was recognized for his work with animals, winning the award for Outstanding Contribution to Animal Welfare at the RSPCA's Animal Hero Awards.