Paul O'Grady reveals why his BBC Radio 2 show won't air again until May

Paul O'Grady has revealed that his BBC Radio 2 weekend show will not air again until May due to a "management decision".

The 66-year-old presenter told fans that he will now do "13 weeks on and then 13 off" in the Paul O'Grady on the Wireless slot on Sunday, from 5-7pm.

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Sharing a picture along with one of his dogs, Nancy, the comedian and former drag performer explained that Sunday's show would be his last until later in the year.

He will be replaced in the weekend slot by stand-up comedian Rob Beckett.

O'Grady wrote: "It’s my last Radio 2 Sunday show for quite sometime, our listening figures have shot up so a great big thank you to everyone who listens.

"While I’m on the subject I’d also like to thank my producer (sounds very grand) Malcolm Prince who is one of the best in the business and hasn’t cracked once in the 14 years we’ve been on air.

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"There’s a new regime now, I do 13 weeks on and then 13 off which is nothing to do with me as it’s a management decision.

"So, all being well and providing I’m not in India or Borneo, travel restrictions permitting, I should be back some time in May. Take it easy."

O'Grady has taken on fewer TV commitments in recent years, since his chat show came to an end and the revival of Blind Date finished in 2019.

He continues to front For the Love of Dogs, in which he documents the care given to animals at Battersea Dog and Cats Home, as well as his radio show.

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O'Grady recently dismissed the possibility he would return to the drag persona of Lily Savage which helped to make his name.

He said: "It’s always been ‘why don’t you be Lily Savage again?’ Well, because one, I’m too old. And two, I couldn’t be bothered.

“At the time I thoroughly enjoyed it but I’ve moved on. Even in panto I wouldn’t fancy it.”

Watch: Duchess of Cornwall beats Paul O'Grady in dog challenge