Trudie Goodwin: Paul O’Grady could have been a serious actor

'The Bill' star Trudie Goodwin believes Paul O'Grady could've been a "serious actor".

The entertainment world has been in mourning this week following the shock passing of the radio and TV star, who died on Tuesday (28.03.23) aged 67.

The comedian - who rose to fame in the 1990s with his drag queen persona Lily Savage - made many iconic TV cameos, including ‘The Bill’ as police informant Roxanne for three episodes between 1988 and 1990.

Trudie, 71 - who is best known for playing Sergeant June Ackland in the police drama from 1983 to 2007 - was stunned by his performance on the show, claiming he could have been a serious actor.

She told The Guardian newspaper: “Not only was Paul an incredibly kind, funny and generous man, he was also a very fine actor.

"I first met him when he appeared alongside me on ‘The Bill’ and I just loved him. I thought he was a great guy; everyone did. He could have easily made a career being a serious actor if he wanted to.

“He was playing Roxanne, a [character described as a] transvestite prostitute, which back in the late 1980s was pretty groundbreaking on a fairly serious drama. His performance was brave and touching. It was a breakthrough moment for him.

"I met him lots of times after that and he just always made you feel better.”

Tributes from celebrities, friends and fans poured in following the “unexpected” passing of the former Radio 2 star.

Sir Elton John praised Paul for his support of LGBTQ+ rights and his activism, claiming he “went places nobody had gone before.”

Taking to Instagram, the musician uploaded a picture of himself alongside Paul dressed as his drag alter ego.

The caption read: “Saddening news to hear of Paul O’Grady’s passing this morning.

“A brilliant entertainer, wit, and supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and the fight against AIDS and HIV who I was fortunate enough to spend time with including when he hosted @davidfurnish’s and my Stag Party before our Civil Partnership in 2005.

“Thank you for all the joy you brought into the world, Paul. You went places nobody had gone before and we will miss you very much. (sic)"