ITV Corrie legend Sally Lindsay appears in tears on This Morning as she brushes off show mistake to pay tribute to Paul O'Grady

Coronation Street legend Sally Lindsay paid an emotional tribute to her friend Paul O'Grady as she appeared on This Morning following news of his death, aged 67. The TV star and comedian died 'unexpectedly', his partner confirmed in the early hours of Wednesday morning (March 29).

Andre Portasio said that O'Grady, also known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage, died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening (March 28). Tributes have since been flooding from famous faces and fans alike while also many of the daytime show speaking to those who knew Paul.

On This Morning, Holly Willoughby and her new co-host Joel Dommett were re-joined by Vanessa Feltz, who had earlier shared her thoughts and memories following Paul's passing, as they hosted a phone-in for viewers to get in touch. "There have been so many," Vanessa revealed. "The lines have been aflame with people just wanting to say how wonderful he was."

READ MORE: ITV shares bittersweet news on For The Love of Dogs as they release statement on "shocking" death of Paul O'Grady

Holly then went on to introduce Sally. "We are going to check in with one of Paul's closest friends now, Sally Lindsay," she said before adding to their guest, who appeared via video link from south east London: "We're all feeling it, I can't imagine how you are because you were friends for a long time."

The actress was instantly overcome with emotion as she said: "It's quite a shock this morning." She then shared why she wanted to appear on the ITV programme as she continued: "I am with you because I know he would have said if you got anyone else or anyone he didn't know, he'd have said, 'What have you got her on for, I can't sand her!'

"And that's why I am here. I'd rather not be,