HomeUK NewsPete Wicks Finally Speaks Out on Being Called “The New Paul O’Grady”...
Pete Wicks Finally Speaks Out on Being Called “The New Paul O’Grady” — And What He Said Has Fans Cheering!
Pete Wicks has finally spoken out after being hailed by fans as the potential “new Paul O’Grady” – and his response might surprise you.
The 36-year-old reality TV star, best known for his appearances on The Only Way is Essex, recently fronted the heartwarming dog rescue series For Dogs’ Sake on U&W. The series followed Pete’s journey at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre in Basildon, Essex – and clearly struck a chord with viewers.
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Pete’s For Dog’s Sake series has been renewed (Credit: ITV)
After news broke last month that Pete had secured not only two more seasons of the show but also a festive Christmas special, fans began buzzing even louder – with many calling him the perfect man to follow in Paul O’Grady’s legendary footsteps.
Paul was known for his love of dogs (Credit: ITV)
Paul, who passed away in March 2023 aged 67, was beloved for his work on For The Love Of Dogs on ITV, hosting the show across 11 heartfelt series. Following his death, This Morning star Alison Hammond took over presenting duties – but not all viewers have been thrilled.
Some fans have taken to social media, suggesting Pete Wicks would’ve been a far better fit. One X (formerly Twitter) user bluntly wrote: “You need a different host ASAP. Take a look at Pete Wicks For Dogs’ Sake. He would’ve been perfect to take over from our darling Paul #FLOD.”
In a candid new interview with OK!, Pete addressed the comparisons head-on. And while he was flattered, he was also deeply respectful.
“I don’t feel like the new Paul O’Grady – he was an idol of mine and I don’t think anyone will be able to replace him,” he said. “But this is a passion project for me. Being around animals is the only time I feel truly content. But it’s about the dogs, and the incredible work of the Dogs Trust. They say heroes don’t wear capes, and it’s true.”
Still, with fans continuing to back him as the emotional and compassionate successor to Paul, many are wondering: Could ITV be watching?
One fan commented: “Surely someone like Pete Wicks would be a better host of For The Love Of Dogs.”
Whether or not that happens, one thing is clear: Pete’s love for dogs – and the people working tirelessly to care for them – is 100% genuine.
