Fans were left stunned last night as Pete Wicks, once known as TOWIE’s rebellious bad boy, was officially unveiled as the new face of a primetime TV show — with insiders branding him the “worthy successor” to the late Paul O’Grady. But while some are cheering his rise from reality chaos to national treasure, others are asking the question nobody saw coming: is Pete really ready to step into such legendary shoes? The announcement, made during a glitzy ITV event on October 22, 2025, revealed that Wicks, 37, has been recommissioned for two additional series of his hit show Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake on U&W, plus a festive Christmas special. This move cements his role in the dog rescue genre, drawing inevitable comparisons to O’Grady’s iconic For the Love of Dogs, which ran for 11 seasons and became a staple of British television.

The revelation sent shockwaves through social media, with #PeteWicksSuccessor trending overnight on X (formerly Twitter). One fan posted, “Pete Wicks stepping into Paul O’Grady’s shoes? Didn’t see that coming, but he’s got the heart for it!” Another quipped, “From TOWIE drama to dog whisperer—Pete’s redemption arc is TV gold.” Yet, not all reactions were glowing; skeptics questioned whether the tattooed Essex lad, famous for his playboy antics, could truly embody the warmth and authenticity that made O’Grady a beloved figure. As one X user pondered, “Love Pete, but Paul was one of a kind. Is this the right fit?” This duality of excitement and doubt has ignited debates across forums, pubs, and living rooms, turning what could have been a straightforward casting news into a cultural conversation about reinvention, legacy, and the evolving face of British TV.

From Essex Bad Boy to Canine Crusader: Pete Wicks’ Unlikely Journey

Pete Wicks burst onto the scene in 2015 as a cast member on The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), the glossy reality show that chronicled the lives, loves, and dramas of a group of glamorous Essex residents. With his long hair, intricate tattoos, and a reputation for being a heartbreaker, Wicks quickly became the show’s resident “bad boy.” His on-again, off-again romance with co-star Megan McKenna was pure tabloid fodder—filled with explosive arguments, public makeups, and breakups that kept viewers hooked. “I was the villain in my own story back then,” Wicks admitted in a 2024 podcast episode of Staying Relevant, co-hosted with best mate Sam Thompson. “Reality TV chews you up and spits you out if you’re not careful.”

But beneath the bravado was a man grappling with personal demons. Wicks has been candid about his struggles with mental health, including a 2017 suicide attempt that he revealed in his memoir Never Enough: My Words Unfiltered (2023). The book detailed his battles with anxiety, the pressure of fame, and the loss of his grandmother, who raised him after his parents’ split. “Tattoos were my armor,” he wrote, referring to the inked sleeves that cover stories of heartbreak and resilience. His vulnerability resonated, shifting public perception from party boy to relatable survivor.

Wicks’ pivot to mainstream appeal accelerated in 2024 when he joined Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with professional Jowita Przystal. Despite early elimination rumors, his gritty determination and chemistry with Przystal won over audiences. “Pete’s got that raw edge—tattoos, tears, and tango,” gushed judge Craig Revel Horwood. Post-Strictly, Wicks capitalized on his momentum, appearing on Loose Women and launching a dog-focused podcast, Pete Wicks: Straight to the Comments, where he discusses animal welfare with celebrity guests. His love for dogs isn’t new; Wicks has owned French Bulldogs Eric and Peggy, often sharing their antics on Instagram to his 1.5 million followers. “Dogs saved me,” he’s said. “They don’t judge; they just love.”

This passion led to For Dogs’ Sake, which premiered in April 2025. Filmed at Dogs Trust’s Basildon rehoming center, the series follows Wicks as he helps rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome abandoned dogs. The first season’s four episodes drew 1.2 million viewers per episode, a solid hit for U&W. Insiders credit Wicks’ authenticity: “He’s not acting; he’s all in,” a production source told The Sun. The recommission for series two and three, plus the Christmas special, was announced amid soaring ratings, with U&W bosses hailing it as “the perfect blend of heart and humor.”

Paul O’Grady: The Irreplaceable Icon and His Enduring Legacy

To understand the weight of Wicks’ new role, one must revisit Paul O’Grady’s extraordinary legacy. Born in Birkenhead in 1955, O’Grady rose from working-class roots to become a national treasure. As drag queen Lily Savage in the 1980s and ’90s, he skewered societal norms with razor-sharp wit on shows like The Big Breakfast. But it was his transition to heartfelt presenter that solidified his status. For the Love of Dogs, launching in 2012 on ITV, followed O’Grady at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where he championed strays with unfiltered empathy. “These dogs have been through hell, and they deserve heaven,” he’d say, often tearing up as he cuddled pups or blasted irresponsible owners.

The show wasn’t just entertainment; it was activism. Viewership peaked at 5 million, boosting adoptions by 700% at Battersea in its first year. O’Grady’s genuine bond—rooted in his own farm life with rescue animals—made every episode feel personal. He won multiple National Television Awards, but his impact transcended accolades. When he died suddenly in March 2023 at age 67 from cardiac arrhythmia, tributes poured in from royalty to rescue workers. Queen Camilla, a fellow animal advocate, called him “irreplaceable.” ITV’s attempt to revive the show with Alison Hammond in 2024 met mixed reviews; while Hammond brought energy, critics noted a lack of the same raw connection. “Paul had that Scouse soul,” one viewer lamented on X. “It’s hard to follow a legend.”

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The late Paul O’Grady on ‘For the Love of Dogs’, a role that defined his later career and inspired millions.

O’Grady’s format—mixing humor, heartbreak, and happy endings—set the blueprint for animal welfare TV. His no-nonsense approach, like calling out breeders or pleading for adoptions, raised awareness on issues like puppy farms and abandonment. Post-pandemic, with pet surrenders surging, his absence left a void. Enter Wicks, whose show echoes the formula but adds a modern twist: his tattooed, ex-reality star persona appeals to younger demographics. “Pete’s like Paul 2.0—edgy but empathetic,” says TV critic Christopher Stevens in his Daily Mail review.

The Big Reveal: Shock, Awe, and Industry Buzz

Last night’s unveiling at London’s Soho House was a star-studded affair, attended by TOWIE alumni like Joey Essex and Strictly host Tess Daly. Wicks, dressed in a sharp black suit that barely contained his ink, took the stage with a rescue pup in tow. “This isn’t just a gig; it’s my calling,” he declared, choking up as he dedicated the recommission to O’Grady. “Paul was a hero. If I can honor that, I’m all in.” U&W executives announced the expansion amid cheers, citing the first series’ success in driving 20% more inquiries to Dogs Trust.

Insiders are ecstatic. “Pete’s the worthy successor—tough exterior, soft heart,” a source told Entertainment Daily. “He’s reinventing himself like Paul did at Battersea.” The Christmas special, set to air December 2025, will feature holiday-themed rescues, celebrity cameos (rumored: Perrie Edwards and Sam Thompson), and a focus on winter abandonment. Series two and three promise deeper dives: international rescues, vet surgeries, and Wicks fostering dogs himself. “It’s raw, real, and rewarding,” Wicks teased in a post-event interview.

But the buzz isn’t universal. Some question if Wicks’ reality roots undermine the show’s sincerity. “Paul was authentic; Pete’s polished for cameras,” argued a Reddit thread. Others defend him: “Give the guy a chance—he’s walked the walk with his own rescues.”

Inside the Show: Heartwarming Tales and Tear-Jerking Moments

For Dogs’ Sake thrives on emotional storytelling. In the first series, Wicks met Mel, a senior Staffie abandoned after her owner’s death. “She’s got eyes that break your heart,” he said, helping her find a forever home. Another highlight: four Maltese crosses rescued from a suitcase, their fur matted like dreadlocks. Wicks assisted in their grooming, quipping, “They look like rockstars now!” Episode two featured Ricky, a pointer who only responded to high-pitched calls—leading to hilarious scenes of Wicks screeching like a banshee.

The second series ramps up the drama. Previews show Wicks bonding with Theo, a mastiff with a heart defect, organizing a community appeal. “If we don’t find him a home, it’s on us,” he urges. Critics praise his hands-on style: Stevens notes, “Just like Paul, it’s love at first slobber.” The show tackles tough issues—post-COVID surrenders, breed-specific legislation—while celebrating successes, like a blind puppy learning to navigate with a sibling guide.

Wicks’ personal touch shines. He’s adopted two rescues himself and donates proceeds from his book to Dogs Trust. “These dogs aren’t props; they’re family,” he insists.

Fan Frenzy: Cheers, Jeers, and the Great Debate

Social media erupted post-announcement. On X, supporters flooded timelines: “Pete Wicks is the new Paul O’Grady—brilliant with dogs!” A poll by Entertainment Daily showed 87% favoring Wicks over Hammond for For the Love of Dogs. “He’s got the fire Paul had,” one user wrote.

Detractors, however, voice concerns. “Pete’s great, but Paul’s shoes are too big,” posted another. Some cite his TOWIE past: “From cheating scandals to canine savior? Skeptical.” Yet, even critics admit his passion is undeniable. A GB News survey found 65% believe he’s ready, with many citing his emotional on-screen moments.

Celebrity endorsements pour in. Thompson tweeted, “My boy’s killing it—Paul would approve!” Edwards added, “Pete’s heart is huge; dogs sense that.”

Insider Insights: Challenges and Triumphs Ahead

Behind the scenes, challenges loom. ITV’s For the Love of Dogs under Hammond has faced backlash, with viewership dipping 15% from O’Grady’s era. Sources whisper U&W’s success could pressure ITV to poach Wicks. “It’s a rivalry now,” an insider says. Wicks remains humble: “I’m not replacing Paul; I’m carrying the torch.”

Future episodes may include crossovers, like Battersea visits, bridging legacies. Wicks plans advocacy campaigns, partnering with RSPCA for anti-abandonment drives.

Ready or Not? The Verdict on Pete’s Big Leap

As the dust settles, one thing’s clear: Pete Wicks’ ascent from TOWIE rebel to dog rescue darling is a masterclass in reinvention. Whether he’s fully ready for O’Grady’s mantle remains debated, but his authenticity and zeal suggest yes. “Paul showed us love changes lives,” Wicks reflects. “I’m here to keep that going.” With fans divided yet captivated, For Dogs’ Sake isn’t just TV—it’s a testament to second chances, for dogs and presenters alike. Tune in; the journey’s just beginning.

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Pete Wicks kneeling with a rescue dog, capturing the heartfelt moments that draw comparisons to O’Grady.

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