Television presenter Paul O'Grady is in hospital after suffering an angina attack, a friend has said.
The 58-year-old comedian, who has had two heart attacks previously, told radio DJ Pete Price he was undergoing surgery today.
In a text message sent to Mr Price yesterday, he said: "I have had an angina attack and I will need a few days' rest.
"I am going to be out of the game for quite a while, and am going in for surgery tomorrow."
Mr Price told the Liverpool Echo that O'Grady had been overworking.
He said: "I just love him to bits, and he has been overdoing it.
"He has just come back from Africa doing some work for a new TV show next year, and then there are all his animals and all the other things he does.
"When I saw he wasn't on TV I texted to ask what had happened and he told me about it. He is a total workaholic, and I have told him he needs to take things easy."
Paul's ITV early evening chat show was instead hosted by singer Michael Ball yesterday.
A message on the show's Twitter feed read: "Sadly Paul's feeling poorly, but join Michael Ball and guests tonight, it'll be a hoot!"
Presenter Stephen Mulhern said he had been brought in to front today's show, tweeting: "Get well soon Paul I will look after the show for you!"
TV stars took to Twitter to wish Paul their best.
Phillip Schofield said: "Sending lots of love to Paul O'Grady tonight. Get well soon mate x"
