In a triumphant turn that’s captured the nation’s heart, Pete Wicks has been hailed as the “new Paul O’Grady” following the runaway success of Season 2 of his hit show *Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake* on U&W. The former TOWIE bad boy, once synonymous with reality TV drama and turbulent romances, has undergone a remarkable redemption arc, emerging as Britain’s most beloved dog advocate and earning comparisons to the late, iconic Paul O’Grady that no one – least of all Pete himself – saw coming.

The buzz reached fever pitch this week as viewers and critics alike crowned Pete the spiritual successor to O’Grady’s legendary *For the Love of Dogs*. Social media exploded with declarations like “Pete Wicks IS the new Paul O’Grady – heartfelt, genuine, and utterly devoted to dogs!” and “From TOWIE heartbreaker to dog rescue hero – this redemption story is everything!” Hashtags #NewPaulOGrady and #ForDogsSakeS2 trended nationwide, with fans crediting the 37-year-old for filling the void left by O’Grady’s passing in 2023.

Season 2, which wrapped earlier this month after premiering in October, shattered records for U&W, becoming the channel’s highest-rated unscripted series since 2016. Episodes featured Pete immersing himself deeper than ever at Dogs Trust centres across the UK, from Basildon to Leeds and beyond. Heart-wrenching stories – like Theo, the gentle Italian Mastiff with a serious heart condition, and a suitcase of abandoned puppies – had viewers in floods of tears, while joyful rehoming moments provided pure uplift.

One standout episode saw Pete bond with Flower, a rescue dog who initially disliked him – a rare occurrence for the usually dog-magnet presenter. His patient, emotional journey to win her trust mirrored O’Grady’s empathetic style, prompting Daily Mail reviewer Christopher Stevens to note: “Just like Paul O’Grady, it’s love at first slobber for Pete and his rescue dogs.” Stevens added that the show promises to give Wicks “a TV career long after his reality antics are forgotten.”

The comparisons aren’t new, but Season 2 cemented them. Since the first series aired in January 2025, fans have repeatedly called for Pete to take over ITV’s *For the Love of Dogs*, which transitioned to Alison Hammond in 2024. Forums like Digital Spy buzzed with posts: “Pete is a natural successor to Paul O’Grady – he’s not afraid to show emotions.” Many felt ITV “missed a trick” by not choosing the passionate animal lover, whose genuine tears over a cancer-diagnosed dog in Season 1 left audiences sobbing.

Pete’s transformation from “TOWIE fuckboy” (as some early critics labeled him) to national treasure has been nothing short of miraculous. Known for his tattooed, brooding persona and high-profile splits, Pete credits dogs with saving him during tough times. “Dogs have been central to my life,” he told BBC News. “If I could spend the rest of my days caring for them, I’d die happy.” His own rescues, including the late Peggy (who sadly passed recently) and Eric, feature in his life, underscoring his authenticity.

The impact extends beyond screens. Dogs Trust reported record adoption enquiries and centre footfall during both seasons, with CEO Owen Sharp praising Pete for going “above and beyond.” A recent Christmas special, aired December 8, saw Pete deliver presents to homeless dogs via charity HARP, further solidifying his hero status.

Insiders say commissioners were “blown away” by Season 2’s deeper storytelling and emotional depth. “It’s bigger, better, with more tears and happy endings,” Pete teased pre-launch. The reward? Early renewal for Season 3 in 2026, plus rave reviews at the Broadcast Digital Awards, where Season 1 won Best Popular Factual Programme.

Fans are buzzing for good reason. In a year marked by personal losses – including Peggy’s death and a “heavy” 2025 – Pete’s vulnerability shines. Podcast clips with bestie Sam Thompson reveal his self-doubt, yet on *For Dogs’ Sake*, he’s confident, compassionate, and utterly relatable. “He’s redeemed himself in the best way,” one X user wrote. “From heartbreak hotel to hero of the kennels!”

Critics agree: Pete has reinvented his career, much like O’Grady did with Battersea. While Hammond continues on ITV, Pete’s U&W triumph has carved his own legacy. “Paul would approve,” fans insist.

As 2025 ends, Pete plans a quiet Christmas with Eric, turning down invites to “hibernate.” But with Season 3 looming and calls for more, his star is rising. This redemption? Truly the story no one saw coming – but everyone needed.