HEARTBREAKING: BBC wildlife legend d!es asTributes have poured in from devastated fans
Tributes have poured in from devastated fans
Bill Oddie has sadly d!ed (Image: Getty)
Legendary wildlife presenter Bill Oddie has d!ed at the age of 85. His agent David Foster announced the news, and said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country’s best-loved birder. Bill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued.
“Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment. He taught us the wonder of it. He protested, lobbied and campaigned for it. He led the way and people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call. And such a massive contribution to conservation will never be forgotten.
“As Bill’s agent I witnessed close hand his intelligence and wit. He was my friend and it was an honour and a privilege to represent him for so many years. I will miss him terribly.
“My thoughts and love are with Bill’s wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have asked not to be contacted at this sad time. Please respect their wishes.”
Bill started out his career in comedy trio The Good!es, but became better known for his wildlife programmes over the years – including Birding with Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie’s How to Watch Wildlife, Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Wild in Your Garden.
He was made an OBE in 2003 for services to wildlife conservation, and was a recipient of the RSPB Medal.
Tributes flooded in for the wildlife presenter
Tributes have flooded in from fans online, with one writing on X: “RIP birdman… thanks for The Good!es.”
Another echoed: “RIP Bill Oddie. His comedy was good, his bird watching was better.”
A third said: “Very sad, growing up we had a VHS tape with all sorts of children’s specials on it. Bill Oddie meeting Ed the Duck was one of them and still has me in fits of laughter now. His comic timing was superb.”
And another fan posted: “RIP Bill Oddie. A little piece of childhood passed away.”
