SAD NEWS: Monty Don announces Gardeners’ World exit after 20 years in emotional statement
The 71-year-old horticulturist has hosted the BBC show since 2003.
Monty Don has announced he is leaving Gardeners’ World after 23 years at the helm (Image: BBC Studios)
Monty Don has announced that he is leaving Gardeners’ World after 23 years on the BBC show. On Tuesday morning (September 8), the 71-year-old broadcaster was seen sitting on a bench in his garden and shared the devastating news on social media with the support of his furry friend, Ned. Taking to Instagram, the dad-of-three began: “I have a big piece of news to share with you because I’ve decided that this is to be my last series of Gardeners’ World.
“I began hosting Gardeners’ World 23 years ago, and for the last 16 years we’ve been here at Longmeadow, and it’s been fantastic. I’ve loved every minute, I’ve worked with some amazing people, and it’s been a joy to share my gardening life and my dogs with you.
“But it’s time for a change, and no doubt some new adventures in the future, but for the moment, this is the end of a chapter,” he concluded. The BBC confirmed the news in a statement, which said: “Since joining the programme in 2003, Monty has inspired and guided millions of viewers with his warmth, wisdom and passion for gardening.
“In 2011, he welcomed audiences weekly into his own garden, Longmeadow in Herefordshire, sharing the joys and challenges of life in the garden, and practical gardening through the seasons, always with his much-loved dogs following close behind.”
Kate Phillips, BBC’s Chief Content Officer added: “Monty’s decision to leave Gardeners’ World is one I respect, but I’m still very sad he’s leaving. Monty is utterly unique, a wonderfully engaging broadcaster with a soothing, calm presence who has inspired so many with his passion for gardening.
“We are a nation full of budding gardeners, and his tips and advice have been invaluable to viewers for more than 20 years and have certainly helped me increase my knowledge as well as my plant survival rate. I would like to thank Monty personally for his honesty and kindness, which have seen him open up about his own personal struggles and the power of the natural world to improve mental health.”
She went on: “We will miss him on the show hugely. Monty will be presenting BBC Gardeners’ World from his beautiful LongMeadow gardens until the end of the year, and I look forward to working with him on the BBC on future projects.”
It didn’t take long for fans to flock to the comments section to share their devastation at the news online. One user wept: “No, I’m gutted!! Will miss you, Longmeadow and Ned so much from the show [crying emoji]. Thanks for everything you’ve shared and for letting viewers into your home. Good luck with the new adventures. GW won’t be the same.”
Another gushed: “I am not emotionally prepared for this news [crying emoji]” as a third echoed: “I knew this day would come but nooooooo!!! [crying emoji]. It’s hard to find the words to describe how you’ve influenced and inspired my gardening. Thank you. Please keep writing books for us.”
Meanwhile, broadcaster Kate Thornton chimed in with: “Nooooo! This is a horticultural tragedy. Thank you for sharing so much passion, knowledge and wisdom. You will be hugely missed [heart emoji].” Another penned: “This makes me so sad for us and so happy for you. You are an inspiration for so many of us. Onwards, and thank you.”
Audiences will still be able to see Monty broadcast from Longmeadow until later this year.
