BBC wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie dies aged 85

Wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie has died aged 85.

His agent has confirmed that he died on Saturday.

In a statement, David Foster announced: ‘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.’

Foster praised Oddie for how he ‘led the way’ and noted that ‘people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call’, signifying a ‘massive contribution to conservation that 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,’ he added affectionately.

‘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.’

A cause of death was not revealed.

Oddie first found fame in the 70s as a member of comedy trio The Goodies alongside Graeme Garden, 83, and Tim Brooke-Taylor (who died in 2020).

The Lancashire-born star, who began birdwatching in his childhood when he lived in Birmingham, went on to make a name for himself as an established and respected naturalist and conservationist.

A voice on wildlife matters, he appeared on numerous BBC programmes, hosting the likes of Springwatch, Autumnwatch, Birding With Bill Oddie, and Bill Oddie Goes Wild.

His shows were a phenomenon, as Britain Goes Wild, later renamed Springwatch, attracted four million viewers.

Oddie also released books, with some containing his own paintings and drawings, and wrote original music.