Amanda Holden has suggested that actress Caroline Quentin could be the perfect replacement for Monty Don on Gardeners' World, following his announcement that he is stepping away from the BBC show after 23 years.
During a discussion on Heart Radio Breakfast, Amanda's co-host Jamie Theakston noted that whoever takes over from Monty has "big shoes to fill". Amanda then put forward Caroline Quentin, who is both an actress and a keen gardener.
Amanda's endorsement of Caroline Quentin
Amanda revealed: "People might not know this, she's fascinating, she's funny, she's an actress, she knows a lot about gardening and growing things." She added that she has known Caroline for years and follows her on Instagram, describing her as "an amazing artist" who paints flowers and vegetables.
"She might not know as much as Monty, maybe, technically, but she has a wealth of knowledge so it might be worth looking at her," Amanda added. Jamie said Monty would be missed, joking that he had "big hands", to which Amanda responded: "Oh yeah, Caroline's got big hands, she'll be alright," prompting laughter and a remark that Caroline would "hate" her for the comment.
Monty Don's departure announcement
Monty Don, 71, announced his exit in an Instagram video, telling fans he had "loved every minute" of being part of the show, which is filmed from his Longmeadow garden. He said it was "time for a change" and that there were "new adventures in the future", while confirming he would continue working with the BBC on other projects.
He added: "There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow." Since the announcement, he has already revealed a new role as the face of New Balance shoes.
Reaction and potential successors
Kate Phillips, BBC's Chief Content Officer, said in a statement: "Monty's decision to leave Gardeners World is one I respect, but I'm still very sad he's leaving." She described him as "utterly unique" and said he would be "hugely" missed by the team.
The BBC has not yet named an official replacement. Co-presenters considered strong frontrunners include Adam Frost, Frances Tophill, Jamie Butterworth, Joe Swift and Arit Anderson. Frances Tophill, however, has said she does not see herself becoming a regular on-screen face, telling The Sunday Times: "Broadcasting is not my day job, my day job is being a gardener."
Monty will continue to broadcast from Longmeadow until later this year.
