This Morning paid a touching tribute to wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie following his death at the age of 85. The TV star, who rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of comic trio The Goodies alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, died on Saturday (July 25). He later hosted wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
Announcement and Tributes
During the segment Morning Views, presenter Dermot O'Leary said: "Bill Oddie has passed away. Naturalist, broadcaster, comedian, died at 85, his agent revealed this morning." Dermot then passed to guest Gyles Brandreth, who said: "I certainly knew Bill Oddie and I, of course, loved The Goodies."
Gyles spoke fondly about the show and added: "The great thing for Bill Oddie is that he had a second public life, his passion - he had several passions - but one of them was art, he was a great painter. But also nature, he loved the outdoor world, he was a proper birder." He ended his tribute by calling Bill "a good guy."
Presenter Alison Hammond then said: "What a lovely way to remember him. Our thoughts are with his wife and his daughters. Thank you so much."
Viewer and Agent Reactions
Viewers shared condolences on X, formerly Twitter. One wrote: "RIP Bill. Thanks for the memories. I will always remember the Funky Gibbon." Another said: "Sorry to hear that comic and ornithologist, Bill Oddie has died."
On Monday (July 27), a statement from his friend and agent, David Foster, was released. It read: "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."
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1.
