Comedian Bob Mortimer has delivered a poignant and heartfelt update concerning the health of his beloved dog, Ted, a cherished regular on the BBC's hit programme Gone Fishing.
A Beloved Companion's Ageing Process
During an appearance on Saturday Kitchen on 29 November, the conversation turned to his canine co-star. When host Matt Tebbutt inquired about Ted's wellbeing, Mortimer initially responded with a humorous impression of the dog before revealing the more sombre reality.
"No, he's knocking on a bit," Mortimer admitted, confirming that Ted is now 15 years old. He was quick to add that the dog's spirit remains undimmed, stating, "He still loves coming out with us, and he seems very happy."
The situation became more emotional when Matt Tebbutt mentioned his sadness at seeing Ted being wheeled around. Bob clarified the circumstances, explaining, "He doesn't have to be wheeled around all the time, but for longer journeys, up the river bank, we put him in a pram now."
Reflecting on the Show and Personal Health
Looking ahead, Mortimer teased the final episode of the current series, the eighth to air since the show began in 2018, calling it "a beauty." He expressed a sense of grateful bewilderment at the programme's enduring popularity alongside his co-host Paul Whitehouse.
"It's odd that people like it so much, but I kind of get it," he said. "We make the UK look really pretty - it's nice to be reminded occasionally."
This update on Ted comes against the backdrop of Mortimer's own significant health challenges. The 66-year-old underwent a triple heart bypass surgery in 2015 after discovering a shocking 95% of his arteries were blocked. A doctor had warned he would have suffered a heart attack on stage, forcing him to cancel tour dates.
Despite this life-altering scare, Mortimer confessed to The Daily Mail that he consciously ignores medical advice regarding his diet, particularly his love for cheese. After being told he could only have a matchbox-sized piece weekly, he stated, "That broke my heart... I'm probably in the school of thought that I'd rather have three years less."
Previous Health Struggles and Recovery
Last year, the comedian faced another setback, battling a severe case of shingles that left him unable to walk. He revealed he had to use a wheelchair during the filming of Gone Fishing and relied heavily on Paul Whitehouse for support.
"I wasn't very well and it made it a bit of a struggle but, as always, Paul looked after me and pulled me through," Mortimer shared. He has since been focused on recovery, working to "grow muscle back" and regaining the use of his leg, though he admits he remains "a bit limpy."
The enduring partnership between Mortimer and Whitehouse, both on and off screen, continues to resonate with audiences, making updates on their lives, and that of their four-legged friend, deeply touching for fans across the UK.
