Acclaimed actor Sean Bean, renowned for his roles in Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, is embarking on a new venture as the host of the award-winning birdwatching podcast Get Birding. The inaugural episode is scheduled for release this Thursday, marking a significant shift for the series previously helmed by Mya-Rose Craig, who will now return in a mentoring role for Bean.
A Lifelong Passion for Nature
Bean has revealed that birdwatching is a deeply personal hobby, tracing back to his teenage years growing up on a Sheffield estate. He described spending countless hours observing birds in gardens and surrounding fields with friends, a practice he views as a vital connection to nature and a source of relaxation in today's busy world. "I am excited to pick up my binoculars and go on this adventure with the Get Birding community – from seasoned birders, to those wanting to give it a try," Bean stated, emphasising the podcast's mission to make birdwatching accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience.
Celebrity Guests and Personal Stories
Listeners can anticipate hearing Bean recount his own birding adventures alongside those of high-profile guests. The first episode will feature Elbow frontman and BBC Radio 6 Music DJ Guy Garvey, setting the tone for a series that blends celebrity insights with natural wonder. The podcast aims to demystify birdwatching, fostering a greater appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors through engaging narratives and expert guidance.
Mentorship and Continued Involvement
Mya-Rose Craig, the former host, will transition into a mentorship position, offering her expertise to Bean as he navigates his new role. This collaboration ensures continuity and depth for the podcast, which has garnered acclaim for its informative and entertaining content. New episodes will be released fortnightly, supplemented by additional material on the accompanying YouTube channel, @GetBirdingUK, providing a multi-platform experience for enthusiasts.
Recent Projects and Personal Advocacy
At 66, Bean remains active in the entertainment industry, recently starring alongside Daniel Day-Lewis in Anemone, marking Day-Lewis's return to the screen after an eight-year hiatus. Bean humorously noted that during pre-filming days in Ireland, Day-Lewis might have been attempting to mimic his Yorkshire accent, showcasing the camaraderie between the two actors.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Bean has been vocal about local environmental issues. He recently supported a campaign to protect green belt land in the Handsworth area of Sheffield, where he played as a child. Proposed housing developments there, part of the city council's draft local plan, have sparked opposition, with Bean praising the efforts of the Save S13 Greenbelt – The Sapphire McCarthy Campaign. "We're not going to stop. We'll see this through," he affirmed, highlighting his commitment to preserving natural spaces.
With a career spanning iconic films like Goldeneye and television series such as Sharpe, Bean's foray into podcasting represents a heartfelt extension of his personal interests. His involvement in Get Birding promises to inspire both long-time birdwatchers and newcomers alike, blending celebrity appeal with a genuine passion for the natural world.
