New Birdwatching TV Show 'Sam & Ade Go Birding' Launches with Star Duo
Channel 5 is set to premiere a heartwarming new television series titled 'Sam & Ade Go Birding', featuring acclaimed actors Samuel West and Adrian Edmonson. The show, which draws direct comparisons to the beloved series Gone Fishing, follows the pair as they embark on birdwatching adventures across Britain, blending wildlife exploration with candid conversations.
From Scripts to Binoculars: A Celebrity Shift
In a notable departure from their acting careers, Samuel West and Adrian Edmonson will front this three-episode series. Edmonson, 69, best known for his punk role in The Young Ones, trades comedy for quiet bird spotting, while West, a star of Channel 5's drama All Creatures Great and Small, brings his passion for nature to the screen. The programme aims to replicate the success of Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, focusing on friendship and the simple joys of birdwatching.
Adventures Across Britain's Landscapes
The series takes viewers on three weekend journeys to iconic British locations:
- West Cornwall: Searching for Cornish Choughs, waders, and transatlantic birds blown off course.
- North Norfolk: On a wild goose chase for Brent and Pink-footed geese.
- Somerset Levels: Staking out Kingfishers, Egrets, and the elusive Bittern.
Each episode features exquisite photography and breathtaking landscapes, highlighting Britain's diverse birdlife and scenic beauty.
Celebrity Insights and Heartfelt Moments
Samuel West expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'Watching birds is a simple pleasure. At heart, it's an invitation to connect with the natural world. All you need is a desire to look, listen, and enjoy.' He praised Edmonson's companionship, adding that sharing the experience with a friend enhances the joy.
Adrian Edmonson humorously remarked, 'I don't know how I got to be this old without knowing more about birds. It feels like a huge hole in my education. Sam is going to fill me in. And...we get to go to the pub!' This reflects the show's lighthearted tone, which includes pub visits and relaxed chats.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Praise
The series, produced by Frank Films and set to air in late 2026, has garnered praise from industry figures. Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB, commended West's passion, saying, 'His passion for birds shines through every scene, and together with Ade's humour, their camaraderie captures the zeitgeist.' She noted that the show could inspire more people to discover birdwatching.
Kit Morey, Commissioning Editor at Channel 5, described the series as 'one of the most heartwarming pieces of televisual joy,' emphasizing its themes of friendship and simplicity. He added that it offers a calm and uplifting escape in today's overwhelming world.
A Blend of Wildlife and Friendship
Similar to Gone Fishing, the show intersperses bird sightings with thoughtful discussions on topics like aging, acting, childhood memories, and personal hobbies. It visits RSPB and local wildlife trust reserves, promoting conservation awareness. The programme is not just about birds but also celebrates the beautiful friendship between West and Edmonson, reminding viewers of life's simple pleasures.
