BBC viewers have said they "can't cope" after watching the latest episode of Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, which marked the final appearance of Ted the dog. Fans said the beloved series will not be the same without him.
Ninth Series Premiere
The ninth series of the show returned over the weekend, with the first episode airing on Sunday (October 25). All episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
In the premiere, comedians Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse walk along the River Ribble, which runs through the Yorkshire Dales into Lancashire before meeting the Irish Sea in Lytham. The pair hope to catch chub or barbel, with Bob bringing a slow cooker to make a Lancashire hotpot.
Tribute to Ted
The episode featured the final appearance of Ted, a Patterdale Terrier mix who had become a popular part of the show after being rescued in 2013 by Lisa Clark, one of the producers. It was reported earlier this year that Ted had died.
Promoting the new series, Bob told The One Show: "He was amazing wasn't he? He was so disinterested in us. And so he's only in one show this new series." Paul added: "The first episode is our farewell to Ted and yeah he's extraordinary. We'll really miss him."
Fan Reactions
Fans took to social media to share their reactions. One posted: "Oh Ted that episode did make me cry. You were so sprightly in it. Run free and enjoy the rivers." Another wrote: "Can't cope. The first bar of The Divine Comedy and I was a puddle. My terrier was bewildered by a sudden attack of the cuddles."
One viewer said: "Love Gone Fishing. Most beautiful show on TV. But the loss of Ted has really done me in." Another commented: "The last time we saw Ted Gone Fishing Paul and Bob are great but it won't be the same without Ted."
The episode ended with a title card in tribute to Ted. One fan shared: "Oh Ted, it just won't be the same without you. Always the star of the show." Another added: "Gutted. He was the real star of the show. Hope Ted is having many a happy adventure trying to find his briefcase over the rainbow bridge."
Christmas Special Confirmed
Despite the sadness, some viewers celebrated the series. One person said: "Possibly the best show on TV, sheer brilliance!! RIP Ted. Played a blinder!"
It has been confirmed that fans can look forward to a "proper send off" for Ted during the Christmas episode, set to broadcast in December. Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing is streaming on BBC iPlayer.
