Legendary wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie dies aged 85
Legendary wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent said.
The star, who shot to fame in the 1970s before becoming a beloved regular fixture on our TV screens, died on Saturday (25 July).
Oddie became a household name as a member of comic trio The Goodies, alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, before branching out solo.
He went on to host wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
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Oddie's longtime pal and agent David Foster announced the news with 'deep sadness' on Monday (27 July) morning.
Describing the Rochdale-born star as the 'country’s best-loved birder', Foster said he will 'miss him terribly'.
The statement announcing the animal lover's passing said: "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.
“My thoughts and love are with Bill’s wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have asked not to be contacted at this sad time. Please respect their wishes.”
Oddie's 'almost fatal' health battle in 2020
In 2020, the Oddie revealed he had been suffering from lithium toxicity, which he said was 'almost fatal'.
In a post on X, the avid birdwatcher said at the time: "Just so you know, I have been very ill most of this summer. Lithium toxicity. Almost fatal!
"I am still here but very confused about most things! But then aren't many of us. It fuddles my brain. Confusion. Will I return? I Really dunno. I do hope so. Please wish me luck."
Lithium is commonly prescribed to people who have bipolar disorder and Oddie had previously opened up about his experience with the mental health condition.
In 2010, he discussed how he endured the 'worst 12 months of his life' due to bipolar and depression.
He told the London newspaper Ham & High, as per the BBC: "The last year was probably the worst 12 months of my life because I suffered from bipolar and terrible depression which began in January and February.
"This has put pressure on my whole family - especially my wife - and I am just glad I managed to come out of it in time to enjoy Christmas."
Oddie also told The Guardian that he 'inherited the same genetic flaw' as his mother, who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but he also suspected she might have had bipolar disorder.
"When it was suggested to me that she might have been bipolar, a million bells rang in my head because I was heading the same way," he told the publication in 2015.
Olivia Burke