TV presenter and comedian Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent has said. Oddie became a household name in the 1970s as part of the zany TV comedy trio The Goodies, before concentrating on his love of wildlife as one of the original hosts of BBC TV's Springwatch and other shows about birdwatching.
What did his agent say?
In a statement, David Foster said:
"It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country's best-loved birder.
Foster added that Oddie was a multi-talented celebrity whose work spanned wildlife presenting, broadcasting, comedy, writing, songwriting, music and conservation. He said Oddie did not value fame, but instead encouraged people to respect and protect the environment.
Foster continued:
"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."
How was Oddie remembered?
Foster said Oddie taught people "the wonder" of nature and was active in campaigning for conservation. He said Oddie protested, lobbied and campaigned for the environment, and that people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call.
Foster said Oddie's contribution to conservation would not be forgotten. He also said he had witnessed Oddie's intelligence and wit at close hand over many years as his agent and friend.
Foster continued:
"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."
Key Facts
- Bill Oddie died at the age of 85.
- He became known in the 1970s as part of The Goodies.
- He later became one of the original hosts of BBC TV's Springwatch.
- His agent, David Foster, said Oddie was a conservationist and campaigner.
- Foster said Oddie's wife, Laura, and daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie have asked not to be contacted.
