Bill Oddie, naturalist and broadcaster, dies aged 85

The Guardian Culture Monday 27 July 2026, 09:16 UTC By Hannah J Davies 1 min read

Key Points

Coming to fame in The Goodies, Oddie was later known for his wildlife expertise and presented BBC SpringwatchThe writer, comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie has died aged 85. Having come to prominence with the comedy group The Goodies, Oddie later established himself as an authority on wildlife, presenting television series including the BBC’s Springwatch and Autumnwatch. Oddie’s agent paid tribute to his “intelligence and wit”.

Coming to fame in The Goodies, Oddie was later known for his wildlife expertise and presented BBC Springwatch

The writer, comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie has died aged 85. Having come to prominence with the comedy group The Goodies, Oddie later established himself as an authority on wildlife, presenting television series including the BBC’s Springwatch and Autumnwatch.

Oddie’s agent paid tribute to his “intelligence and wit”. 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. Bill was a multitalented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued.

Bill Oddie (PERSON) Goodies (ORG) Oddie (PERSON) Springwatch and Autumnwatch (ORG) David Foster (PERSON) Bill (PERSON)

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Bill Oddie, naturalist and broadcaster, dies aged 85

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