Bill Oddie Dies Aged 85: BBC Springwatch Presenter and The Goodies Star Passes Away

British comedian, wildlife broadcaster and conservationist Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent has confirmed. Best known for his role in the iconic comedy trio The Goodies and later as a beloved presenter of BBC wildlife programmes including Springwatch and Autumnwatch, Oddie leaves behind a lasting legacy in both entertainment and nature conservation.

Bill Oddie Dies at 85

Oddie died on Saturday, with the news announced on Monday (27 July 2026) by his longtime friend and agent David Foster.

In a statement, Foster described Oddie as Britain's "best-loved birder" and praised his remarkable career as a wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. He said Oddie's greatest achievement was inspiring generations of people to appreciate and protect the natural world.

From The Goodies to Springwatch

Born in Rochdale, Lancashire, Bill Oddie grew up in Birmingham before studying at the University of Cambridge, where he met Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden.

The trio went on to create The Goodies, one of Britain's most successful comedy shows. The programme aired from 1970 to 1980, later returning for a Christmas special in 1981 and another series in 1982.

After his comedy success, Oddie became one of the UK's best-known wildlife broadcasters, presenting popular BBC programmes including:

• Birding With Bill Oddie

• Bill Oddie Goes Wild

• Springwatch

• Autumnwatch

His enthusiasm for birdwatching and conservation helped introduce wildlife to millions of viewers across the UK.

Champion of Wildlife Conservation

Away from television, Oddie wrote numerous books on birds and conservation and supported several environmental organisations throughout his career.

His agent said Oddie's contribution to wildlife conservation would "never be forgotten," highlighting his years of campaigning to protect Britain's natural environment.

Mental Health Advocacy

Bill Oddie was also widely respected for speaking openly about his mental health.

He lived with depression and bipolar disorder and publicly discussed his experiences in the hope of reducing stigma. In 2020, he revealed that he had suffered a serious case of lithium toxicity, describing it as "almost fatal" before making a gradual recovery.

Family

Bill Oddie is survived by:

• His wife, Laura

• His daughters Rosie, Kate and Bonnie

His family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.

Tributes

Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from across the broadcasting and conservation communities.

Many remembered Oddie not only for his comedy with The Goodies, but also for inspiring generations of birdwatchers and encouraging people to reconnect with nature through television, books and conservation campaigns.

Legacy

Bill Oddie enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades, successfully moving from comedy into wildlife broadcasting.

Whether entertaining audiences with The Goodies or encouraging viewers to appreciate birds and the natural world through Springwatch, Oddie became one of Britain's most recognisable television personalities. His influence on wildlife conservation and British television will continue to be remembered for years to come.