Bill Oddie, a British comedian and conservationist known for hosting wildlife programs such as the BBC’s “Springwatch,” has died. He was 85 years old.
Oddie’s agent, David Foster, confirmed his death in a statement to BBC News on Monday, calling him “this country’s most beloved birdwatcher”.
“Bill was a multi-talented celebrity, including a wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, author, songwriter, musician and conservationist. But it was never fame that mattered to him. Instead, he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment. He taught us about the wonders of our environment. He led the way, and people of all ages and backgrounds answered his call. He will never be forgotten.”
Oddie began his career in the television comedy series The Goodies, which ran from 1970 to 1982, alongside fellow Cambridge University classmates Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graham Garden. He then shifted to being a presenter and focused on his love of wildlife, especially birds. He hosted a number of successful nature shows on the BBC from the mid-80s until 2008, including ‘Birding With Bill Oddie’, ‘Bill Oddie Goes Wild’, ‘Springwatch’ and ‘Autumnwatch’.
Born on July 7, 1941 in Rochdale, Lancashire, England, Oddie moved to Birmingham at an early age and was raised by his father and grandmother. He studied English literature at Cambridge University, where he developed an interest in comedy and appeared in several productions of the sketch comedy collective Footlights.
In the late 60s, he began his foray into show business as a key member of the BBC radio program Sorry, I’ll Read Again, where some of his songs were featured. After writing and starring in comedy series such as “Twice a Fortnight” and “Broaden Your Mind,” Oddie got his big break with “The Goodies,” known for his surreal skits and sitcoms. In addition to writing and starring in the series, Oddie wrote all the music, including co-writing the show’s theme song.
In the mid-’80s, Oddie’s lifelong passion for birdwatching led to a growing interest in wildlife. This began the second phase of his career, which included “Oddie in Paradise” (1985), “Birding with Bill Oddie” (1997-1998, 2000), “Bill Oddie Goes Wild” (2001-2003), and “Bill Oddie’s Wildlife Observation Method” (2005-2006). (2011), and became a popular nature presenter known for shows such as “Springwatch.” ” (2005-2008), “Autumn Watch” (2006-2008), “Bill Oddie’s Wild Side” (2008), etc.
In 2003, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his services to wildlife conservation.
Odie is survived by his wife Laura and daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie.
