Wildlife presenter and Goodies star Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent has said.
The TV star, who found fame in the 1970s as a member of comic trio The Goodies alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, died on Saturday.
The legendary conservationist and birdwatcher suffered an “almost fatal” condition in 2020, revealing he became very ill with “lithium toxicity”.
He was known for hosting wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
A statement from his friend and agent 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 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.”
Bill pictured in 2010PADavid went on: “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.”
From left, The Goodies stars Graeme Garden, Bill and Tim Brooke-Taylor in 1975PAOddie was born in Rochdale, Lancashire, and grew up in Birmingham. He studied at Cambridge University where he met Brooke-Taylor and Garden, with whom he formed the sketch group The Goodies.
They appeared on the slapstick TV show The Goodies for 10 years between 1970 and 1980. The show was revived for a 1981 Christmas special and a six-part series which aired in 1982.
An avid birdwatcher, Oddie later turned to nature presenting on television.
He revealed in 2020 that he had been “very ill” with lithium toxicity.
“Just so you know, I have been very ill most of this summer. Lithium toxicity. Almost fatal!” he wrote on X at the time.
Oddie - whose mother was schizophrenic - had bipolar disorder and depression, for which lithium may be used.
The BBC nature presenter was known for his conservation workPA Archive"I am still here but very confused about most things! But then aren't many of us," Oddie added.
"IT fuddles my brain. Confusion. Will I return? I Really dunno. I do hope so. Please wish me luck. XX."
Read More
Very high amounts of lithium can cause problems with your kidneys and other organs, according to the NHS.
It can cause symptoms such as feeling or being sick, confusion and blackouts, shaking or muscle weakness, facial spasms, blurred vision and feeling faint.
In 2010, the TV presenter revealed he had endured "probably the worst 12 months of my life" due to his struggle with depression and bipolar disorder, having spent two periods in hospital in 2009.
Oddie is survived by his wife, Laura, and three daughters – Rosie, from his marriage to Laura, and Kate and Bonnie from his first marriage to the musician Jean Hart.
If you are struggling with mental health, you can speak to a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or email [email protected]