British comedian and wildlife presenter Bill Oddie dies 85

Bill Oddie, the beloved British comedian and wildlife presenter, has died at the age of 85. His death was confirmed on Monday, July 27, 2026, by his agent and friend, David Foster. Foster stated that Oddie passed away on Saturday, July 25.

Oddie was a multifaceted entertainer and conservationist, best known for two distinct yet successful careers. He first rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the comedy trio The Goodies, alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden. The group's eponymous television show, a surreal sketch comedy series, ran from 1970 to 1982 and became a cultural phenomenon, even spawning a top-five chart hit with "The Funky Gibbon."

A lifelong birdwatcher and naturalist, Oddie seamlessly transitioned into wildlife broadcasting. His passion became his profession, leading to a series of popular BBC programs including "Birding with Bill Oddie," "Bill Oddie Goes Wild," and most notably, "Springwatch" and its companion "Autumnwatch." These shows, which tracked British wildlife through the seasons, regularly attracted millions of viewers and cemented his status as a trusted and enthusiastic voice for nature.

In a statement announcing Oddie's death, Foster paid...