This Morning star’s tribute to Bill Oddie following his death ‘he was a good guy’

A sweet tribute was dedicated to TV personality Bill Oddie on ITV’s This Morning following his death at age 85

This Morning shared a touching tribute following the death of wildlife presenter and comedian, Bill Oddie.

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 (July 25). Bill went on to host wildlife programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.

Sharing the sad news on This Morning during the segment Morning Views, presenter Dermot O’Leary said: “Bill Oddie has passed away. Naturalist, broadcaster, comedian, died at 85, his agent revealed this morning.”

Dermot then handed the reins over to guest Gyles Brandreth, who said: “I certainly knew Bill Oddie and I, of course, loved The Goodies.”

Gyles went on to speak fondly about the show The Goodies and how he loved the concept. He added: “The great thing for Bill Oddie is that he had a second public life, his passion – he had several passions – but one of them was art, he was a great painter. But also nature, he loved the outdoor world, he was a proper birder.”

Gyles ended his tribute by labelling Bill a “good guy”.

Presenter Alsion Hammond then said: “What a lovely way to remember him. Our thoughts are with his wife and his daughters. Thank you so much.”

Viewers who tuned in to This Morning also shared their condolences on X, formerly known as Twitter. One viewer wrote: “RIP Bill. Thanks for the memories. I will always remember the Funky Gibbon.”

Another penned: “Sorry to hear that comic and ornithologist, Bill Oddie has died.”

On Monday (July 27), a statement from his friend and agent, David Foster, was released to announce Bill’s passing. The statement read: “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.

“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.”

This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1.