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Beloved television presenter Bill Oddie passed away at the age of 85.
On Monday, July 27th, the BBC reported that one of Britain's best-known comedians and naturalists breathed his last on Saturday, July 25th, two days before the sombre announcement of his death.
Oddie’s agent and friend David Foster confirmed his death via a heart-wrenching statement, which read, "It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country's best-loved birder."
He further explained that his deceased friend was more than just larger than life, as he wrote, "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 explained.
Oddie is survived by his wife, Laura, and his daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie, who have also asked for privacy during the difficult phase of their lives.
The late wildlife presenter's family has yet to reveal the cause of his death and details of his mass funeral.
Early life and career highlights of Bill Oddie
Notably, Oddie, who was born near Rochdale, Lancashire, on 7 July 1941, rose to prominence for presenting nature shows; the natural world had always been a passion of his.
He was a council member of the RSPB, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and The Worldwide Fund for Nature. He was also president of The Northumberland Wildlife Trust and represented many other nature organisations.
The deceased artist also wrote and appeared on numerous programmes, including I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again, which featured many of his comic songs.
His songs led The Goodies to several major chart hits, most notably with the 1975 track The Funky Gibbon.
