Comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie took to social media to tell fans that he was ‘confused’ after battling an ‘almost fatal illness’ following his final TV appearance
The legendary TV presenter Bill Oddie has sadly passed away at the age of 85. The fervent conservationist was most fondly remembered by viewers for hosting the BBC’s Springwatch from 2005 to 2008, alongside co-presenter Kate Humble.
TV presenter Bill Oddie, who has sadly died at the age of 85, spoke about his “almost fatal illness” shortly after he appeared on TV for the. last time The television legend stepped back from wildlife broadcasting in recent years and made his final official TV appearance in 2020 on the Channel 5 series Celebrity Britain by Barge: Then and Now.
In September of that year, Bill shared that he had been “very ill most of this summer.” The conservationist wrote on X/Twitter: “Lithium toxicity. Almost fatal! I am still here but very confused about most things! But then aren’t many of us. It fuddles my brain. Confusion. Will I return? I really dunno. I do hope so. Please wish me luck. XX.
According to the NHS, Lithium is prescribed to treat mood disorders such as mania and bipolar disorders.
During the six-part Channel 5 documentary, Bill shared a narrowboat with Pete Waterman and together they navigated routes including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Scottish canals near Falkirk and the Grand Union Canal across Oxfordshire and Warwickshire.
Throughout the series, Bill and Pete were joined by Jennie Bond and Anne Diamond as they explored the delights of the UK’s inland waterways, reports the Express.
They also journeyed along Scottish canals from Falkirk and the Grand Union canal in Oxfordshire. During their voyage, they all gained insight into the role Clydesdale horses played on the waterway.
The TV stars also discovered how pleasure boats began to utilise the canal in the late 1800s, ferrying people from the city to the countryside for day trips.
Bill sadly died at the age of 85 on 27 July 2026. His passing was confirmed by his agent, David Foster, who led tributes and recalled the television star as his “friend,” adding: “It was an honour and a privilege to represent him for so many years. I will miss him terribly.”
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