Bill Oddie, a multi-talented performer celebrated for his work with the comedy group The Goodies and later for his popular bird-watching television programs, has died at the age of 85. Oddie, who died on July 27, 2026, was a ferociously funny comedian and satirist, but also a prolific songwriter and, in his later years, a beloved television personality known for his deep affection for birds.

Oddie's career began at Cambridge University with the Footlights Society, where he collaborated with future comedy stars like Tim Brooke-Taylor, Graeme Garden, and John Cleese. He co-wrote and starred in the BBC radio show "I'm Sorry, I'll Read That Again." He also contributed to television shows such as "Doctor In The House" and "That Was The Week That Was."

The Goodies Era

Alongside Brooke-Taylor and Garden, Oddie formed The Goodies, a sketch comedy show that achieved immense popularity in the 1970s. The trio played exaggerated versions of themselves, becoming a fixture of BBC1's programming. The show was known for its slapstick humor and surreal scenarios. One notable episode, "Kitten Kong," depicted a giant kitten wreaking havoc in London, earning the show a Silver Rose award at the Montreux Light Entertainment Festival. The group's comedic performances were so impactful that one fan reportedly died laughing after watching an episode featuring their signature martial art, "Ecky Thump."

The Goodies also found success with novelty songs, including "The Inbetweenies" and "The Funky Gibbon," which charted in the UK. Oddie, however, struggled with the fame and recognition that accompanied their pop stardom, sometimes finding public interactions difficult.

Personal Struggles and Reinvention

Despite his comedic success, Oddie battled lifelong depression, which intensified in his later years. This internal struggle sometimes led him to lash out at those around him. His first marriage ended partly due to the pressures of his career and his admitted one-night stands.

Oddie's childhood was marked by hardship, including the mental illness of his mother. He found solace in his love for birds, a passion that began in his youth and grew throughout his life. This fascination with ornithology led to a significant career reinvention.

Apart from his wife and three adored daughters, the one thing that gave him respite from the waves of sadness was his love of birds. Watching them, he lost himself, writes Christopher Stevens

In 2005, Oddie became the first presenter of the BBC's "Springwatch." His role as a passionate, if sometimes cantankerous, wildlife expert resonated with audiences. However, his tenure ended after a series of on-air disagreements, leading to his departure from the show, which he described as the worst year of his life.

Finding Peace in Nature

Following his departure from "Springwatch," Oddie experienced a significant decline in his mental health, at one point attempting to take his own life. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder. While lithium treatment helped, his mental health remained fragile.

Oddie found significant comfort and joy in his garden and the birds he observed there. He often spoke of whistling duets with a local blackbird, finding peace and a distraction from his internal battles in these simple interactions with nature.

Bill, who has died aged 85, was not always able to take much pleasure in his success

He is survived by his wife, Laura, and their daughter Rosie, as well as his daughters Kate and Bonnie from his first marriage.