TVTV NewsThe One ShowVernon Kay and Alex Jones paid tribute to wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie OBE on The One Show following the news of his death aged 8507:41, 28 Jul 2026The One Show has returned to our screens after a lengthy break.‌The BBC programme aired on Monday (July 27) evening Alex Jones and Vernon Kay on presenting duty. The duo were joined by The Odyssey actress Samantha Morton and Fake or Fortune's Fiona Bruce and Phillip Mould who all opened up on their latest projects.‌However, before the show came to an end, the programme paid tribute to TV presenter and comedian Bill Oddie following his death aged 85.‌Vernon told viewers: "Before we go, we were sad to hear of the death of Bill Oddie today, someone who appeared on The One Show many times."As well as starring in The Goodies, Bill also went on to present Springwatch. Our thoughts are with his friends and family." Bill's death was announced earlier on in that day by his agent David Foster.‌His 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 continued that Bill "taught us the wonder of" the environment. "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."‌Chris Packham, Bill's successor on Springwatch, wrote on social media: "Sadly we've not only lost a goodie, we've lost one of the besties."He said: "A renegade polymath with binoculars and a beard, Bill was invariably funny and occasionally furious. He loved birds and loathed those who harmed them. He was delightfully unpredictable, sparky, smart and at times a bit spiky.Article continues below"Critically he really knew his stuff, and his passion was true - he didn't just pick up his binoculars on telly, he went birding whenever he could. So he was genuine and that's why we loved him."Bill was made an OBE in 2003 for services to wildlife conservation. He co-presented the first four series of the BBC's annual Springwatch from 2005, as well as spin-off Autumnwatch.The One Show airs weeknights on BBC One at 7pmChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌BBCThe One Show