Eric Idle has paid tribute to Bill Oddie following the news of the Goodies star’s death at age 85, reflecting on their early friendship despite estrangement in recent years. Idle recalled their initial connection at Cambridge University and the shared experience of attending England’s 1966 World Cup victory at Wembley. However, he acknowledged that their relationship had cooled, saying he did not know the reason why Oddie had been upset with him for years.

Another Goodies colleague, Graeme Garden, remembered a birdwatching trip with Oddie, noting the comedian’s enthusiasm for spotting rare birds, though Garden himself was less convinced of the sightings. Garden, 83, described the birds as “small, smudgy things in the distance” but appreciated the outing.

In other news, Michael Whitehall and his wife, actress Hilary Whitehall, have temporarily sent their new pet cockapoo, named Nigel Havers after the actor formerly managed by Michael, to a residential dog training program. Hilary confirmed the decision was prompted by behavior issues, specifically nipping, which they hope the training will resolve.

Meanwhile, television presenter Holly Willoughby has faced critical feedback following the recent launch of her YouTube channel. She also shared a humorous challenge of learning online platform terminology, recalling how her teenage daughter, Belle, mocked her attempts to use phrases like “And subscribe” and “Ding the bell and you’ll get notifications.” Willoughby, 45, acknowledged her daughter’s amusement as she navigates the digital space.