Monty Don signs off from Gardeners’ World after two decades
The veteran presenter bid farewell from his Longmeadow garden, while his successor on the BBC series remains unnamed.
Key points
- Monty Don presented his final episode of Gardeners' World on Friday, according to BBC News.
- He filmed the farewell at Longmeadow, the show's base for 16 years.
- Don will stay on for two winter specials and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show next year.
- The BBC has not yet named a successor or announced the next series.
Veteran broadcaster Monty Don has presented his final episode of Gardeners’ World, the BBC gardening series he fronted for more than twenty years. According to BBC News, the episode aired on Friday and was filmed at Longmeadow, the garden where the programme has been based for 16 years. Don, 71, thanked viewers and his dog Ned as he said goodbye.
In the programme, Don described the farewell as a “privilege and pleasure” to share his garden and his work with so many people. He said he hoped viewers would enjoy their own gardens in the future. The episode closed with a brief, simple goodbye to the audience.
What comes next for Don
Don has confirmed he will still feature among the hosts when the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show returns next year. He will also appear in two winter specials, which are expected to air before Christmas.
One of these celebratory episodes will look back at his years on the show and the changes he has seen at Longmeadow. The garden is also the private home that he and his wife Sarah bought in 1991, which adds a personal dimension to the programme.
A long career on the series
Don replaced Alan Titchmarsh as presenter in 2003, at Titchmarsh’s own request. He recalled in the farewell that he had first presented the series at Berryfields before the move to Longmeadow. He said the garden had grown over the years and that several dogs had come and gone during his time there.
Back in September, Don disclosed that the ongoing season would be his final one as host. Speaking in a statement then, he called the job a “deeply rewarding experience” and said it was time for something new. The BBC said he had inspired millions of viewers with his warmth and passion for gardening.
Successor and background
The BBC has not yet named a successor, and details of the next series will be announced at a later date. Bookmakers and viewers have pointed to regular co-presenters Frances Tophill and Adam Frost as likely contenders. Tophill has, however, played down expectations that she would step straight into the role.
Before Gardeners’ World, Don worked on programmes including Tomorrow’s World and Holiday, and also gave gardening spots on This Morning. A minor stroke in 2008 led him to pause his work on the programme for three years. Queen Elizabeth gave him an OBE in 2018 in recognition of his work in gardening, television and charitable causes. He has also received the RHS Victoria Medal of Honour, the top prize in horticulture. The final episode is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monty Don leaving Gardenersu0026#039; World completely?
Monty Don presented his final regular episode of Gardenersu0026#039; World. He will still appear in two winter specials and will also host at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show next year, according to the BBC.
Who will replace Monty Don on Gardenersu0026#039; World?
The BBC has not yet named a successor. Frances Tophill and Adam Frost have been mentioned as likely contenders by bookmakers and viewers, but no decision has been announced.
Where can viewers watch Monty Donu0026#039;s final episode?
The final episode is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer, the BBC reported.
Sources
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