The show provides an oasis of calm to viewers wanting respite from a chaotic world, but it too is not immune from heartbreaking events
Ravi Meah and Rebecca Jones
10:27, 18 Aug 2025Updated 11:07, 18 Aug 2025
Monty Don has been the face of Gardeners’ World for 22 years(Image: Alexandra Henderson/AHA Productions Ltd)
Gardeners’ World is fronted by 70-year-old horticultural expert Monty Don, who has been the beloved face of the BBC show since 2003 when he took over from Alan Titchmarsh. While the plant-loving presenter and dog enthusiast routinely shares updates about life’s finer aspects, such as cultivating plants and vegetables, a number of personal struggles have affected the host in recent times.
Covid setbacks
Earlier this year, Monty provided an update after being struck down by a “terrible” illness twice, which prompted an outpouring of concern from his devoted following. He contracted Covid, informing his social media audience: “That would explain why I have felt terrible for the past couple of days.”
This was the second time Monty had contracted the virus, having previously been bedridden for four days, when he shared with supporters: “Boy, doesn’t it knock you sideways – utterly exhausting.”
The presenter adores Ned, his Golden Retriever(Image: Adrian Dennis/AFP via Getty Images)Sensory issues
While on a trip to Greece with friends this year, Monty realised his sense of smell wasn’t as good as that of his comrades. And he was not alone – his wife Sarah’s ability for smell had been “dramatically affected” since the Covid outbreak.
He told the Gardeners’ World Magazine podcast: “Perfume is almost lost on me, occasionally my wife has said, ‘Which perfume do you prefer?’ and they’re both exactly the same to me, or the difference is so small that’s it’s not interesting. So clearly that’s a lack, but there’s nothing I can do about it.”
Heartfelt goodbye
Earlier this year, Monty was inundated with messages of support following his emotional farewell to a “dear friend”, reports the Express. He revealed his companion’s death on Instagram, penning a touching tribute.
He said: “The end of a profoundly moving and celebratory day saying goodbye to a dear friend – all done in magnificent style. I think Rosie would have approved.”
Prior to his loss, he also spoke about how gardening can provide solace during times of loss in a BBC Radio 4 interview. He said: “One of the things that has always moved me, and this has often been said by people who are grieving, is that the rhythm of the seasons is a huge comforter. In the bleakest midwinter, you trust that spring will come, that the blossom will appear.”
Cancer diagnosis
Never did Monty’s words ring true than on this tender moment involving a Gardeners’ World contributor named Steve. He recently revealed his devastating terminal cancer diagnosis on the show alongside his wife, Pippa.
Audiences were reduced to tears as Steve disclosed it might be “two months or two years, possibly” before his death. Despite this, his positive attitude has remained intact, with Steve describing his cancer as a “new challenge” during the poignant episode that broadcast earlier this month.
Watch Gardeners’ World on BBC Two and on the BBC iPlayer
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