Gardeners’ World is fronted by 70 year old horticultural expert Monty Don, who has helmed the beloved BBC show since 2003 following Alan Titchmarsh’s departure. Whilst the gardening expert and canine enthusiast routinely shares uplifting content about cultivating flora and produce, numerous personal challenges have affected the presenter in recent times.
Devastating ailment
Earlier this summer, Monty provided an update after being struck down by a “terrible” illness twice, prompting supportive messages from his devoted following. In 2023, he contracted COVID, informing his social media audience: “That would explain why I have felt terrible for the past couple of days.”
READ MORE: Mum films deserted UK beach in 30C heatwave before making horrifying discovery
READ MORE: Horror as child ‘raped in Staffordshire pub’ as urgent e-fit issued
This represented the second occasion Monty had contracted the virus, having previously been bedridden for four days, when he informed supporters: “Boy, doesn’t it knock you sideways – utterly exhausting.”
Auditory problems
During a Greek getaway with companions this year, he realised his sense of smell wasn’t matching that of his friends. He also revealed that his spouse Sarah’s ability to smell had been “dramatically affected” since the Coronavirus pandemic, reports the Express.
Speaking on the Gardeners’ World Magazine podcast, he said: “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.”
Monty Don often shares updates with his dogs -Credit:INSTAGRAM
Poignant goodbye
Earlier this year, Monty received an outpouring of support after he emotionally bid farewell to a “dear friend.” He announced his companion’s passing on Instagram, penning a heartfelt message.
In a previous interview on BBC Radio Four, Monty discussed how gardening can provide solace during times of grief. 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
Recently, a Gardeners’ World contributor named Steve shared his devastating terminal cancer news on the programme alongside his wife, Pippa. Viewers were brought to tears as Steve explained it could be “two months or two years, possibly” before he passes away.
Despite this, his optimistic outlook has remained, with Steve viewing his cancer as a “new challenge” during the poignant episode which aired earlier this month.
Gardeners’ World airs on BBC Two and is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Comments are closed.