BBC Springwatch fans distracted by 'silver fox' Iolo Williams' new look as show returns
BBC Springwatch has returned to our screens for its 20th series with hosts Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams - who was sporting a beard
Wildlife series Springwatch has returned to the BBC celebrating its 20th anniversary with presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan leading the way.
Broadcasting from a new location in the Peak District, the duo kicked off the first episode on Monday, May 26 showcasing a montage featuring highlights and past presenters such as Kate Humble and Bill Oddie, harking back to the show's inception in 2005.
Donning a bucket hat, Chris Packham enthused viewers with a slew of Oasis references during his welcome speech: "You will want to be here now as we are going to bring you the Champagne supernova of wildlife TV starting tonight."
But it was Welsh presenter Iolo Williams and his new appearance that really got fans talking as he chatted to Chris and Michaela in a live link from a rain-drenched Belfast.
Iolo Williams unveiled a new look on BBC Springwatch
(Image: BBC )
Escape to the Country turns emotional as guest breaks down in tears
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Sporting a new grey beard, he told viewers: "My beard and I, we're going to take you on a Northern Ireland road trip," then went on to discuss the various locations and wildlife he would be featuring in the upcoming weeks, like foxes and seals.
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"So Chris and Michaela we have got three wildlife-packed weeks coming up for you," he concluded, passing back to the Peak District where Chris was eager to hear Michaela's thoughts on Iolo's fresh look.
Iolo without his beard
(Image: BBC )
"I know, more rain, more hair - I like it. I almost think you look quite handsome actually Iolo," Michaela shared.
While Chris humorously added: "I think he looks like a Norwegian resistance fighter in the Second World War personally."
Viewers promptly took to X to share their opinions with one writing: "Liking the beard!" Another posted: "Loving @IoloWilliams2's beard."
And one joked: "Silver fox sighting on #Springwatch already, Iolo definitely needs to keep the beard."
BBC Springwatch has returned for its 20th anniversary with Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan
(Image: BBC )
Meanwhile, fans also rushed to comment on the show in general, with audiences sharing their elation over its return on platform X, reports Gloucestershire Live.
One fan expressed: "Springwatch at 20! Absolutely love this show! Great recap of the start and all of the amazing presenters that the show has had!" Meanwhile, another said: "Springwatch is 20 - and I think I've watched every series."
Other comments included: "Wonderful #springwatch is back - @ChrisPackham4 and @michaelastracha are national treasures."
Another viewer's post read: "Lovely to have #Springwatch back on our screens. And from the #PeakDistrict too!" Also making waves:"Ssshhhh it's finally #springwatch time! Welcome back."
Fans were quick to notice the Oasis theme Chris was channeling. One commented: "@ChrisGPackham clearly on an Oasis kick tonight."
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Another observed: "Oasis songs then Chris?" A third spotted: "Sneaky Oasis references in the first 10 minutes."
And another noted: "Some might say that Chris is naming Oasis songs."
Springwatch is on BBC Two weeknights at 8pm
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