Latest news with #TheReallyWildShow
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
BBC Springwatch's Michaela Strachan rushed to A&E fearing deadly disease
An animal bite in Madagascar led to the Springwatch star being swiftly taken to hospital. BBC Springwatch presenter Michaela Strachan has revealed details of her A&E experience following a bite from an animal while she was in East Africa. In a recent interview, the star disclosed that there were fears she had contracted a deadly disease from a bite she suffered in Madagascar. Michaela's bite required a visit to A&E for a vaccination due to concerns that the animal might have been rabid. But despite the urgent situation, Michaela later shared a humorous exchange with a nurse, reported the Express. Michaela told Bella magazine: "I was bitten by a lemur in Madagascar, and they thought it might have rabies, so I went to A&E for a jab, and I said to the nurse, 'Out of interest, why are you laying a bed out for me?' "She looked at her notes and said, 'Oh - bitten by a lemur! I thought it said, 'broken femur!'" Now in its 20th anniversary series, Springwatch returned to our screens on Monday, May 26, filmed from the Peak District. In the opening episode, viewers were treated to a compilation of clips from past shows. The latest edition of Springwatch introduces 'Springwatch Street', a new segment that offers viewers an intriguing peek at the secret life of wild animals on a Sheffield street, including a diversity of species such as hedgehogs, foxes, badgers, and swifts. Fans seem to have been anticipating the show's return, with one saying: "Springwatch at 20! Absolutely love this show! Great recap of the start and all of the amazing presenters that the show has had!" A second commented: "Springwatch is 20 - and I think I've watched every series." Another said it was "lovely" to have the show back, while a fourth dubbed the presenters "national treasures". Meanwhile, another viewer noted the show's Oasis theme (Chris was wearing a bucket hat). Michaela and Chris both hosted The Really Wild Show in the 90s and maintain a close off-screen friendship. Michaela divulged that they often share insights into each other's private lives. The pair also recently admitted that they sometimes disagree on set. According to OK!, Michaela is keen for the show to continue for a further 20 years, highlighting the importance of the natural world to our well-being, although she's also acutely aware of the effects of climate change. She illustrated these concerns by noting the increasing difficulty faced when trying to capture wildlife for the show, highlighting that even in wildlife -managed reserves, finding subjects to film is becoming increasingly challenging. The star also shared her thoughts about what we can do to address this, and it all appears to be down to awareness. She believes it's a case of keeping people "connected" to wildlife and ensuring they understand its importance. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Wales Online
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Springwatch's Chris Packham's relationship issues and how he once 'loathed' himself
BBC Springwatch's Chris Packham's relationship issues and how he once 'loathed' himself Chris Packham has been a mainstay of the BBC's nature coverage for more than a decade, but his life has been far from plain sailing Chris Packham is back on Springwatch (Image: PA ) Chris Packham, the renowned naturalist and familiar face of BBC's nature programmes, has been a staple on Springwatch and Winterwatch for over a decade. In addition to his television work, Chris is also an accomplished author and has contributed to several other TV shows, including The Really Wild Show and Birdwatch. He is currently back on screens on BBC Two for the 2025 series of Springwatch. The 64-year-old has also raised awareness for autism, which he was diagnosed with later in life and has recently reacted to comments from a Trump ally who claims to be able to "uncover the root cause of autism". Discussing US health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr's comments, on ITV's Good Morning Britain, the presenter said he had "mixed feelings" about RFK Jr looking for a cause to what he described as an "autism epidemic". He said: "Firstly, there's no epidemic. What we have done is we've created a wider awareness of this condition (autism) and therefore more people are able, hopefully, to access help. And that has to be seen as a very, very positive thing. "Because people are learning about these conditions on social media, which we all use every day, that's not a bad thing. That's opening our eyes to the fact that these conditions are real and they need addressing and support. "The second thing, as a scientist, I would love to know what has made me an autistic person. My curiosity is in that direction." For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter . Article continues below It wasn't until 2005 when, aged 44, Chris Packham sought therapy, which led to his Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis, which is a form of autism. Drawn from his personal diaries, it's apparent Chris recognised signs of autism long before receiving his formal diagnosis, one that proved transformative for him. In conversation with ITV's Good Morning Britain, he reflected: "I grew up in the sixties and seventies when the condition wasn't widely known, certainly by my parents and teachers. "So, by the time I'd got to the beginning of my teens, and certainly into the early part of my 20s, my mental health issues were quite considerable. "I loathed myself, I thought that I was broken. Clearly, I was in a lesser cohort than most other people, so I blamed myself for everything that was going wrong." Chris has spoken openly about his autism diagnosis (Image: Getty Images ) Chris discussed his struggles in the 2017 documentary film, Aspergers And Me, and he later spearheaded a BBC series titled Inside Our Autistic Minds. In this series, Chris assisted a group of autistic individuals in making short films to communicate with their loved ones how they truly feel and what is occurring within their autistic minds. Born on May 4, 1961, Chris spent his childhood in Southampton. He attended Bitterne Park Secondary School and Taunton's College before pursuing a zoology degree at the University of Southampton. After university, Chris embarked on a career as a wildlife cameraman, which eventually led to his transition into presenting in the 80s. His first major role was on the children's wildlife programme, The Really Wild Show, in 1986. The star landed a BBC presenting gig for Springwatch in 2009 and has since fronted a variety of documentaries, including Chris Packham: Is It Time to Break the Law?, Dogs in the Wild: Meet the Family, and Chris Packham: A Walk That Made Me. Something that might be news to many is that his sibling is among the UK's most prominent designers, with quite the portfolio of celebrity clientele. Jenny Packham, celebrating over three decades with her own brand, has seen her designs grace the silver screen in James Bond features Die Another Day and Casino Royale, as well as being showcased on hit series like Sex and the City and Gossip Girl. Her creations have been donned by the Duchess of Cambridge, not least the dazzling golden dress at the No Time To Die premiere. Stars such as Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Aniston, and Keira Knightley have also chosen Jenny's designs for their wardrobe. Chris has found love with Charlotte Corney, who owns and operates Wildheart Animal Sanctuary. The pair have openly expressed that they have no intention to marry or live together. Chris with his partner Charlotte Corney (Image: Daily Mirror ) On The Different Minds podcast, when queried about potential marriage plans, Chris responded: "I would say no. It's all about animals at the moment, we have to concentrate on them. Her tigers are old, my dog Scratchy is old. It's not about us, we have to get through this period basically of aged animals." In conversation with The Guardian regarding how his autism diagnosis in his 40s impacted his relationship, Chris shared insights into why his partnership with Charlotte remained strong, distinguishing it from past relationships that typically ended after five to seven years. He remarked: "They all reached their full term because, as much as I was dealing socially with my neurodiversity, I wasn't dealing with it at home. I couldn't let my guard down and that was always very challenging for my partners. "I have slightly better control of my obsessive personality now. That means I don't totally expose Charlotte to my obsessions and force her to be part of them, which is what I did in past relationships – while at the same time being pretty unforgiving when partners wanted me to do anything they valued and I didn't." Chris Packham, who was previously married to NHS nurse Jo McCubbin, remains close with Megan McCubbin, Jo's daughter from a previous relationship. Meg often joins Chris on his TV shows, including Springwatch. While Chris's precise residence in the New Forest is a well-guarded secret, he is thought to dwell in a quaint cottage accompanied by his two beloved dogs, Sid and Nancy. Article continues below In October, 2021, the wildlife expert disclosed that his Land Rover had been maliciously blown up right outside his Hampshire abode gate. He has also been subjected to death threats in the past, received human faeces mailed to his house, and found dead crows affixed to his New Forest home's fence.
Daily Mirror
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Springwatch's Chris Packham says dogs 'saved my life' during 'dark' time
Chris Packham, 64, has opened up about his mental health battles and how he once 'didn't want to be on this planet any longer', but his beloved pets gave him 'purpose' Chris Packham has poignantly disclosed that his pets provided him with 'purpose' during his lowest moments, confessing: "My dogs saved my life." The much-loved wildlife expert is set to grace our screens again on Monday, May 26, with the return of the beloved series Springwatch, where he will co-host with his long-time colleague Michaela Strachan. Despite his cheerful television presence, the 64-year-old has spoken out about his struggles with mental health and a time when he "didn't want to be on this planet any longer". In an intimate chat with Country Living, Chris, who rose to fame with the '80s hit show The Really Wild Show, revealed: "My dogs saved my life." He elaborated: "I've been in some dark places. I was so miserable I didn't want to be on this planet any longer, but my dogs took that choice away. They gave me the gift of purpose - and it's the reason I'm still here," reports Gloucestershire Live. The devoted animal enthusiast expressed how his connection with his Poodles was so profound that he "couldn't break it". He remarked: "I used to call my previous dogs 'my joy grenades'. I'd let them off the lead, and they'd run for the sheer joy of running. It didn't matter how miserable I was, that would always put a smile on my face." Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of 44, Chris notes that individuals on the autism spectrum can often form even stronger bonds with dogs. "I think it's because we're never judged. We are always accepted by that animal: the bonds are very tight," he explained. "Dogs offer us unconditional love. They are always pleased to see us. We trust them implicitly. I sleep with my dogs, we eat the same thing. I have an enormous responsibility and duty of care to make sure that my dogs are happy and healthy." Springwatch is celebrating its 20th year with a brand new segment called Springwatch Street, giving viewers a glimpse into the hidden lives of urban wildlife like foxes and swifts. Ahead of the new series, Chris spoke about his relationship with co-host Michaela, saying: "We're great friends. We know each other really well, so sometimes we may disagree about something, and the team may look at us and think, 'Oh my goodness, the presenters have fallen out!' "But we haven't. We don't get upset about those things. We don't have to agree about everything. We just move on. So, the fact that we're great, lifelong, trusted mates helps, but also that we work in very different ways in terms of way that we approach our job." Springwatch returns to BBC Two from Monday, May 26 at 8pm
Wales Online
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Springwatch stars share real truth behind their on-set 'fallouts'
BBC Springwatch stars share real truth behind their on-set 'fallouts' The BBC programme continues to share captivating stories as it marks two decades of exploring nests, badger setts, otter holts and waterways, with Michaela Strachan and Chris Packham BBC Springwatch hosts Michaela Strachan and Chris Packham are marking two decades of the show that shares fascinating insights into the lives of native wildlife, with a special peek into three weeks of activity including nests, badger setts, otter holts, and waterways. Returning next week, the latest series includes an exciting new feature titled Springwatch Street, which explores the secret world of urban wildlife - revealing to viewers the array of creatures such as foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, and even a nest of swifts discreetly coexisting with the human inhabitants. "There will be a lot of surprises," says Michaela, 59. "If you watch your garden in the day, you'll see the birds come, but what comes out at night is going to be really interesting. And what's going on in the undergrowth. It's the small stuff that is always so interesting and hopefully that will inspire people to do even more in their gardens. We'll give tips to encourage people to help particular insects or worms or caterpillars for instance." Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Welsh presenter Iolo Williams (Image: BBC/Jo Charlesworth ) Michaela admits to a deep fondness for fellow presenter Chris, with whom she shares not just screenspace but also a genuine friendship since the days of The Really Wild Show in the 1990s. "Not only are we friends, and we know each other's personal lives, but people have watched us growing up on telly," reveals Michaela, reports OK!. "We're great friends," says Chris, 64. "We know each other really well, so sometimes we may disagree about something, and the team may look at us and think, 'Oh my goodness, the presenters have fallen out!' But we haven't. We don't get upset about those things. We don't have to agree about everything. We just move on. So, the fact that we're great, lifelong, trusted mates helps, but also that we work in very different ways in terms of way that we approach our job." Article continues below Chris and Michaela have worked together for decades (Image: BBC Studios ) Michaela is hopeful that Springwatch will continue for another 20 years as she believes that connecting with nature is crucial for our mental health and wellbeing. However, over the 13 years Michaela has been part of Springwatch, she's observed the impact climate change is having on our wildlife. "I think it's getting more and more important because climate change has changed the world we live in and there is less and less wildlife," Michaela expresses. "Over the years I've done the show, I've seen it's much harder to find the wildlife to film, even in places that are managed for wildlife. Even in managed reserves we're sometimes struggling. And I think we need to keep people connected. "I think that's what it's all about - it's getting people connected to wildlife, making people realise how important wildlife is, and making people realise how good it is for their mental health and wellbeing. Intrinsically, we're supposed to be connected to wildlife. And I think by losing that, we're losing part of ourselves as a human species." Chris agrees that Springwatch plays a vital role in encouraging us to take a break from our daily grind and focus on the world around us. "Springwatch is one of those programmes that gives you the opportunity to stop and think about the little things in life that you may not have spent enough time focusing upon," Chris says. "I love the things that I didn't know sort of existed. Tree slugs for instance, I had seen slime trails up trees when I was a kid but I'd never bothered to come up with the answer. "And then someone said that these creatures live on the ground in the daytime and they go to the tops of the trees at night, and they felt like a complete revelation." Article continues below Springwatch starts on Monday, Mat 26 at 8pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.
Daily Record
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
BBC Springwatch's Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan admit they 'disagree' on set
Their bond has stood the test of time, but even close mates like Michaela Strachan and Chris Packham have their own disagreements. As Springwatch celebrates its 20th anniversary, Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan will present three weeks of wildlife from the National Trust's Longshaw Estate in the stunning Peak District. Marking two decades of observing nests, badger setts, otter holts and waterways, Springwatch still has stories to share. There's a thrilling new segment called Springwatch Street, which will reveal the natural neighbours of one Sheffield street, uncovering foxes, badgers, hedgehogs and a swifts' nest living unnoticed right under residents' noses. "There will be a lot of surprises," says Michaela, 59. "If you watch your garden in the day, you'll see the birds come, but what comes out at night is going to be really interesting. "And what's happening in the undergrowth. It's the small stuff that is always so fascinating and hopefully that will inspire people to do even more in their gardens. We'll give tips to encourage people to help particular insects or worms or caterpillars for instance." Michaela adores the wildlife on the show, but she also cherishes her co-presenter Chris, who she first started out with on The Really Wild Show in the 1990s. "Not only are we friends, and we know each other's personal lives, but people have watched us growing up on telly," says Michaela, reports the Mirror. "We're great mates," declares Chris, 64. "We know each other inside out, so occasionally we might have a disagreement and the team might think, 'Blimey, the presenters are at odds!' But we're not. We don't let those things bother us. "We don't need to see eye to eye on everything. We just move forward. So, the fact that we're close, lifelong, trusted pals helps, but also that we have distinct approaches to our job." Michaela is hopeful that Springwatch will carry on for another two decades as she believes that connecting with nature is crucial for our mental health and wellbeing. However, in her 13 years with Springwatch, she's observed the effects of climate change on our wildlife. "I reckon it's becoming increasingly important because climate change has altered the world we inhabit and there is dwindling wildlife," Michaela points out. "Over the years I've been on the show, I've noticed it's much more difficult to locate wildlife to film, even in areas that are maintained for wildlife. Even in managed reserves, we're sometimes struggling. "And we need to keep people engaged. That's what it's all about - it's about getting people connected to wildlife, making them understand how vital wildlife is, and making them realise how beneficial it is for their mental health and wellbeing. Fundamentally, we're meant to be connected to wildlife. By losing that, we're losing part of ourselves as a human species." Chris has expressed his belief that Springwatch plays a crucial role in encouraging people to pause their busy lives and appreciate nature. "Springwatch is one of those programmes that gives you the opportunity to stop and think about the little things in life that you may not have spent enough time focusing upon," Chris remarked. "I love the things that I didn't know sort of existed. Tree slugs for instance, I had seen slime trails up trees when I was a kid but I'd never bothered to come up with the answer. And then someone said that these creatures live on the ground in the daytime and they go to the tops of the trees at night, and they felt like a complete revelation." Reflecting on the past twenty years, Chris highlighted a memorable moment involving a stickleback fish named Spinless Si. "If I had to pick one thing that really encapsulated the program's success, it would be in Minsmere, with Spinless Si, the stickleback," he shared. "Because we managed to turn a five centimetre small common fish into a national treasure that featured on the news across TV, Radio and national newspapers." Chris attributes the show's enduring appeal to its engagement with viewers and focus on accessible wildlife. He explained: "We also deliberately focus upon a lot of back garden wildlife, things that people know, that they already share with their communities, whether that is foxes or hedgehogs or blackbirds or blue tits. "And then we show people the intricacies of their life, stories which otherwise they wouldn't be able to see, because we've got the technology to do it." And then we reveal to people the intricacies of their life, stories which otherwise they wouldn't be able to see, because we've got the technology to do it." Springwatch is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
