Monty Don has given an update on the future of BBC’s Gardeners’ World, which has been running for decades.
The 68-year-old has fronted the series on all things plants since 2003, and it’s been speculated many times that he might soon call it a day.
Addressing the future of the series directly, Don has assured fans that he’ll continue to present the show for “at least another three years”.
It came during his recent appearance on The One Show, in which host Alex Jones questioned the gardening expert on his plans.
“There are some rumours in the paper, I'm not happy about it Monty, that you and Gardeners' World are parting company,” she stated, adding: “Tell me this is not true.”
"It is not true,” Don replied as Jones breathed a sigh of relief. He continued: “All things being equal, and unless I do something terribly wrong, I will be doing it for at least another three years, including this year.”
Monty Don has fronted Gardeners' World since 2003
BBC
Fans’ concerns likely came from an interview Don did on Times Radio last year, in which he stated “giving up” Gardeners’ World would be the “logical thing to do”.
At the time, he explained: “The serious point is I will be 70 in two years time. I want to go on. I like making television programmes.
"I like writing books. To have the energy to do that and not scrabble, always that sense of scrabbling.
“I think I have to give something up and I'm not prepared to give up writing and I really enjoy the travel stuff I do.”
The horticulturist said he'd continue with the show for 'at least another three years'
BBC
He concluded: "So therefore the logical thing to give up is Gardener's World, which is, for all its virtues, a remorseless treadmill."
Late last year, Don was flooded with support after announcing the sad news that his beloved dog, who frequently featured on the show, had died.
Taking to social media in October, the horticulturist posted a photo of golden retriever Nel on Instagram and wrote: "I was going to tell you about my new book which is published next week but that can wait because my lovely dear Nell died last night.
"She was diagnosed with cancer in June and every day this summer has been a gift but it is over now.
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Don announced the death of his beloved dog in October
BBC
"Her end was peaceful and dignified and ended obvious suffering but it never gets any easier to bear.
"So life goes on, but for the moment we are very, very sad," he continued. Fans flocked to the comments section to offer their condolences and support.
Not long after, Don posted once again to thank fans for their messages as he continued to grieve.