By Fatma Younis
Monty Don has announced that his final episode as presenter of BBC's Gardeners' World will air this Friday, marking the end of a 23-year tenure on the programme.
Final episode details
The 71-year-old presenter revealed the date in a video posted from his Herefordshire garden, Longmeadow, where the show has been filmed since 2011. The episode will be broadcast at 8pm on BBC Two.
Long career on the show
Don took over from Alan Titchmarsh in 2002 and has fronted the series for more than two decades, with a three-year break in 2008 after suffering a minor stroke. Over roughly 700 programmes, he shared his passion for gardening with a global audience.
Companion dogs through the years
The show has also featured Don's dogs, including golden retriever Nigel, who died in 2020, Brittany spaniel Peggy, who died in January 2026, Yorkshire terrier Patti, who died last month, and his current golden retriever Ned.
Reason for departure
Don said he "woke up and knew" it was time to stop, describing the decision as similar to a sportsperson knowing when to retire. He plans to pursue new avenues after leaving the programme.
