Paul Whitehouse shares heartbreaking tribute to Gone Fishing dog
The comic has recalled the mischievous antics of his and Bob Mortimer’s much-loved canine companion Ted.
Paul Whitehouse has paid an emotional tribute to his beloved Gone Fishing companion Ted, admitting the little dog had a mind of his own as he and Bob Mortimer reflected on their late co-star ahead of the BBC programme’s return.
The comedian, 68, appeared alongside Bob Mortimer, 67, in an Instagram video commemorating the Patterdale Terrier cross, who died in April after becoming one of the most popular members of Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
Ted first appeared in the BBC Two series in 2020 and became a regular fixture alongside the two comedians, accompanying them on fishing trips across Britain.
With the ninth series approaching, Paul and Bob recalled their time with the dog and confirmed that viewers would have another opportunity to see him on screen.
Paul said: “The really great thing about Ted is, he didn't give a monkey's about us, did he, Bob? I think that's what we really loved about him.”
Bob agreed, saying: “He was the perfect dog in that sense.”
Paul added: “He was more of a cat in some ways. He just went off and did what he wanted.”
Bob, who became a household name alongside Vic Reeves, 67, through comedy programmes including The Smell of Reeves and Mortimer and Shooting Stars, recalled Ted’s independent personality.
He said: “He never caused us a problem, he'd give us a bit of lip.”
Paul responded: “He couldn't help it, could he?”
Imitating the dog, he joked: “A lot of trauma in my early days, it's gotta come out, ain't it sometimes.”
Bob added: “He was the perfect companion.”
Paul agreed, saying: “He really was, he'd go off, and he'd rummage around and root around. I think people didn't mess with Ted.”
He added: “The animal kingdom did not mess with Ted.”
The comedians have presented Gone Fishing since 2018, with the programme following their fishing expeditions, conversations about health and ageing, and visits to locations around Britain.
The series developed from their friendship and shared experiences of serious heart problems, with Paul encouraging Bob to take up fishing following his recovery from triple heart bypass surgery.
Paul, who first found fame through The Fast Show and later appeared in Harry and Paul alongside Harry Enfield, 65, has also spoken about the importance of the programme to their friendship.
Ted became a familiar presence from the third series, frequently wandering along riverbanks, investigating the surrounding countryside and occasionally interrupting the presenters.
Reflecting on the opportunity for viewers to see Ted again, Bob said: “It's very sad, but it is lovely that we've got an episode left, where people can reflect on his presence.”
The tribute prompted messages from viewers who had followed the dog’s appearances over several years.
One fan commented: “They had Ted down to a T, didn't they. Love the pics of him running and rooting around. Dear dear Ted, he'll be part of the Gone Fishing team forever.”
Another added: “Bless Ted, gone but not forgotten, a little treasure.”
Ted’s death was announced in April by the programme’s executive producer and his owner, Lisa Clark.
Bob also shared a tribute following the announcement.
He said: “So very, very sad. Lovely Ted, the best companion and the greatest little chum. Going to miss him so much... and away boss.”
Paul marked the loss with a message recalling the dog’s distinctive personality.
He said: “Bye-bye, Ted, old friend. He wasn't a dog; he was a species all of his own. He's gone to the great briefcase emporium in the sky. We will really miss you, mate.”
