Monty Don announced he was stepping away from Gardeners’ World after 23 years to explore new opportunities – and fans are now wondering who could replace him
Amanda Holden shared her thoughts on who could replace Monty Don
Amanda Holden has put forward a surprise name as a possible successor to Monty Don on BBC’s Gardeners’ World. Fans expressed their sadness this week after the 71-year-old revealed that the current series of the show will be his last after 23 years.
Since the news, Monty has already announced a new role, becoming the face of the Bleue Burnham x New Balance collaboration. However, fans will still get to see him on screen, as he has teased that other shows are in the pipeline.
Following his departure announcement, many fans have been discussing who could step into his shoes as a regular presenter. According to Amanda, actress and keen gardener Caroline Quentin could be the perfect fit.
Speaking on Heart Radio Breakfast with her co-host Jamie Theakston, she said: “People might not know this, she’s fascinating, she’s funny, she’s an actress, she knows a lot about gardening and growing things.
“I’ve known her for years and I follow her on Instagram and she’s also an amazing artist, so she paints a lot of flowers and vegetables and things but she’d be really good.”
Jamie went on to say that Monty will be missed on the show, while claiming that he has “big hands”.
Agreeing, Amanda said: “Oh yeah, Caroline’s got big hands, she’ll be alright,” which prompted them to giggle. “She’s going to hate me for that!”.
In an emotional statement shared on his Instagram page this week, Monty told fans the time is right to explore new opportunities.
He added of his time on the programme: “Throughout that time – and around 700 programmes – I have had the privilege of sharing my own abiding passion for gardens and gardening with an equally passionate, and often equally knowledgeable audience.
“That connection with millions, not just in Britain but across the world, who share a love of gardens, plants and the natural world is something I have always treasured and which I increasingly believe to be at the heart of a life well lived.”
Teasing what’s to come in his career, he shared: “There are more books to write, more programmes to make. And of course, I will still be gardening, dog by side, here at Longmeadow.”
BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips said she was “very sad” about Monty’s decision, calling him “utterly unique” and praising his calm, inspiring presence.
No replacement has been announced, though several current Gardeners’ World presenters are seen as potential contenders, including Adam Frost, Frances Tophill, Jamie Butterworth, Joe Swift and Arit Anderson.
Previously asked if she could see herself becoming a more regular face on the show like Monty, Frances said she hoped he’d never leave, while ruling out a broadcasting role.
She told The Sunday Times: “I have a huge respect for Monty – it is such a generous thing to give your garden space to the nation and he does it so well. I hope he never leaves. Broadcasting is not my day job, my day job is being a gardener.”
