Tribute Paid to Beloved Reading FC Figure Bill Oddie

Reading FC have paid tribute to Bill Oddie, a much-loved figure among Royals supporters, after his passing. The comedian and broadcaster became a fan favourite through a cult chant that took off in the early 2010s.

What Happened?

Bill Oddie, best known as a member of the 1970s comedy trio The Goodies and later as a wildlife presenter, had no formal connection to the club but became a fan favourite through a terrace chant celebrating his name and trademark beard.

Why It Matters for Reading FC

The chant, which often left opposition fans confused, became a crowd favourite at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, and Oddie even took to social media to joke with Reading fans about their league position.

What Comes Next?

The club said Oddie's legacy would endure through the chant and the fondness with which he was regarded by the Reading FC community.

Reading FC is currently 40 points behind leaders Lincoln in the title race, with a league standing of 12th in League One, 63 points, 16 wins, 15 draws, and 15 losses from 46 games, with a recent form of LDLLL. The team has scored 64 goals and conceded 60 this season, with a goal difference of +4. The next fixture is against Blackpool away on February 13, 2027, where the team will be looking to improve their league position.

In a statement, the club described Oddie as "a much-loved figure" at Reading FC, despite having no formal ties to the team. His iconic chant will live on among supporters at home and away for years to come.

Oddie's relationship with the club grew beyond the terraces after he was invited to attend matches as a guest of honour. He was welcomed by fans at the Madejski Stadium on several occasions and was even given pride of place among supporters during the FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal at Wembley in 2015.

His chant has been recorded in fan compilations, shared widely online, and even featured on platforms like Spotify. A guest of honour at many matches down the years, he became a much-loved figure at the club. His legacy will live on through his iconic chant among Royals supporters at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.