The passing of Ted, the beloved dog from the BBC show Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, has left fans, friends, and the stars of the show in deep sorrow. Ted, a Patterdale Terrier mix, was more than just a pet; he was a cherished companion to both Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse, becoming a prominent figure on the show and winning the hearts of viewers. While Bob fondly referred to him as “the greatest companion ever,” Paul humorously remarked that Ted had gone to “the heaven of briefcases.” The news of Ted’s death has brought to light the incredible journey of this dog, who began his life as an abandoned animal but later found fame and love on the small screen.
Ted’s story began in the spring of 2013 when he was just about six months old. He was rescued from a dog’s home in Surrey by Lisa Clark, the executive producer of Gone Fishing. Ted’s transition from an abandoned dog to a beloved television star was nothing short of remarkable. Lisa, who adopted Ted, said that he quickly adapted to his new life, and she fondly recalled how he became an integral part of the Gone Fishing family. The show, which follows the adventures of Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse as they fish and reflect on their lives, was a perfect stage for Ted’s charm and personality to shine.
Ted first appeared on the show in Series 3, Episode 3, which aired in 2020. His endearing presence quickly made him a fan favorite, and it wasn’t long before viewers began to look forward to his appearances as much as those of Bob and Paul. The show, which mixes humor, poignant moments, and the beauty of nature, was the perfect setting for Ted, who brought a special warmth and authenticity to every episode. Over the years, Ted became an integral part of the show, with his quirky antics and lovable nature winning over both the cast and the audience.
As his fame grew, so did his recognition. In the Christmas special of 2025, Ted was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, an acknowledgment of his contribution to the show and the joy he brought to viewers. This special moment was a testament to how much Ted had come to mean not just to the stars of the show, but also to the fans who had followed his journey on-screen. Ted’s ability to capture the hearts of audiences was something Paul Whitehouse often joked about, lamenting that Ted seemed to win awards every season, much to his dismay.
Despite the fame, Ted remained a down-to-earth companion. According to Lisa Clark, Ted was a “much-loved family pet” who was also a “treasured companion” to Bob and Paul. Lisa recalled how Ted took his newfound fame in stride, always enjoying his time by the riverbanks, where he would often steal jammy dodgers from Bob and bait from Paul. These little moments of mischief only added to Ted’s charm, making him a beloved part of the show. His playful behavior and loyal companionship brought a sense of joy and lightheartedness to the show, providing a much-needed balance to the more reflective moments between Bob and Paul.
The loss of Ted has been deeply felt by both Bob and Paul, who have expressed their sorrow at the passing of their beloved friend. Bob Mortimer, who shared an especially close bond with Ted, described him as “the best companion and the greatest little chum.” He expressed how much he would miss Ted, saying, “So very, very sad… Lovely Ted, the best companion and the greatest little chum. Going to miss him so much.” For Bob, Ted was more than just a dog; he was a true friend and companion who was with him during some of his most meaningful moments on the show.
Paul Whitehouse also shared his heartache at Ted’s passing, calling him a “species all of his own.” In a typically humorous yet heartfelt tribute, Paul 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.” Paul’s tribute captures the essence of Ted’s role on the show—he wasn’t just a pet, he was a central figure who brought his own unique energy to the series. Ted’s mischievous and lovable personality made him an irreplaceable part of the Gone Fishing family.
Fans of the show will be pleased to know that Ted will make one final appearance in the upcoming ninth series of Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing. This episode will be a bittersweet farewell to the dog who had become such an important part of the show’s charm. Ted’s final appearance will offer fans a chance to say goodbye to the beloved dog who had become a fixture on the show, bringing both joy and humor to the lives of viewers.
In addition to his role on Gone Fishing, Ted also became a published author. Despite being a dog, Ted wrote two best-selling books, A Pawtobiography and Pup Fiction. His literary talents even led to the announcement of a third book, which was due to be released later in 2026. Ted’s ability to capture the imagination of fans went beyond his television appearances, cementing his place as a cultural icon in his own right.
As the Gone Fishing family and Ted’s many fans mourn his passing, there is comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on. Ted will forever be remembered for the joy he brought to the show and the hearts he touched along the way. He may have started life as an abandoned dog, but through his journey on Gone Fishing, he became a beloved companion, a star in his own right, and a cherished member of the Mortimer and Whitehouse family. Ted may have left this world, but his memory will continue to bring smiles to those who knew and loved him.
