Simon Cowell obit

Wildlife SOS' Simon Cowell dies aged 72 after 'brave battle with cancer'

Wildlife SOS star Simon Cowell has died following a 'brave battle with cancer' it has been confirmed by his loved ones after he received a terminal diagnosis 

He was not on the list.

Wildlife SOS presenter Simon Cowell MBE has died.

The legendary broadcaster was surrounded by his family when he passed away over the weekend. In June 2022, Simon was diagnosed with an aggressive and terminal form of lung cancer. Sadly, two years later in May of this year, it was announced that his cancer had progressed to several organs and he was given a prognosis of just weeks.

A statement on behalf of the Wildlife Aid Foundation said: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Cowell MBE, conservationist, founder and CEO of the Wildlife Aid Foundation and presenter of Wildlife SOS. Simon passed away peacefully on Sunday (June 9) after a brave battle with cancer, surrounded by his daughters, his partner and his dogs. Simon was one of the UK’s most respected conservationists and a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and environmental causes.

"He dedicated his life to British wildlife and worked tirelessly to ensure countless injured and orphaned animals were given a second chance in the wild through rescue, clinical treatment, and rehabilitation. He campaigned relentlessly to raise awareness of the plight of wildlife and the importance of all species."

Tributes have since poured in on social media, with one person writing: "A fabulous man who will be very much missed. I volunteered at WAF for about 15 years until I moved to Devon. My love to his family. He leaves a great legacy."

"So sorry for Simon's loss to his family and friends, and to wildlife. Long may his legacy continue. @BBCSpringwatch #Springwatch He more than deserves a mention this week," said a second. Meanwhile, a third typed: "An amazing, beautiful and totally unique man who worked tirelessly for wildlife - with love, humour and compassion. To say he'll be missed is the hugest understatement. Rest well Simon - and I hope every animal you rescued or saved is waiting to greet you."

Another added: "Absolutely saddened to hear of Simon's passing. We knew it wouldn't be long but of course hoped for miracle for him. Simon was and always will be an inspiration to myself and to so many others in the quest to save the world's wildlife. Our hearts go out to all of you."

His last wish, which has been shared on social media saw Simon branded a former "city slicker", adding: "Having spent his life helping others, Simon now needs you. Wildlife Aid, currently, operates from Simon's home. But, when he's gone, the clock starts ticking for the charity to relocate. Will you grant Simon's Last Wish... To build a new home for WAF to ensure his legacy... and theirs?

Following a self-described nervous breakdown in 1994, Simon decided to offer "all his time" to the Wildlife Aid charity and also went on to campaign for PETA. His programme, Wildlife SOS has been running since 1996, produced by his own company, Wild Productions. In 2013, before it eventually moved online in 2014.

The conservationist, television presenter, and author best known for hosting the Animal Planet documentary series Wildlife SOS from 1996–2014. He was the founder of Wildlife Aid Foundation, originally titled Wildlife Aid, which is a charitable organization dedicated to the "rescue, rehabilitation, and release of British wildlife"