Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Cat famous for appearing in opening credits of Antiques Roadshow dies

‘The pleasure he gave us is beyond measure,’ wrote antiques expert Marc Allum

Louis Chilton
Tuesday 07 March 2023 17:09 GMT
Comments
Antiques Roadshow: Guest shows off rare 'terrifying' dolls

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Minou, the cat known for appearing in the opening credits of Antiques Roadshow, has died.

At the start of each episode of the popular BBC reality series, the animal could be seen walking across the screen, brushing against a vase.

Minou, in fact, belonged to antique expert Marc Allum, who has appeared as a specialist on Antiques Roadshow since 1998.

Allum revealed that Minou had been euthanised by a vet on 2 March amid a series of health problems.

In a social media post announcing the news, he shared a heartfelt tribute to the pet.

Alongside a photograph of Minou, he wrote: “ For almost 17 years this beautiful creature has been a central part of our lives. Today we had to say goodbye to Minou.

“The pleasure he gave us is beyond measure. We will miss him soooo much but he will still pop up on your screens on the titles of @BBC_ARoadshow. Such a star!”

In a later tweet, the Antiques Roadshow specialist wrote: “He was a extremely bright. He did what he liked really and we smiled as he did it… but he was always there butting his head against my chin.”

Friends and fans of the series shared condolences over the news.

Last week, Camilla, the Queen Consort, had two personal items examined by Antiques Roadshow in a special episode of the series.

The programme, filmed in Cornwall at the Eden Project last September, saw Camilla interact with the Roadshow team and participate in a “Mystery Object” game.

Minou the cat, as seen in the opening credits for ‘Antiques Roadshow'
Minou the cat, as seen in the opening credits for ‘Antiques Roadshow' (BBC)

Presenter Fiona Bruce said: “The Queen Consort was just terrific fun. She put everyone at ease and was keen to take part in the programme and chat to everyone.

“The members of the public that came along with their items that day got a bit more than they bargained for as they had no idea The Queen Consort was coming!

Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled

Try for free
Apple TV+ logo

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days

New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled

Try for free

“Her Majesty got stuck into our Antiques Roadshow games, though Guess The Mystery Object had us both stumped.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in