Award-winning biologist, bestselling author, and iconic broadcaster, Sir David Attenborough has become a centenarian today. The vast majority of us have never known life without his trademark awestruck narration emanating out of our televisions, reports BritPanorama.
For decades, he has introduced audiences to wildlife wonders while passionately advocating for environmental preservation. His wise face and reassuring voice have made him a beloved figure, often considered a surrogate grandfather to the nation. Few individuals have influenced our perception of the planet as profoundly as Attenborough has.
Even at the remarkable age of 100, the tireless broadcaster continues to inspire and enlighten. This year, he has already presented three new projects, and tonight (8.30pm, BBC One), Kirsty Wark will host a star-studded event live from the Royal Albert Hall, celebrating Attenborough’s illustrious career, soundtracked by the BBC Concert Orchestra.
In tribute to his lifetime of work, we reflect on some of the most memorable moments from his illustrious broadcasting career, showcasing not only his adventurous spirit but also the profound connection he has fostered with wildlife across the globe.
Groomed by a gorilla
Life on Earth, 1979
One of Attenborough’s most famous moments transpired in Rwanda, where he came face-to-face with a female mountain gorilla. The next day, she recognised him and approached to groom and play with him, all while he attempted to suppress laughter as two baby gorillas removed his shoes. Initially, this magical moment almost went unrecorded, as the cameraman hesitated over the film use and a producer suggested omitting it due to a deviation from the script. Thankfully, Attenborough’s ad-libbed line about mutual understanding with gorillas was memorable enough to secure its inclusion.
Face-to-face with a fox cub
Wild London, 2026
This year, Attenborough’s focus shifted closer to home with the BBC series Wild London. One standout moment featured him interacting with a playful family of urban foxes on a Tottenham allotment. He remarked on the thrill of witnessing a wild fox emerge from the bushes, capturing the hearts of both viewers and the curious creatures themselves.
Greeting a cannibal tribe
Zoo Quest, 1957
In a striking demonstration of boldness, Attenborough ventured into Papua New Guinea’s jungle in one of his early wildlife films, encountering a tribe of reclusive cannibals. Recalling the moment on Michael Parkinson’s chat show, he shared how he spotted a glint of a knife and felt alarmed as the tribesmen rushed toward him. Yet, he walked boldly amongst them, extending his hand and greeting them warmly—a moment that showcased both his fearlessness and his belief in global connection.
Iguanas vs racer snakes
Planet Earth II, 2017
In a thrilling scene, a freshly hatched marine iguana desperately fled from Galapagos racer snakes, showcasing the unfaltering circle of life. Although some controversy arose regarding the editing of the footage from multiple takes, the tension and beauty of the moment remained captivating as Attenborough’s narration drew viewers into the drama.
Saying ‘boo’ to a sloth
The Life of Mammals, 2002
In the Costa Rican rainforest, Attenborough playfully startled a sloth with a soft “boo,” demonstrating the gentle charm of his presenting style. As he recounted the creature’s behaviour, he highlighted its slow lifestyle, prompting laughter and reflecting on the intrinsic connection between himself and the animal kingdom.
Strolling with the Queen
The Queen’s Green Planet, 2018
This one-off BBC documentary captured Attenborough and the late Queen strolling through the gardens of Buckingham Palace, discussing the Queen’s ambitious project to create a global network of protected forests. Their conversation, filled with warmth and laughter, underscored the bond between nature and leadership.
Feathered impressionist
The Life of Birds, 1998
One unforgettable moment occurred when a lyrebird mimicked the sounds of everyday life, including a chainsaw, causing a poignant reflection on habitat destruction. This clip was later voted as one of the best Attenborough moments of all time, demonstrating his ability to blend entertainment with awareness.
Blue whale up close
The Life of Mammals, 2002
Another significant encounter saw Attenborough marvel at a blue whale surfacing beside his small boat, illustrating the scale and majesty of the marine world. His astonishment reaffirmed his lifelong dedication to wildlife and the stories it tells.
Rugby-tackled by a capercaillie
The Life of Birds, 1998
In a light-hearted moment, Attenborough was playfully charged by a capercaillie in Highland forests, showcasing the humor and unpredictability of wildlife interactions. This scene remains one of the highlights of his broadcasting career.
Covered in red crabs
The Trials of Life, 1990
On Christmas Island, Attenborough calmly navigated through an ocean of crabs during their spawning season, all while maintaining composure and professionalism. His ability to remain unfazed by such spectacles underscored his extraordinary career.
Laying with a leatherback turtle
Blue Planet II, 2017
On a Trinidadian beach, Attenborough collaborated with a local conservationist to spotlight the importance of preserving endangered leatherback turtles. His gentle interactions with these magnificent creatures reflected his lifelong commitment to conservation.
Base-jumping baby geese
Life Story, 2014
In a heart-wrenching sequence, Attenborough narrated the perilous journey of barnacle goslings leaping from immense heights to reach their mother. This gripping story highlights the often grim realities of survival in the wild.
Catching a python
Zoo Quest, 1956
In a throwback to earlier wildlife television, a young Attenborough climbed to catch a Burmese python, showcasing both the thrill of exploration and the less stringent safety measures of the time. The encounter resonated with viewers, capturing childhood adventures and the spirit of curiosity.
Summoning a woodpecker
The Life of Birds, 1998
In a clever display of natural curiosity, Attenborough imitated a woodpecker’s call, causing a male bird to respond immediately. This interaction demonstrated his immersive presenting style, bridging the gap between humanity and nature.
A king among penguins
Life in the Freezer, 1993
Attenborough found himself in the midst of 600,000 king penguins in Antarctica during a groundbreaking episode, exemplifying his commitment to capturing the essence of wildlife in its natural environment.
Bonding with a blind baby rhino
Africa, 2013
In another touching scene, Attenborough interacted with a blind baby rhinoceros named Nicki, sharing the hope that a potential cataract operation could restore the animal’s sight. This intimate moment encapsulated the passion he has for wildlife conservation.
‘David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth’ is on tonight at 8.30pm on BBC One.
