David Attenborough retrospective marks his 100th birthday
Updated
Updated · CNN · May 8
David Attenborough retrospective marks his 100th birthday
10 articles · Updated · CNN · May 8
The CNN look back traces his century from 1954's Zoo Quest to Netflix's Our Planet, and notes a television career spanning more than seven decades.
It highlights milestones including running BBC2 from 1965, filming first contact with New Guinea's Biami tribe, and his celebrated 1978 encounter with gorillas in Rwanda.
The retrospective also recalls Emmy and BAFTA wins, two knighthoods, species named after him and his later role warning about climate change and backing conservation efforts such as Earthshot.
Did Attenborough's beautiful films inadvertently delay climate action by hiding the planet's fragility for decades?
How did a naturalist become more influential on global climate policy than most world leaders?
Sir David Attenborough at 100: Transforming Nature Documentary into a Global Climate Movement
Overview
The centenary celebration of Sir David Attenborough in May 2026 highlights his extraordinary legacy as a pioneering broadcaster and environmental advocate. Starting with a live BBC event and new documentaries, the week honors his innovative storytelling that blends rigorous science with emotional connection. His shift from celebrating nature to urgent environmental warnings, inspired by 2004 climate data, led to impactful works like Blue Planet II, which sparked global movements against plastic pollution. Embracing modern platforms expanded his reach, while his advocacy earned him top honors, including the UN Champions of the Earth Award. Attenborough’s enduring influence inspires hope and action for the planet’s future.