Sir David Attenborough turns 100 this May, marking a historic milestone for a broadcaster who has shaped and defined science and natural history storytelling for generations. Over seven decades, his distinctive voice and ground-breaking documentaries have brought the wonders of the natural world to our screens, inspiring millions to care more deeply about the planet we share.
To commemorate this occasion, viewers can tune in to BBC Earth on 8th May (Friday) at 8pm for the Sir David Attenborough 100th Birthday Anniversary Special, featuring two new programmes.
In “Wild London”, Attenborough turns his attention closer to home, where he uncovers extraordinary wildlife thriving in unexpected places across the capital. From peregrines nesting on the Houses of Parliament to beavers building homes beside shopping centres, the programme reveals that London’s urban environment is filled with natural wonders to rival any on Earth and inspires viewers to rediscover nature on their own doorsteps.
“Making Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure” tells the remarkable behind-the-scenes story of the groundbreaking 1979 series, “Life on Earth”. Filmed across a three-year journey spanning 40 countries and over 600 species, the programme revisits the making of the series during a pivotal era in television history when global jet travel and colour filming were still in their infancy.
Featuring exclusive interviews with Attenborough and the original crew, the programme captures the challenges they faced – from political unrest to extreme environments – on a production that would go on to redefine natural history television and cement Attenborough’s reputation as the most influential wildlife filmmaker of our time.
Catch the Sir David Attenborough 100th Birthday Anniversary Special on 8th May (Friday) at 8pm on BBC Earth, available on Unifi TV channel 501, Astro channel 554 and BBC Player.
