David Attenborough ‘Overwhelmed’ By Love Shown Ahead Of 100th Birthday

Broadcasting legend and all-round national treasure Sir David Attenborough is now 100 years old, as of Friday.

Ahead of the big day, the BBC unveiled big plans to mark the centenary birthday of one of its most beloved stars, with Sir David admitting he was “overwhelmed” by the love that he’d been shown in the lead-up to his birthday.

“I had rather thought that I would celebrate my 100th birthday quietly, but it seems that many of you have had other ideas,” Sir David quipped in a recorded message shared by the BBC on Thursday.

He continued: “I have been completely overwhelmed by birthday greetings, from pre-school groups to care home residents, and countless individuals and families of all ages.

Sir David noted that while he “can’t reply to each of you separately”, he wanted to “thank you all most sincerely for your kind messages, and wish those of you who have planned your own local events”:

“Have a very happy day,” he added.

Initially known for his work behind the scenes at the BBC, implementing changes that are still commonplace today, Sir David is now renowned for his on-camera appearances in nature shows like Planet Earth and Blue Planet.

He’s also outspoken on issues like climate change and the environment, which have informed his work in his later years.

Over the years, Sir David has won multiple Baftas and Emmys for his on-screen work, and is one of only a few public figures to have received a second knighthood, being appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael And St George by Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 for his services to television and conservation.

Sir David’s most recent on-screen work has included the BBC series Secret Garden, which came to an end last week, and Wild London, exploring the natural world in the UK capital, in addition to collaborations with both Netflix and Apple TV+.