Sir David Attenborough marked his centenary with a special event at London's Royal Albert Hall, broadcast live on BBC One. The naturalist expressed gratitude for the overwhelming birthday greetings he received from people of all ages. According to The Guardian, the Natural History Museum named a newly discovered species of parasitic wasp Attenboroughnculus tau in his honor and is running an immersive exhibition until August.
Key Takeaways
Sir David Attenborough celebrated his 100th birthday on May 8 with a live event at London's Royal Albert Hall, broadcast on BBC One. Tributes poured in from various fields, highlighting his influence on wildlife broadcasting and environmental advocacy.
- Sir David Attenborough marked his centenary with a special event at the Royal Albert Hall
- The Natural History Museum named a new species of parasitic wasp after him
- Tributes highlighted his role as an ambassador for life on Earth and his impact on nature documentaries
- Special broadcasts and events celebrated his milestone, including a 90-minute TV special aired by the BBC
The event featured music from Attenborough's programs and stories from public figures and advocates for nature. In an audio message released by the BBC, he said he had been 'completely overwhelmed' by messages from preschool groups to care home residents, as reported by Reuters. He thanked those who sent greetings and wished anyone planning events to mark his milestone 'a very happy day.'
Tributes poured in from various fields, with figures like Chris Packham calling him 'the greatest living broadcaster' and an ambassador for life on Earth. The actor Ian McKellen praised Attenborough's ability to make serious programs accessible to a popular audience. Despite his humility about being labeled a 'national treasure,' friends describe him as a public servant dedicated to being the voice for nature.
Attenborough's centenary is being celebrated with special broadcasts on the BBC, including his new series Secret Garden. Events at museums, nature walks, and tree planting are also part of the festivities. The BBC aired a 90-minute TV special David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth, hosted by Kirsty Young from Royal Albert Hall in London.
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