Sir David Attenborough has cancelled his upcoming Australian tour to undergo heart surgery in London. The 87-year-old broadcaster, who was scheduled to begin the tour next week, has been advised by his cardiologist that he urgently needs a pacemaker.
Tour organisers Lateral Events confirmed the cancellation, stating that Sir David expressed extreme disappointment. He had been looking forward to returning to Australia and hopes to reschedule the tour in the near future. The 'Life on Earth' events were planned for Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne starting 11 June.
A BBC press officer confirmed the surgery took place on Tuesday. Danny Cohen, the corporation's director of television, said: 'We all wish Sir David a full and strong recovery.'
The news coincides with Sir David's appearance on a new song protesting against planned badger culls. The track, 'Badger Swagger', was created by former Queen guitarist Brian May and also features Slash and rapper Sonny Green.
