Sir David Attenborough is set to celebrate his 100th birthday this Friday, with a special BBC event broadcast from London's Royal Albert Hall. The live show, titled David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth, will honour the legendary broadcaster's life and work documenting the natural world.
National Treasures Gather to Celebrate
The event will feature three national treasures who have worked alongside Sir David: Monty Python's Sir Michael Palin, naturalist and broadcaster Steve Backshall, and nature presenter Chris Packham. They will reflect on Sir David's incredible contribution and legacy. The BBC confirmed that Kirsty Young will host the evening, joined by broadcasters Liz Bonnin, Steve Backshall, Chris Packham, and Michael Palin, who will share their thoughts on the impact of David's work and his unique ability to bring the wonders of the natural world into people's homes.
Musical Performances
Several artists will perform tracks that have appeared in Sir David's most famous documentaries. Dan Smith, frontman of Brit Award-winning band Bastille, will join the BBC Concert Orchestra to perform Pompeii, which featured in Planet Earth III. Icelandic band Sigur Rós will perform Hoppípolla, famously used in promotions for Planet Earth and Planet Earth II. Harpist Francisco Yglesias will also perform.
Evening Highlights
The evening will include some of the most memorable wildlife moments from the BBC's natural history archive, live music by the BBC Concert Orchestra from Sir David's most iconic television series such as Planet Earth, Frozen Planet, and Blue Planet, as well as reflections from public figures and leading voices in conservation and wildlife filmmaking.
The BBC stated: "Bringing together breathtaking wildlife imagery, live orchestral and contemporary music, and contributions from those who have worked alongside David throughout his career and those who feel passionately about the natural world, the programme celebrates not only a broadcasting legend, but a century long relationship between audiences and nature."
Personal Touch
This week, Sir David was photographed enjoying a day out with his daughter Susan in central London, looking spritely just days before his milestone birthday.
David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth will air on Sir David's birthday, May 8, at 8:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
