Watch Sir David Attenborough’s 99 Most Iconic Moments in a 6-Hour Birthday Tribute Video

Sir David Attenborough celebrated his 99th birthday on May 8, 2025, and to honor the occasion, BBC Earth released a six-hour video compilation showcasing the legendary broadcaster, biologist, and natural historian’s 99 most iconic moments. From nail-biting hunts to touching moments between animals in the wild, the archival footage is a powerful tribute to Attenborough’s extraordinary work spanning over seven decades.

The captivating collection showcases Attenborough’s unmistakable ability to blend emotion and education in storytelling. From baby iguanas and gray whales to polar bears, Atlantic puffins, bison, dolphins, and even tiny tadpoles, creatures of all kinds are captured as they navigate life in the wild.

Attenborough first appeared on the BBC over 70 years ago with Zoo Quest in 1954—a series that followed expeditions to film wild animals in their natural habitats, long before it was common on TV. Since then, Attenborough has become arguably the most familiar face and voice in nature broadcasting, appearing in over 100 documentaries. He’s best known for his nine-part series The Life Collection, as well as his unforgettable narration in BBC classics like Wildlife on One, Blue Planet, and Planet Earth.

Attenborough’s lifelong commitment to capturing extraordinary wildlife moments has inspired generations of viewers and sparked a global passion for conservation. Most recently, Attenborough has been urging humanity to take responsibility for climate change and other environmental challenges, emphasizing that positive change is still possible. His Netflix documentary A Life on Our Planet, along with his new film Ocean, highlight the urgent need to protect and restore the natural world.

Attenborough has received numerous honors for his contributions to television and conservation, including being knighted twice—most recently in 2022 with one of Britain’s highest honors, the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George. Over his remarkable career, he’s also had several species named after him, such as a rare South American butterfly (Euptychia attenboroughi) and a newly discovered species of prehistoric bird called Imparavis attenboroughi, which means “Attenborough’s strange bird” in Latin.

Even in his later years, Attenborough remains dedicated to educating and inspiring audiences globally through his ongoing work. There’s no doubt that his new film Ocean will bring even more legendary moments to the screen.

Check out the 99 Iconic Moments From Sir David Attenborough below.

In honor of Sir David Attenborough's 99th birthday, BBC Earth released a six-hour video showcasing his 99 most iconic moments.

David Attenborough: Instagram | YouTube
BBC Earth: Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

Source: 99 Iconic Moments From Sir David Attenborough | BBC Earth

Related Articles:

5-Year-Old Sir David Attenborough Fan Draws 99 Animals To Celebrate the Naturalist’s 99th Birthday

Oil Painting of Sir David Attenborough Is Revealed in Celebration of His 40 Years of Work

David Attenborough’s ‘Ocean’ Film Explores the Beauty and Fragility of Life Beneath the Waves

Newly Discovered Bird Species Named After David Attenborough Sheds Light on Avian Evolution

Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
Become a
My Modern Met Member
As a member, you'll join us in our effort to support the arts.
Become a Member
Explore member benefits

Sponsored Content