BBC to celebrate David Attenborough’s centenary with 100 Years on Planet Earth special
Royal Albert Hall, live orchestra and a century of jaw‑dropping wildlife
Last updated 1 day ago
David Attenborough is turning 100, and the BBC is marking the milestone with a live celebration that’s anything but low‑key. David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth gathers famous faces, a full orchestra and some of the most unforgettable wildlife clips ever seen on television.
From the Royal Albert Hall to your living room, this is a one‑night‑only salute to a broadcasting legend – and the natural world he’s spent a lifetime revealing.
What will the special be about?
David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth is a ninety‑minute live event honouring one of the most influential figures in broadcasting and natural history storytelling. Presented by Kirsty Young from London’s Royal Albert Hall, it promises an “extraordinary journey” through a century of exploration and discovery, all viewed through the prism of David’s remarkable life and work.
The evening will mix standout wildlife moments from the BBC’s natural history archive with live music from the BBC Concert Orchestra. Expect iconic sequences from series such as Planet Earth, Blue Planet and Frozen Planet, plus reflections from guests including Liz Bonnin, Steve Backshall, Chris Packham and Michael Palin on David’s impact and legacy.
Host Kirsty Young said of the upcoming event: “Sir David’s gift to the world has been a life spent exquisitely revealing Earth’s wonders to us all. The very least he deserves is a big 100th birthday bash at the Royal Albert Hall! I’m very happy indeed, as the host, to be able to invite everyone to the party.”
When will it air?
The special will air on David’s actual 100th birthday - Friday 8th May at 8.30pm. It runs for ninety minutes, giving viewers a full primetime deep dive into his decades of work and the unforgettable moments that changed how we see the natural world.
Where can I watch the live show?
You can watch David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth on BBC One and on BBC iPlayer.
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