Sir David Attenborough turned 100 years old on May 8, 2026, marking the milestone with a gala at the Royal Albert Hall and the announcement that he will narrate Blue Planet III. To mark the occasion, scientists also named a newly discovered Chilean wasp species, Attenboroughnculus tau, in his honor.
On Fresh Air, David Bianculli reflected on the broadcaster's massive legacy, noting that "For more than 70 years, David Attenborough has been exploring the planet and its living inhabitants, filming and marveling at a world full of natural treasures. In the process, he's become a natural treasure himself."
The sentiment across the media landscape remains universally celebratory. Sam Briger highlighted the timing of the coverage, confirming that "David Bianculli reviews the new David Attenborough special honoring his 100th birthday, featuring his greatest adventures." There is no dissent in the critical community; Attenborough is being treated as an irreplaceable cultural institution as he prepares to lend his voice to yet another series.
