Sir David Attenborough has said he was 'completely overwhelmed' by the 'kind' messages he has received ahead of his 100th birthday. The broadcaster had anticipated a 'quiet' celebration for his centenary on Friday, May 8, but acknowledged that fans 'had other ideas'.
In a recorded audio message shared the night before his birthday, Sir David expressed his gratitude: “I had rather thought that I would celebrate my 100th birthday quietly, but it seems that many of you have had other ideas. I’ve been completely overwhelmed by birthday greetings from pre-school groups to care home residents and countless individuals and families of all ages. I simply can’t reply to each of you all separately, but I would like to thank you all most sincerely for your kind messages. I wish those of you who have planned your own local events tomorrow a very happy day.”
One of the many events marking the occasion is a celebration at the Royal Albert Hall, featuring music from his programmes, along with stories and reflections from public figures and leading advocates for the natural world. This event will be broadcast on BBC One. Additionally, the Natural History Museum’s immersive exhibition presented by Sir David will be adapted for the occasion. 'Our Story With David Attenborough' will be shown at Outernet London in Tottenham Court Road from May 8, taking viewers through the history of people and the Earth before presenting a vision of London’s future.
Animal charity Peta has also marked the milestone by naming a bull after the broadcaster. Sir Attenbullock was among the first animals rescued through Peta India’s Delhi mechanisation project.
