David Attenborough has worked for the BBC since the 1940’s (Image: Getty)
has graced our screens since the 1940’s, wooing audiences with his captivating and calming voice. The environmental expert, activist, presenter and all-round national treasure is best known for presenting a number of insightful documentaries about the world of nature.
Everyone in Britain is familiar with the 98-year-old TV veteran, but to many he would still be unrecognisable in his younger days. He began his career working in the navy shortly after university, before eventually leaving in 1949.
Just a year later, applied for a job at the working in radio. Three years after that, he finally landed a job at the broadcasting house and become controller of Two by 1965.
Following that he went on to produce and present the Life documentary series, including Life on Earth and The Living Planet. In later years, he is on TV just as much.
Some of his best known works include The Blue Planet (2001) Planet Earth (2006) and Frozen Planet (2011). In recent years, as well as working for the , David has also worked with streaming giants like Disney+ and meaning that his programmes have reached countries all over the world.
David Attenborough with a bear cub in 1956 (Image: Getty)
While Attenborough’s earlier work focused primarily on the wonders of the natural world, his later work has been more vocal in support of environmental causes.
Off-screen, David is a well-accomplished author having written over 25 books and contributed to well-known titles such as Planet Earth, Frozen Planet, Africa and other series he has narrated.
Speaking about his career, in September 2013, he commented: “If I was earning my money by hewing coal I would be very glad indeed to stop. But I’m not. I’m swanning round the world looking at the most fabulously interesting things. Such good fortune.”
Don’t miss… [UPDATE]
The presenter was a good looking lad in his youth (Image: Getty Images)
Attenborough’s contribution to broadcasting and wildlife film-making has brought him international recognition. He was knighted in 1985 as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours for that year.
By January 2013, Attenborough had collected 32 honorary degrees from British universities – more than any other person.
Attenborough is also recognised by Guinness World Records as having the longest career as a natural historian and presenter in television.