Viewers have been left in tears just minutes into a BBC special honouring Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday. The national treasure was celebrated with a live event at the Royal Albert Hall, reflecting on his extraordinary life and career.
Star-Studded Celebration
Hosted by Kirsty Young, the one-off special featured guests including Chris Packham and Bastille on stage. Sir David himself was in the audience, seated beside Prince William, as fans rushed to send birthday wishes on social media.
One viewer wrote: "Oh god didn't even make it through the opening segment before blubbing. Am going to need a box of tissues for this." Another added: "Why am I getting emotional already." A third fan said: "Here to watch the tribute to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday. He is honestly the most remarkable man."
Emotional Tributes
Someone else shared: "Watching BBC coverage of Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday & I'm honestly moved to tears. What an extraordinary life. He brought the magic of the natural world, our vast oceans, & the entire planet right into our living rooms. A true gift, God bless you."
Many viewers also commented on Sir David's appearance after he stood up from his seat to acknowledge the standing ovation from the live audience. "He looks so well for 100 years old," one person remarked. Another noted: "How quick was Dave out of that seat!!!!"
Viewers React to Attenborough's Vitality
"What a man. 100!" exclaimed one viewer, while another wrote: "Crying at this already seeing David in the audience happy 100th sir David Attenborough he looks amazing." "Wow! At 100 years old, David Attenborough looks incredible!" echoed another. Someone else added: "I honestly didn't think he'd be at this special concert. He's looking incredible though. Definitely doesn't look 100!"
BBC's Description of the Event
Earlier, the BBC had teased: "On the day of Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday, this unmissable event honours one of the most influential figures in broadcasting and natural history storytelling. Broadcast from the Royal Albert Hall in London, this 90-minute special celebrates Sir David's groundbreaking career, taking audiences on an extraordinary journey through a century of exploration and discovery in the natural world, seen through the prism of Sir David's remarkable life and work."
The programme combined memorable wildlife moments from the BBC's natural history archive with live music from Sir David's most iconic series, alongside reflections from public figures and leading conservationists. Accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra, the special featured music from landmark series including Planet Earth, Blue Planet, and Frozen Planet.
David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
