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David Attenborough and the evolution of nature documentaries

David Attenborough and the evolution of nature documentaries

As David Attenborough marks his 100th birthday, David Hendy explores how the documentary-maker and broadcaster has shaped our view of the natural world

Matt Elton

Published: May 8, 2026 at 11:16 AM

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This May marks the 100th birthday of leading British documentary-maker and natural historian David Attenborough. But what's the longer history of wildlife broadcasting? What inspired Attenborough to report back from the frontlines of the natural world? And how has he shaped our understanding of the climate crisis?

Matt Elton spoke to media and cultural historian David Hendy to find out.

Authors

Matt EltonPodcast editor

Matt Elton is the podcast editor at HistoryExtra