The world’s greatest naturalist turns 100: 10 people on working with Sir David Attenborough

While his presenting career began in the 1950s as host of Zoo Quest—broadcast in black-and-white, but later found to have been filmed in color—Sir David had a long broadcasting career behind the scenes too, before his now-beloved whispering voice became a living room legend. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, he was a senior manager at the BBC, controller of BBC Two, and director of programming for BBC Television.

And while we associate him best with wildlife documentaries, quite justifiably given the sheer number he has worked on, Sir David’s work is inextricably linked with wider environmental causes in our world. From biodiversity restoration and population growth to climate crisis, renewable energy and even decreasing our meat consumption, he has become increasingly vocal on the issues that threaten our planet.

It’s said Sir David Attenborough does not particularly care for the term ‘national treasure’ (much less ‘international treasure’), but the truth is, his programs, campaigns and enthusiasm for the natural world have inspired, educated and entertained so many people around the globe, be it kickstarting a passion for conservation, booking a wildlife vacation, or pursuing long-term careers, campaigns and projects to protect the natural world.

We asked 10 people who have met and worked with Sir David how this collaboration has shaped their own work and mindsets. We would especially like to mention the late, great Doug Allan OBE, wildlife cameraman extraordinaire who worked with Sir David on numerous occasions, who sadly passed away in Nepal on April 8th 2026. Rest in peace.

And from us all at Adventure.com, a very happy birthday, Sir David Attenborough.