LONDON - Sir David Attenborough turned 100 on Friday, saying he was "completely overwhelmed" by the global outpouring of birthday greetings honoring his seven-decade career in wildlife broadcasting.
In an audio message released by the BBC, Attenborough thanked well-wishers from preschool groups to care home residents. "I had rather thought that I would celebrate my 100th birthday quietly, but it seems that many of you have had other ideas," he said.
Attenborough's admirers include Britain's royal family, former U.S. President Barack Obama, and pop star Billie Eilish. The late Queen Elizabeth described his ability to communicate the beauty and vulnerability of the natural environment as "unequalled."
His landmark series, including the 1979 "Life on Earth" and 2017's "Blue Planet 2," have shaped public understanding of nature and conservation. "Blue Planet 2" exposed the scourge of plastic in the ocean, leading to British government and retail measures to reduce plastic use.
Attenborough's 2012 segment on "Lonesome George," the last Pinta Island tortoise, highlighted species extinction. "He's focused the attention of the world on the fragility of our environment," Attenborough said at the time.
Despite being named the greatest living British cultural icon, those close to him say he rejects the "national treasure" label. "He feels that he had the unique opportunity to be the voice for nature," said producer Mike Gunton.
BBC special broadcasts and events, including the new series "Secret Garden," mark the milestone. Attenborough remains active in program-making, driven by enduring curiosity.
Born May 8, 1926, Attenborough rose from collecting fossils as a child to hosting "Zoo Quest" in 1954. "Life on Earth" made him a household name at age 52. Reflecting on environmental urgency, he once asked, "How could I look my grandchildren in the eye and say I knew what was happening to the world and did nothing?"