David Attenborough

David Attenborough (born 8 May 1926) is a British broadcaster and natural historian. He is best known for writing and presenting, in conjunction with the BBC Natural History Unit, the nine natural history documentary series forming the Life Collection that together constitute a comprehensive survey of animal and plant life on Earth.

Early life

Attenborough was born in Isleworth, West London, but grew up in College House on the campus of the University College, Leicester, where his father, Frederick, was principal. He is the middle of three sons, and the only surviving child among them.

Career

Attenborough's career as the face and voice of natural history programmes has endured for more than 60 years. His first job, after returning from National Service, was editing children's science textbooks. He soon joined the BBC, initially at the BBC Radio station, then later moved to the television side. His association with natural history programmes began when he produced and presented the three-part series Animal Patterns.

Attenborough is perhaps best known for his Life Collection, which includes Life on Earth, The Living Planet, The Trials of Life, Life in the Freezer, The Private Life of Plants, The Life of Birds, The Life of Mammals, Life in the Undergrowth and Life in Cold Blood.

Personal life

Attenborough married Jane Elizabeth Ebsworth Oriel in 1950 and they had two children. Jane passed away in 1997. Attenborough is a lifelong supporter of the Leicester City Football Club.

Honours and recognition

Attenborough's contribution to broadcasting and wildlife film-making has brought him international recognition. He has been awarded honorary degrees from many universities across the world and is patron of the World Land Trust, which buys rain forest and other lands to preserve them and the animals that live there.

See also

• BBC Natural History Unit
• Natural history
• Wildlife documentary

External links

• BBC - David Attenborough