Link to newsround

New shows to celebrate David Attenborough's 100th birthday on way

sir David Attenborough sitting in a chair

Sir David Attenborough will turn 100 this year.

The legendary presenter and naturalist will celebrate his 100th birthday on 8 May 2026.

To mark the huge milestone, the BBC are releasing a bunch of new programmes, and bringing back some of his classic nature shows in a special week-long celebration.

Sir David first appeared on our screens more than 70 years ago, and has since become one of the greatest and most-well known nature broadcasters of our time.

He has had a huge impact on the natural world and has played a significant role in inspiring the next generations of conservationists.

David Attenborough answers kids' questions (from 2020)

"It's impossible to overstate what Sir David Attenborough has given us." said Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual at the BBC.

"His programmes have not only defined Science and Natural History broadcasting, but they have also changed how we see our planet and our place within it.

This special week is a celebration of an extraordinary milestone, and of a body of work that continues to inspire awe, curiosity and care for the natural world.

It's also a moment for all of us at the BBC to say thank you to David — for his generosity, for his brilliance, and for a lifetime spent bringing the wonders of nature into our homes." he said.

What new shows are coming?

sir David in a flowery field Plimsoll Productions

In Secret Gardens - Sir David will be taking a closer look at the incredible wildlife in Britain's backyards.

Three new shows are on their way as part of the celebrations.

The first is a show called Making Life on Earth: Attenborough's Greatest Adventure - which is about the making of the show 'Life on Earth', and features new interviews with David and the original production team who made the ground-breaking nature TV programme.

A new series presented by Sir David is also on its way, named: Secret Garden.

The show takes a closer look at the hidden worlds and remarkable wildlife in Britain's gardens.

A celebratory live event called David Attenborough's 100 Years on Planet Earth is also on its way.

The event will take place at the Royal Albert Hall, and will have performances from the BBC Concert Orchestra and other special guests.

What classic shows are returning?

young david attenborough with a cockatoo parrot meeting king chales III and his sister as children.

Do you recognise these children? It's King Charles III and his sister Princess Anne! As part of Sir David's TV programme Zoo quest he met the young royal children.

Episodes from some of Attenborough's most popular series, will be airing on TV as part of the week-long birthday celebrations.

Including Planet Earth II; Seven Worlds, One Planet; Blue Planet II; Planet Earth III; Frozen Planet II; and his most recent film Wild London.

A special collection of more than 40 series presented by David, will also be available on on BBC iPlayer, celebrating his incredible work over the years.

There, people will be able to watch his first ever series from 1954 - Zoo Quest - to his most recent series including Kingdom, Parenthood and Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster.