David Attenborough is celebrating his 99th birthday on May 8, 2025, with the release of his new documentary, Ocean, which serves as a passionate call to action regarding the health of the planet's oceans.
Attenborough, whose voice has narrated nature documentaries for over seven decades, delivers a powerful message in this film, highlighting both the beauty of marine ecosystems and the dire threats they face. "One could spend days swimming above it and never tire of the colours, the movement, the interactions; it's life at its most mesmerising," he reflects on coral reefs in the documentary.
However, the film takes a stark turn, showcasing the devastating impact of human activities on the ocean. Attenborough describes the aftermath of bottom trawling, a destructive fishing practice that decimates marine life and disrupts ecosystems. "In this film, we make wonderful discoveries, uncover why our ocean is in such poor health and, perhaps most importantly, show how it can bounce back to life,” he states.
Born in Isleworth, Middlesex, in 1926, Attenborough has witnessed profound changes in the natural world throughout his lifetime. He recalls how the perception of the ocean has evolved from a vast, untamed wilderness to a critical environment that requires protection. "When I first saw the sea as a young boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity. But now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true," he reflects.
Attenborough's career began in 1954 with the BBC series Zoo Quest, which marked the start of his journey as a naturalist and broadcaster. His work has garnered numerous accolades, including three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Narration and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II. He has become synonymous with wildlife documentaries, captivating audiences with his engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of nature.
In Ocean, Attenborough emphasizes the importance of the ocean in regulating the planet's climate, noting that ocean plankton removes nearly a third of the carbon emissions produced by humans. He passionately advocates for the protection of marine environments, stating, "Three billion people rely on our ocean for food. But ships sent by a few wealthy nations are starving coastal communities of the food source they have relied on for millennia. This is modern colonialism at sea."
The documentary also highlights the alarming statistic that less than 3% of the ocean is fully protected. Attenborough urges viewers to recognize the urgent need for conservation efforts, saying, "If I asked you, how much of the ocean was fully protected, what would you say? 20 percent? At least 10, surely? The answer is less than 3 percent. In practical terms, none of it."
Despite the grim realities outlined in the film, Attenborough maintains a sense of hope, drawing on examples of successful conservation efforts. He recalls the international ban on commercial whaling enacted in 1986, which led to a significant rebound in whale populations. "I remember thinking it was over. There was no way back; we had lost the great whales. And yet, they returned. If we leave them alone, nature finds a way to heal its wounds," he reflects.
Attenborough's message is one of urgency and action, particularly as the documentary coincides with the upcoming United Nations Ocean Conference in June 2025. He hopes that Ocean will inspire governments and citizens alike to take meaningful steps toward protecting marine ecosystems. "It is my great hope that we all come to see the ocean, not as a dark and distant place with little relevance to our lives on land, but as the lifeblood of our home," he asserts.
The film premiered at the Royal Festival Hall in London on May 6, attended by notable figures including King Charles and Prince William, who praised Attenborough's lifelong dedication to environmental advocacy. Prince William stated, "As he turns 99 today, in his new film, Attenborough has once again reminded us of the need to protect natural habitats - this time those beneath the ocean."
Attenborough's commitment to educating the public about environmental issues has left a lasting legacy, as noted by Mike Gunton, creative director at BBC Studios Natural History Unit. Gunton remarked, "Each generation has its own kind of personal legacy from him, and that's remarkable. But also, there's a broader, I suppose, global legacy, which I think is that he has shown us wonders, he's helped us understand wonders, and he's encouraged us to protect these wonders."
As Attenborough approaches his 100th birthday, his passion for the ocean and its ecosystems remains undiminished. He encourages viewers to take action, emphasizing that the ocean can recover if given the chance. "If we just let nature take its course, the sea will save itself. If we save the sea, we save our world," he concludes.
Ocean is currently in cinemas and will be available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu starting June 8, 2025, coinciding with World Oceans Day. The film aims to inspire future generations to become stewards of the ocean, highlighting the critical role marine environments play in sustaining life on Earth.
