On May 8, 2025, Prince William took to social media to share a heartfelt message celebrating the 99th birthday of renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough. The Prince of Wales expressed his admiration for Attenborough, highlighting how the veteran broadcaster has instilled a 'sense of hope and optimism' in the fight to protect the planet.
In his post on X, William acknowledged Attenborough's lifelong dedication to environmental education and advocacy. He wrote, 'As he turns 99 today, in his new film, Sir David has once again reminded us of the need to protect natural habitats - this time those beneath the ocean. He has dedicated his life to ensuring we understand the realities of what mankind is doing to the planet. However hard hitting his message is, Sir David always leaves us with a sense of hope and optimism that all is not lost and this film is no different.'
The message was accompanied by a touching photograph of the two together, emphasizing the personal connection William feels towards Attenborough. He concluded his post with a call to action, stating, 'We must act together, with urgency, to restore our oceans. Happy Birthday, David. W.'
Prince William has long regarded David Attenborough as a source of inspiration, not only for himself but also for his children. In a recent interview with The Mail on Sunday, he praised Attenborough's 'lifetime of extraordinary service to our planet,' encouraging others to join in celebrating the naturalist's impact on environmental awareness.
In his new documentary titled Ocean, which premiered on the same day as his birthday, Attenborough reflects on his mortality and shares profound insights from nearly a century of life experiences. He states, 'After living for nearly 100 years, I now understand that if we save the sea we save our world.' This poignant message underscores the critical role oceans play in the health of the planet.
Attenborough's film focuses on the detrimental effects of industrial fishing practices, particularly bottom trawling, which he describes as 'draining the life from our oceans.' He emphasizes the importance of marine ecosystems, stating, 'When I first saw the sea as a boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity. Now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true.'
Sir David Attenborough's contributions to environmentalism extend beyond his documentaries. He is closely involved with Prince William's Earthshot Prize, an initiative that awards £1 million annually to five projects aimed at tackling climate challenges. William remarked, 'We celebrate not just a milestone of years, but a lifetime of extraordinary service to our planet.'
In addition to his film work, Attenborough's influence has reached into the hearts of younger generations. Prince George, William's son, expressed deep concern about extinction after watching one of Attenborough's shows. At just seven years old, he famously asked his father, 'I don't want to watch any more – why has it come to this?'
Attenborough's new film not only showcases the beauty of the oceans but also the scientific advancements made over the past century. It highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts and the innovative methods being employed to restore marine health. The documentary, which is set to air in cinemas before being made available on platforms like National Geographic, Disney+, and Hulu later this year, aims to inspire viewers to take action.
Attenborough's career spans more than seven decades, beginning with his first job at the BBC in the 1950s. He has since produced and narrated some of the most beloved nature documentaries, including Life on Earth, The Blue Planet, and Planet Earth. His work has not only educated millions but has also fostered a greater appreciation for the natural world.
During a private screening of Ocean earlier this week, King Charles met with Attenborough, further highlighting the importance of the documentary and its themes. The royal family's ongoing support for environmental initiatives demonstrates a collective commitment to addressing climate change.
As Attenborough approaches the end of his life, his reflections on the planet's health resonate more than ever. He acknowledges the current state of ecosystems, stating, 'The planet is in such poor health that I would find it hard not to lose hope were it not for the ocean, which I call the most remarkable discovery of all.' His message is clear: protecting our oceans is crucial for the survival of our planet.
In conclusion, David Attenborough's legacy as a naturalist and environmental advocate continues to inspire action and awareness. As he celebrates his 99th birthday, the call to protect our oceans serves as a reminder that every effort counts in the fight against climate change. With figures like Prince William and King Charles rallying behind him, the hope for a healthier planet remains alive.
