Sir David Attenborough has graced television screens for decades and turns 100 years old today. The renowned environmentalist and broadcaster continues to inspire with his lifelong dedication to protecting the natural world.
Two Knighthoods and a Quiet Family Life
The acclaimed natural historian and filmmaker has received two knighthoods, first in 1985 and again in 2020. Despite his public fame, he leads a private life in Richmond, South West London. He recently made a rare appearance in Central London with his daughter Susan.
Marriage to Jane Elizabeth Ebsworth Oriel
David was married to Jane for 47 years until her death in 1997 from a brain haemorrhage at age 70. In his autobiography, he wrote of holding her hand in the hospital: "She did, and gave my hand a squeeze. The focus of my life, the anchor had gone... now I was lost." He told The Express that he coped by working, calling it "fantastic luck" that he could continue his career.
Children and Brother
Their daughter Susan, a former headmistress, lives in the UK. Their son Robert is a biological anthropologist who has worked at the Australian National University and the University of Cambridge. David's older brother, Richard Attenborough, was a famous actor and director known for Jurassic Park, Miracle on 34th Street, and The Great Escape. Richard passed away in 2014, five days before his 91st birthday.
One Thing He Never Did
Despite traveling the world, Sir David has never driven a car. He once said: "I don't run a car, have never run a car. I could say that this is because I have this extremely tender environmentalist conscience, but the fact is I hate driving."
