Skip to main content

In 1976, David Attenborough embarked on his most ambitious project ever: Life on Earth. Written and presented by Attenborough, the series set out to "tell the greatest story in all the world": how life on our planet evolved. 

 

Fifty years after production began, and in celebration of Attenborough’s 100th birthday, Life on Earth: Attenborough's Greatest Adventure offers rare, behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the groundbreaking series.

Watch the Trailer

David Attenborough tells the story of the wildlife blockbuster that would change his life forever — including how the team captured some of the series’ most astounding moments, like his unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas in Rwanda, often voted one of the greatest television moments of all time.

Premieres 

Wednesday, May 6


Life on Earth became the first worldwide natural history blockbuster, mesmerizing viewers with incredible photography and transforming public perception of the natural world. 


Upon its broadcast on PBS in 1982, Life on Earth quickly became a global phenomenon, commanding the attention of over 500 million people in more than 100 territories.

 

Its extraordinary success launched five decades of ambitious wildlife storytelling and cemented Attenborough’s legacy as the most successful and influential wildlife filmmaker of our time.

David Attenborough's Wildlife Highlights

Explore Full Episodes Featuring David Attenborough

Sir David Attenborough explores a site with traces of ancient mammoths and Neanderthals.Play

NOVA

Great Mammoth Mystery

Sir David Attenborough explores a site with traces of ancient mammoths and Neanderthals.

Sir David Attenborough explores desert plants with survival tactics.Play

The Green Planet

Desert Worlds

Sir David Attenborough explores desert plants with survival tactics.
 

STREAM IT ALL
IN THE APP
PBS logo image
DOWNLOAD
THE FREE PBS APP*
* Local PBS station membership required to access some content