Sir David Attenborough has made history by becoming the oldest Daytime Emmy winner at age 99, securing the award for his narration of the Netflix documentary ‘Secret Lives of Orangutans’ and breaking the record previously held by Dick Van Dyke. This achievement highlights his enduring legacy in broadcasting and natural history.
The 52nd annual Daytime Emmy Awards, held on Friday, October 17, 2025, in Pasadena, California, saw Attenborough win in the outstanding daytime personality, non-daily category. His victory was announced during the ceremony, although the 99-year-old naturalist was not in attendance. The award recognizes his compelling narration that brought the story of orangutans in Sumatra to life, captivating audiences with his distinctive voice and storytelling.
‘Secret Lives of Orangutans’ itself was a standout at the awards, also winning for outstanding music direction and composition and outstanding directing team for a single camera daytime non-fiction programme. The documentary, which follows a group of apes, including an 8-year-old named Eden, explores their relatable behaviors and challenges in the pristine jungles of Indonesia. It provides an intimate look at their social structures, intelligence, and the conservation issues they face, such as deforestation and human encroachment.
Attenborough’s win eclipsed the record set just last year by actor Dick Van Dyke, who was 98 when he won for his guest role on ‘Days of Our Lives.’ Van Dyke had held the title of oldest Daytime Emmy winner for only a year, highlighting the rapid pace of milestones in the awards’ history. This friendly rivalry underscores the diversity of talent celebrated at the Daytime Emmys, spanning from drama to documentary.
Sir David’s career spans over seven decades, during which he has become one of the world’s most renowned broadcasters and naturalists. From early series like ‘Zoo Quest’ in the 1950s to modern hits like ‘Planet Earth,’ ‘Blue Planet,’ and ‘The Green Planet,’ his voice is iconic in natural history programming. More than 40 animal and plant species have been named in his honor, reflecting his profound impact on science and public awareness of biodiversity.
The Daytime Emmys celebrate excellence in American daytime television, with other notable winners including ‘General Hospital’ for outstanding daytime drama series and Drew Barrymore for outstanding daytime talk series host. The event brought together stars from various genres, but Attenborough’s achievement stood out for its historical significance and cross-generational appeal. His win bridges entertainment and education, demonstrating the power of documentary filmmaking.
This award adds to Attenborough’s extensive list of accolades, which includes multiple BAFTAs, Emmys, and a knighthood, and comes as he approaches his 100th birthday in May 2026. It reinforces his enduring influence and the public’s appreciation for his work in educating and inspiring audiences about the natural world. His narratives often carry urgent messages about conservation and climate change, resonating deeply in today’s environmental context.
Looking ahead, Attenborough continues to be active in projects aimed at environmental conservation, such as his recent film ‘Ocean,’ which he described as one of the most important of his career for its potential to drive action on biodiversity protection. His legacy is not just in awards but in fostering a deeper connection between people and the planet, encouraging stewardship for future generations. As he nears centenarian status, his voice remains a vital force in global discourse on nature and sustainability.