Sir David Attenborough reflects on 25 years since Blue Planet
Sir David Attenborough never expected to be narrating a third series of Blue Planet when the original launched 25 years ago.
Sir David Attenborough is "proud and delighted" to be back for Blue Planet III.
The 100-year-old broadcasting and natural history icon has returned to narrate a third series in his beloved Blue Planet documentary saga, 25 years after the first programme was broadcast on the BBC.
He said: "Twenty-five years ago, when I narrated the first Blue Planet series it didn't occur to me that I would be narrating a third series in my centennial year.
"The ocean is an endlessly fascinating place. In these new programmes we uncover a further wonderful array of under-water life, which is more surprising, more sophisticated and even more important than we ever realised.
"I am proud and delighted to be associated with Blue Planet III."
Sir David was speaking in a special video message for guests at the global premiere.
On Tuesday (06.10.26), Londoners were stunned with a giant ocean spectacle as BBC Studios delivered a spectacular ocean-themed takeover of the famous Piccadilly Lights.
The BBC said: "A giant whale breaching above the New York skyline. Mesmerising marine worlds. Extraordinary creatures from the depths of the ocean.
"A quarter of a century after it changed TV forever, the highly anticipated Blue Planet III was heralded in central London tonight with a global premiere and an unforgettable takeover of its iconic Piccadilly Lights by BBC Studios.
"Captivating passers-by, in the heart of the capital, the famous screens became a window into the ocean, bringing some of the most remarkable moments from the new series to life in one of the world's busiest and most famous public spaces."
The series feature an original score from Bleeding Fingers Music and legendary composer Hans Zimmer, while they collaborated with former Little Mix star Jade on new original song Into The Deep (Seas Cry) especially for the new series.
Reflecting on the launch event, Zai Bennett - CEO and Chief Creative Officer for BBC Studios Global Content - commented: "For a quarter of a century, our landmark Blue Planet series has helped people around the world view our oceans through fresh eyes.
"Blue Planet III is the next chapter in that extraordinary story.
"Created by the unparalleled talent of our incredible Natural History Unit and guided once again by Sir David Attenborough’s astonishing storytelling, this new series reveals wonders few of us could ever imagine and deepens our understanding of the world we share.
"Tonight’s premiere at Piccadilly Lights celebrates the power of world-class British creativity to stop people in their tracks, spark collective awe, and connect audiences across generations - and across the globe."
Blue Planet III is coming to BBC One and iPlayer this autumn.
