Throughout his life, Sir David Attenborough has studied and documented the lives of countless animal species, but now - for the first time - the spotlight will be put on his own.

A new film, by award-winning wildlife film-makers Silverback Films and global environmental organisation WWF, will tell the story of the 93-year-old natural historian's life, who the production call, "the man who has seen more of the natural world than any other."

Aside from chronicling the broadcaster's extraordinary life, David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet will also explore the colossal scale of humanity's impact on nature and the devastating changes he's seen throughout his lifetime. The film is being called "Attenborough's witness statement for the natural world."

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David Attenborough with his son Robert in 1955 (Credit: PA)

In it, the naturalist reflects on the very beginning of his broadcasting career, at age 28, and how the start of global air travel opened up a new realm of possibilities, but also how little we knew about the problems that lay ahead.

"I've had the most extraordinary life. It's only now that I appreciate how extraordinary," the national treasure has said of the film in a statement.

The world premiere of the film will take place on Thursday 16th April 2020 at the Royal Albert Hall and will broadcast live to cinemas across the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland.

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David Attenborough Chernobyl, Ukraine, filming 'David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet' (Credit: Silverback Films)

The documentary is also said to offer "a powerful message of hope for future generations" which will be heard by 500 inspiring young people across the UK working to combat climate change, who have the best seats reserved at the premiere.

The film will be released globally on Netflix in spring 2020. Colin Butfield, WWF's Executive Producer for the film, says: "For decades, David has brought the natural world to the homes of audiences worldwide, but there has never been a more significant moment for him to share his own story and reflections.

David and his daughter Susan in 1957 (Credit: PA)

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"This film coincides with a monumental year for environmental action as world leaders make critical decisions on nature and climate. It sends a powerful message from the most inspiring and celebrated naturalist of our time."



Keith Scholey, Executive Producer at Silverback Films, adds: "I've worked with David on many projects throughout my career, but to collaborate on this film, which is so important at this time, has been a real privilege.

"At 93 years old, his knowledge and insight of the natural world remains as relevant and cherished today as it was the first time he introduced the British public to pangolins and sloths on television. This new film will bring together those historic moments with his views on the current problems our natural world faces and how we can solve them."

The 93-year-old will speak at the world premiere (Credit: PA)