BBC bosses rush to make third Planet Earth series before Sir David Attenborough retires
The third instalment is in the pipeline but could take up to ten years to make
PLANET Earth is already being lined up for a third instalment – but BBC bosses need to make it quickly to keep 90-year-old Sir David Attenborough on board.
The second series of the wildlife documentary has just finished and viewers thought it would probably be the last time they would witness the breath-taking scenes of nature accompanied by Sir David Attenborough's narration.
But the show’s bosses are now keen to persuade the naturalist to record another batch of episodes – before he retires.
Producer Mike Gunton explained the idea of a third series in the pipeline but, even if the BBC are on board with the recommission, it could take at least a decade to make.
Speaking to the , Mike explained: "We'd also be crazy to say it will be here in three years or even five years' time. We love working with Sir David and I think he loves working with us, and we want that to last as long as possible.”
Related Stories
He went on to reveal that once David no longer wants to be part of the show, they will be forced to restructure the entire thing.
“When he decides he doesn't want to do any more, we will have to rethink how we make these programmes. You can't replace him - it's pointless trying,” he revealed.
Planet Earth first hit television screens in 2006 and, following the huge success of its debut, the BBC announced earlier this year that it had commissioned a six-part sequel.
Planet Earth II was predicted to be a hit with viewers but producers never expected it to beat ITV's singing show The X Factor in the ratings war consistently for six weeks.
And the success is hardly surprising as it was the most high-tech series ever to grace screens due to the ultra-high-speed cameras mounted on drones that gave fans an up-close glimpse of the natural world that has never been witnessed before.
David recently revealed that although he things about dying every day, he has no plans to retire.
The presenter - who lost his brother Richard Attenborough two years ago just days before his 91st birthday - has admitted he can't help but think about his own mortality on a daily basis but, despite his fears, he has no plans to retire just yet.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror newspaper, he said: "Not in a morbid kind of way but I suppose in an observational kind of way.
"I have no intention of retiring, as long as I can do the job and anybody wants me to. Who wouldn't go on? It is a joy and a huge privilege."
Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.
