The truth behind the 'axed' episode of David Attenborough's BBC show

BBC bosses addressed rumours that it pulled an episode of Sir David Attenborough's series Wild Isles which aired in 2023.

NTAs 2024: David Attenborough wins award

BBC viewers will remember David Attenborough's 2023 series Wild Isles having five episodes, however it was claimed that one episode had been removed from the broadcaster's schedule.

The series saw the 98 year old icon travelling worldwide to encounter a new fascinating variety of habitats and animals. At the time, The Guardian reported that a bonus episode about the destruction of wildlife in the UK will not be aired.

As a result, the BBC shut down reports that it removed the episode in order to avoid backlash from the Conversative party and right-wing supporters.

Speaking to Metro, a BBC spokesperson said at the time: "Wild Isles is – and always was – a five-part series and does not shy away from environmental content.

"We have acquired a separate film for iPlayer from the RSPB and WWF and Silverback Films about people working to preserve and restore the biodiversity of the British Isles."

PA Media David Attenborough

David Attenborough's new series will air on the BBC (Image: PA)

The spokesperson also insisted that there was no "sixth episode".

Express Online have previously contacted the BBC for comment.

In recent news, David Attenborough sparked concern as he failed to attend the National Television Awards. The TV icon won Best Expert for his screen work about nature this year, beating the likes of Kaleb Cooper.

Many ITV fans questioned his absence and took to social media to voice their concerns. One person said on X: “What do you mean sir David can not be with us tonight, is he good, is he well, we need him protected at all costs.”

National Television Awards 2024 - Show

David was absent from the NTA's last week (Image: Getty)

A second fans also said: "Has anyone checked if David Attenborough is actually okay??"

A third person similarly chimed in: "At 98 David Attenborough is probably tucked up in bed," as a fourth said: " Can’t blame David Attenborough for not attending tbh."

Despite his notable absence, David Attenborugh will soon return to BBC Factual to present another documentary, titled Asia.

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