David Attenborough’s shock TV rival revealed as Prime Video orders nature doc

March 5, 2025

DAVID Attenborough’s shock new TV rival has been revealed – and it’s a very familiar face.

Prime Video have commissioned Octopus!, a two-part epic nature documentary.

Sir David Attenborough at the Planet Earth III launch.
Sir David Attenborough’s shock new TV rival has been revealedCredit: Getty
Phoebe Waller-Bridge at the Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny premiere.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge will narrate and executive produce a nature documentary for Prime VideoCredit: Getty
Phoebe Waller-Bridge at the Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny screening.
She is perhaps best known for creating and writing hit comedy series FleabagCredit: Getty

Emmy and Golden Globe winner Phoebe Waller-Bridge will narrate and serve as executive producer.

The writer and actress, 39, created, wrote and starred in BBC comedy series Fleabag.

In addition, she penned and produced acclaimed spy series Killing Eve.

According to its official description, Octopus! “transports viewers into the otherworldly depths of one of the most intelligent and mysterious life forms on Earth as it follows the Giant Pacific Octopus from birth to death.”

,More on David Attenborough

It adds: “The documentary features an eclectic mix of characters who have their own unique connections to these creatures, from the scientist trying to save them, the explorer trying to understand them, to the Emmy-nominated actor and comedian, Tracy Morgan, who is obsessed with them. 

“Their adventures will make us laugh, cry, and question our own place on this planet along the way.”

Meanwhile, Niharika Desai directs the upcoming two-part nature special.

Vernon Sanders, head of television at Amazon MGM Studios, praised Phoebe’s involvement in the series.

He said: “This charming and unique story will shine a light on these immensely special and intelligent animals through Phoebe’s endearing and comedic lens.

“Not only will our global customers get an up-close look at the octopus, but you will see the impact they have on people that dedicate their lives to studying these magical creatures.”

Watch brilliant moment Wimbledon crowd rises and applauds TV legend Sir David Attenborough, 98, on centre court

Sir David, 98, has been synonymous with the Beeb’s nature documentaries for several decades.

However, this is not the first time a Hollywood star has followed in his footsteps.

It was previously announced that Oscar winner Tom Hanks would narrate ten-part nature series The Americas for BBC One.

In addition, Downton Abbey‘s Hugh Bonneville has also stepped behind the microphone.

The actor lent his voiceover talent to The Secret Lives of Animals for Apple TV+.

That programme highlights 77 unique species in 24 countries over three years.

READ MORE SUN STORIES

As for Sir David, his most recent nature documentary was titled Asia.

It aired for seven episodes between November and December last year, exploring the continent’s wildlife and natural wonders.

Portrait of Sir David Attenborough.
Sir David has been synonymous with the BBC’s nature programmes for decadesCredit: Getty

 

Search

RECENT PRESS RELEASES