Downton Abbey star bids to become next David Attenborough as they front new nature documentary
A DOWNTON Abbey star hopes to follow in Sir David Attenborough’s footsteps with a new nature documentary.
The acclaimed ITV historical drama captivated viewers from 2010 to 2015.
Hugh Bonneville, who played Robert Crawley, narrates The Secret Lives of Animals.
This 10-part docuseries highlights 77 unique species in 24 countries over three years.
Meanwhile, the show will make its global Apple TV+ debut on December 18.
In The Secret Lives of Animals, Hugh will likely look to Sir David Attenborough for inspiration.
The beloved natural historian, 98, continues to have a thriving broadcasting career.
Most recently, Sir David has narrated the BBC documentary series Asia.
The programme covers the titular continent’s natural wonders.
However, some fans observed Sir David’s voice was at a higher pitch than usual – suspecting it had been adjusted in some way.
One person wrote on social media: “Anyone else confused as to why the voice of the amazing Sir David Attenborough sounds different?
“It’s like it’s been autotuned.”
Another commented: “It’s definitely been tweaked in some way. To begin with I thought it was someone else narrating.”
A third shared: “David Attenborough now sounds like a bad David Attenborough impersonator – like the new faux-Sallis Wallace.
“Perhaps he’s AI now?”
As for Downton Abbey, the story has continued – despite ending its TV run nine years ago.
BBC's best nature shows
The BBC has a wide range of wildlife shows - and here is a selection of some of the best.
- Springwatch
- Autumnwatch
- Planet Earth
- Animal Park
- The Green Planet
- Dynasties
- Hive Alive
Two feature films have been released, with a third on the way.
However, the cast faced a huge loss earlier this year, with the death of Dame Maggie Smith.
A twice Oscar-winner, she portrayed Violet Crawley – the character died in the second movie.
The Secret Lives of Animals will be airing on Apple TV+.