May 9, 2026

Centenarian Documentarian

May 8 marks the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough, an enduring broadcaster, storyteller, and champion of the natural world. Often serving as a narrator, Attenborough describes far-flung environments with both familiarity and wonder. His work on over a hundred nature documentaries has earned him many accolades, including two knighthoods and over fifty species named in his honor.
Biography of Sir David Attenborough, English writer, naturalist, and television host. Attenborough hosted the nine-party Life series following anthropology and natural history. Environment, climate change, science, Earth, BBC.
David Attenborough: An Explorer’s Life
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Platysaurus attenboroughi (Attenborough's flat lizard). (lizards, David Attenborough)
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© Martin Whiting
Sir David Attenborough or Richard Samuel Attenborough an English actor, director, and producer makes friends with a meerkat during filming of The Life of Mammals; 2008
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Holy Week(end)

On May 8, 2025, the world was introduced to Pope Leo XIV—an Augustinian priest known for becoming the first American pope in history. Year one has seen Leo continue programs established by his predecessor, Francis—supporting environmental protections and the rights of migrants—while also striking out on his own, emphasizing unity in the church and clashing with American politicians.

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Infographic showing various facts about the Pope.
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As you may remember from the Academy Award-winning film Conclave (2024), papal elections can be arduous and dramatic processes. Since the 11th century, popes have been elected by a group of cardinals that form the papal conclave. The vote usually takes just a few days—but in the past it’s taken over two years. (After the death of Clement IV the cardinals had to be locked in the building before they finally agreed to elect Gregory X.) 

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