David Attenborough, 96, has been the face and voice of documentary television for decades.
He is beloved worldwide and considered a national treasure in the UK.
He has produced some of the most breathtaking documentary films ever aired, including the BBC ’s The Green Planet and A Plastic Ocean.
In honour of all his services to TV, broadcasting and conservation, he has been awarded not one but two knighthoods.
It’s a rare honour, with Prince Charles bestowing him with the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michaels and St George.
It comes decades after he received his first knighthood, with both highlighting an important career that spans eight decades.
What is a Knight Grand Cross?
A Knight Grand Cross is a rank that is used in many different cultures.
It is typically reserved for royalty or heads of states across many different parts of the world.
In the UK, the rank of Knight Grand Cross, or Dame Grand Cross, allows the awardee to use the title ‘Sir’ or ‘Dame’.
It lies above the rank of Knight Commander and its history is linked to the British Empire.
Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire was first created in 1917 to honour the Order.
David is one of just 120 people to be awarded the title Knight or Dame Grand Cross.
Earlier this year, James Bond legend Daniel Craig was also invited to join the Order, as he was made a Companion - the same rank as the fictitious spy 007.
How to became eligible for a knighthood
Anyone can be nominated for a knighthood; a British citizen or a citizen of the 15 Commonwealth realms.
Even non-British or Commonwealth figures can be considered for the award.
The honours list is announced twice a year, in June for the Queen’s official birthday and again at New Year.
Despite its origins in the Middle Ages, today’s awards are simply given out to people that have "made achievements in public life" and "committed themselves to serving and helping Britain".
