Sir David Attenborough talking to camera in a blue shirt
TV

BBC statement after concerns over Sir David Attenborough’s new series Asia

The broadcaster addressed 'differences' that viewers spotted

Sir David Attenborough returns to our screens this weekend (January 18) with reruns of his BBC series Asia.

However, after the series originally aired, concerns about the much-loved naturalist poured in.

So much so that the BBC was forced to step in and comment.

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In the first episode of the series, which airs again this weekend, the 99 year old takes viewers on a journey to explore the oceans of the continent. The episode starts with the TV legend walking through the Natural History Museum and sitting at a table with a book. He tells told viewers that “of all the wonderful places in the world, one continent holds more riches than any other”.

Sir David Attenborough talking to camera in a blue shirt
Sir David Attenborough’s Asia first aired in November 2024 (Credit: BBC)

David Attenborough sparks concern with new BBC series Asia

During the scene, while he talking to the camera, David‘s voice sounds the same as it usually does. However, in the voiceover for the episode, some viewers pointed out that he didn’t sound like his usual self. It originally aired in November 2024.

One commented: “Anyone else confused as to why the voice of the amazing David Attenborough sounds different? It’s like it’s been auto tuned?”

Another then added: “David Attenborough now sounds like a bad David Attenborough impersonator – slightly off. Perhaps he’s AI now?”

“It’s not quite right, is it?” a third agreed. “It’s definitely been tweaked in some way. To begin with I thought it was someone else narrating,” they then added.

A brown bear standing on the ice
The series, on the iPlayer now, explores the continent of Asia and all its wonders (Credit: BBC)

BBC statement

However, the BBC was quick to comment on the claims, insisting that no trickery had been used in recording David’s voiceover.

David Attenborough Sunday evening comfort viewing is the best thing this country has.

Speaking to The Metro, a spokesperson reassured viewers and said: “No AI or auto tune has been used on Sir David’s voice, which was recorded in exactly the same way it has been for years.”

David Attenborough sitting in a chair
The BBC confirmed David was recorded in exactly the same way as he has been before following concerns (Credit: BBC)

‘Comfort viewing’

Following the show, viewers took to social media to deliver their verdict.

One commented: “I could listen to him talk all day long. Well done to the camera crews who film these docs… sublime as always. I love seeing animals and sea creatures doing their thing.”

Another added: “David Attenborough Sunday evening comfort viewing is the best thing this country has.”

Asia is on Sunday January 18 at 4.35pm on BBC One, or you can binge the lot on iPlayer now.

Read more: Sir David Attenborough ’embarrassed’ after ‘conning’ viewers of his documentaries 

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Nancy Brown
Editor