The latest episode of the talk show, The Jonathan Ross Show, featured an electrifying conversation between legendary wildlife presenter Sir David Attenborough and actor Idris Elba. The two dynamic personalities delved into some astonishing animal behaviors captured on film, leaving the audience in awe.
Idris Elba, known for his roles in Luther and The Wire, seemed genuinely surprised when Sir David revealed that there are still animal behaviors he hasn’t witnessed firsthand. Sir David mentioned the existence of giant squid, enormous creatures that can reach up to 100 feet in length. These elusive beings dwell in the deep waters and are seldom seen alive. However, a Japanese team managed to film them a couple of years ago. Sir David also explained that giant squid engage in epic battles with sperm whales, leaving circular scars on their snouts from the giant suckers of the squid.
But it wasn’t just marine life that amazed Idris Elba. A particular video clip showed an octopus walking on land, which Sir David described as both ingenious and revolting. The actor confessed he had never heard of this capability before and jokingly commented that he would leave his kids with wild beasts if he encountered land-walking octopuses on the beach.
Sharing his own wildlife encounter, Idris Elba recalled an experience with wild orangutans during a shoot in Cape Town. These playful creatures came right up to him, grabbing his handbag and sandwich before moving along. He humorously added that even a baboon sat beside him at one point during his adventures.
The conversation took a more serious turn when discussing the potential dangers of filming certain animals, such as polar bears. Sir David highlighted that polar bears are not only visually stunning but also terrifying and lethal creatures. He revealed that polar bears are the only wild animals known to deliberately hunt human beings. The filming team for one of Sir David’s projects unexpectedly discovered a new hunting behavior where polar bears tracked seals through holes in the ice during the spring. The team even realized that one polar bear had been hunting the cameraman, which added an extra layer of intensity to their already challenging work.
Sir David Attenborough‘s focus on showcasing the circle of life in the animal kingdom instead of simply presenting the cuteness of animals was another highlight of the conversation. He emphasized that most predators fail most of the time, and it is the tactics used by both predators and prey that intrigue him. An example he gave was the hunting dogs’ teamwork, demonstrating how they coordinate and run down their prey. Dolphins in Florida were also mentioned for their impressive ability to herd fish using teamwork, as they must all turn the same way to efficiently catch their meal.
As the interview came to a close, Sir David Attenborough, a beloved figure in the world of wildlife documentaries, expressed his unwavering passion for our planet’s rich biodiversity. He suggested that there is still so much to explore and enjoy here on Earth, making the thought of venturing into space less enticing for him. The audience laughed as he jokingly canceled his ticket to space and expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support of nature enthusiasts.
The Jonathan Ross Show continues to captivate viewers with its fascinating guests and engaging conversations. Sir David Attenborough‘s presence alongside Idris Elba showcased the perfect blend of excitement, entertainment, and education. So, if you missed this thrilling episode, be sure to catch it online or on DVD, as it promises sheer enjoyment from start to finish.
