Attenborough becomes oldest Daytime Emmy winner for Orangutans

Sir David Attenborough, 99, became the oldest winner in Daytime Emmy history Friday night, taking home the award for Outstanding Daytime Personality NonDaily for Netflix's Secret Lives of Orangutans at the 52nd annual Daytime Emmy Awards at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California. The win surpasses last year's record set by Dick Van Dyke, who was 98 when he won a Daytime Emmy in 2024. Attenborough was not present to accept the trophy.

The ceremony, hosted by Mario Lopez and streamed on Emmy platforms, saw General Hospital emerge as the night's biggest winner, claiming multiple major honors including Outstanding Daytime Drama Series and several acting and creative awards. Nancy Lee Grahn won lead actress for her long-running role as Alexis Davis, and Jonathan Jackson won supporting actor for his portrayal of Lucky Spencer. Susan Walters took supporting actress for her recurring role as Diane Jenkins Abbott on The Young and the Restless. Alley Mills won guest performer for her work as Heather Webber on General Hospital. The show also collected prizes for its writing and directing teams, contributing to a strong showing for the ABC soap.