In his latest BBC One series Parenthood, legendary broadcaster Sir David Attenborough returns to tell one of nature’s most emotional and dramatic stories: how animals across the globe sacrifice everything for their offspring.

The six-part documentary showcases stunning scenes from around the world, highlighting the instinctive dedication of animal parents. From tender care to life-threatening battles, these creatures display parenting in its purest form.

One of the most jaw-dropping moments comes from Namibia, where African social spiders perform an act of ultimate sacrifice. In a scene described as “the perfect natural history sequence” by director Jeff Wilson, viewers witness the spider mother giving her life to nourish the next generation. Known as matriphagy, this chilling event shows baby spiders feeding on their own mother and aging relatives to survive.

“David knows exactly how to tell these powerful stories,” says Wilson. “His narration during that sequence is some of the best I’ve ever heard from him.”

The series doesn’t just shock—it connects. Wilson explains, “This is a story about the depth of parental commitment. How far would you go for your children? While I’m not suggesting any human parent needs to go to such lengths, every mom or dad knows the feeling of being ‘devoured’ when they forget to pack snacks!”

Attenborough’s Parenthood blends scientific insight with heartfelt storytelling, reminding us that love, struggle, and sacrifice are not just human experiences—they’re universal.