In a milestone for the television industry, 99-year-old Sir David Attenborough surpassed Dick Van Dyke as the oldest Daytime Emmy winner. Meanwhile, “General Hospital” took home six major trophies, solidifying its place as a daytime favorite.
David Attenborough, 99, Breaks Record as Oldest Daytime Emmy Winner. ‘General Hospital’ Wins Big

Key Takeaways:
- Sir David Attenborough, at age 99, becomes the oldest Daytime Emmy winner
- “General Hospital” captures six major category wins, including drama series
- Paul Telfer (“Days of Our Lives”) and Nancy Lee Grahn (“General Hospital”) secure lead acting honors
- Dick Van Dyke’s record is surpassed by David Attenborough
- The ceremony highlights daytime television’s top talent in Pasadena, California
A Landmark Evening for Daytime Television
PASADENA, Calif.—The Daytime Emmy Awards delivered a night of celebration and milestones, most notably as Sir David Attenborough, 99, made history by becoming the oldest recipient of a Daytime Emmy. His achievement breaks the record previously held by Dick Van Dyke, underscoring the continued acclaim for Attenborough’s work in documentary and television broadcasting.
David Attenborough Surpasses Dick Van Dyke
Sir David Attenborough’s remarkable win sets a new benchmark for Daytime Emmy history. At 99 years old, he takes over the title that once belonged to the legendary performer Dick Van Dyke. While the specific category of Attenborough’s recognized work was not detailed in the event’s highlights, his trophy signifies an unforgettable moment in the awards’ legacy.
‘General Hospital’ Takes Six Trophies
One of the ceremony’s biggest winners was ABC’s “General Hospital,” which attracted attention with six impressive victories in the major daytime categories, including the coveted “Outstanding Drama Series” honor. The show’s consistent performance and passionate fan base contributed to its sweep in multiple categories.
Acting Honors for Daytime’s Finest
Winning lead acting accolades at the ceremony were Paul Telfer from “Days of Our Lives” and Nancy Lee Grahn from “General Hospital.” Their portrayals in one of television’s most time-honored formats underscored the range and impact of daytime drama, as these series continue to engage loyal audiences year after year.
Celebrating Success and Longevity
This year’s awards highlighted the enduring appeal of daytime television, from the sweeping narrative arcs that define soap operas to the dedicated storytelling of renowned figures like Attenborough. The night concluded on a celebratory note, reminding audiences that remarkable achievements can happen at any age and in any area of daytime television.