Eminent wildlife photographer Doug Allen dies in Nepal

Pioneering wildlife cameraman Doug Allen OBE has passed away after becoming unwell on a mountain trek in Nepal.

Bafta and Emmy award-winner Doug, 74, who was renowned for his work with David Attenborough on programmes including The Blue Planet, Planet Earth and Frozen Planet, died "immersed in nature and surrounded by friends," according to his management company, Jo Sarsby Management. "A true pioneer of wildlife filmmaking, Doug captured some of the most breathtaking and intimate moments in the natural world.

"Doug leaves behind a visual legacy that few could ever match. His work brought audiences closer to the wonders of our planet, inspiring awe, understanding and deep respect for the planet."

Doug's destination was base camp at Annapurna - the tenth highest mountain in the world. According to BBC News, Allen suffered breathing difficulties on Monday April 6th, the first day of his trek, and was taken to Care Mark Hospital in Pokhara before being transferred to the city's Manipal Hospital. Doctors said he died of a brain haemorrhage on Wednesday April 8th.

Kiwi connections

Earlier this year, Doug embarked on a tour of the South Island, managed by his son Liam who now lives in New Zealand, where he entertained sold-out venues with tales of his exploits over the years. An accomplished diver, he filmed in some of the world's most extreme environments, including Antarctica, the Arctic, Siberia, Canada and Norway.

Passionate about environmental issues, the former marine biologist was a staunch advocate for ocean conservation and against climate change, advocating for an 'ecocide' bill to protect natural environments. He supported several ecological initiatives, and was a strong proponent for ethical banking.

During his New Zealand shows, Doug advocated for people to think hard about where they entrust their money, explaining that ANZ, BNZ, ASB and Westpac, the four large banks in New Zealand (all of which are owned by overseas companies) continue to fund fossil fuel companies. In 2024 he was made an OBE for services to broadcast media and environmental awareness.

Stories galore

Over the course of his career, Doug won eight Emmy Awards and five Baftas for his work. He was also awarded the Polar Medal twice, for his work specialising in filming some of the planet's most extreme environments, and he was made an honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society.

He was a man of many stories, with a particular passion for polar bears and whales. Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) CEO paid tribute to Doug, saying, "Not only was Doug an exemplary whale and dolphin filmmaker, but he was a passionate conservationist. His appreciation of seeing these remarkable being swimming freely in their ocean home translated into a passion for their protection."

 In another close underwater encounter, he was mistaken for a seal by a hungry walrus - only managing to escape after hitting it on the head with his camera.

Our thoughts are with Doug's family and friends at this time.