National Geographic Celebrates Iconic Landscapes Across the U.S. This Summer in “America’s National Parks”
Narrated and executive produced by Garth Brooks, the five-part series showcases the breathtaking landscape and extraordinary wildlife in parks full of rich surprises and wonder.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CELEBRATES ICONIC LANDSCAPES ACROSS THE U.S. THIS SUMMER IN “AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS”
NARRATED BY GARTH BROOKS, FIVE-PART SERIES PREMIERES AUGUST 29 AT 9/8C
The week-long event begins on Monday, August 28 at 9/8c on National Geographic. All episodes stream August 31 only on Disney+
National Geographic takes viewers on an extraordinary venture across world-famous and lesser-known national parks to reveal the diversity and wonder of this beautiful country, from the lush valley floors of Yosemite to the constantly erupting volcanoes of Hawai’i. Narrated and executive produced by Garth Brooks, AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS showcases the breathtaking landscape and extraordinary wildlife in parks full of rich surprises and wonder. The award-winning creative team behind iconic natural history films and series like Disneynature’s “Earth” and “Elephant Eden,” as well as BBC’s “Planet Earth” and “Frozen Planet,” brings you the inspiring series shot using cutting-edge technology, including long-lens cinematography, remote camera traps and the latest high-resolution drone technology. The series captures not only stunning landscapes and frozen moments in time but intimate glimpses into the lives of the charismatic and intriguing animals that inhabit these parks.
ALL EPISODES PREMIERE ON DISNEY+ AUGUST 31
Grand Canyon
Premieres Monday, August 29 on National Geographic
Grand Canyon National Park is a high-rise haven sculpted by the elements where all of life is connected. Following the cycle of seasons from winter to fall, explore the secret depths of the world’s most famous natural wonder. At every elevation, from rim to riverbed, the park’s wild inhabitants carve out a niche that gives them an edge in this ancient arena.
Yosemite
Premieres Tuesday, August 30 on National Geographic
Yosemite National Park rises from lush valley floors to soaring alpine peaks. With 4 million visitors a year, famed granite faces, giant sequoias and over 400 different animal species, it’s a celebrity in the world of National Parks. Despite its fame, Yosemite still holds secrets rarely seen. This episode reveals how black bears, coyotes, owls and a host of smaller critters survive in this Californian oasis.
Big Bend
Premieres Wednesday, August 31 on National Geographic
Big Bend National Park is a vast wilderness of mountains, deserts and rivers deep in the heart of Texas. A gift to the U.S. from the Lone Star State, Big Bend National Park is a protected sanctuary for life on the southern border. With more species of birds, bugs and cacti than any other National Park in the United States, this park is a unique and harsh wonderland.
Badlands
Premieres Thursday, September 1 on National Geographic
Badlands National Park is a land of rugged beauty, seventy-five million years in the making. Found in South Dakota, its heart is a sea of grass, making up one of the most endangered ecosystems on the Earth. This park is also home to iconic rocky spires carved from the ground by wind and rain. Among the grass and stone are some of America’s most iconic species, who have evolved together to benefit each other.
Hawai’i Volcanoes
Premieres Friday, September 2 on National Geographic
Witness the natural wonders of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park a sacred land born of fire and sea. Home to the most unique assemblage of species anywhere on the planet, that navigate living in the ever-changing landscape shaped by the world’s most active volcanoes. From humpback whales to carnivorous caterpillars, this episode reveals the largest and most ecologically diverse wilderness in the Pacific islands.
National Geographic Dives Into the Minds of the World’s Greatest Adventure Athletes in New 10-Part Series “Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin”
The epic 10-part series ventures inside the minds of pioneering adventure athletes, captured at the peak of their powers as they recount their personal stories of transcendence on the journey to perfect the mastery of their craft.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
National Geographic Dives Into the Minds of the World’s Greatest Adventure Athletes in New 10-part Series “Edge of the Unknown With Jimmy Chin”
The Latest Project From Oscar(R), BAFTA and Multiple Emmy(R) Award-Winning Directing Duo E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN Premieres Monday, Sept. 5, at 9:30/8:30c on National Geographic and all episodes will be available on Disney+ beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 7
Athletes Featured Include Renowned Climber Alex Honnold, Top Big Wave Surfer Justine Dupont, Legendary Big Mountain Snowboarder Travis Rice and more.
WASHINGTON — For the world’s top adventure athletes, the line between triumph and tragedy is razor thin. In the pivotal moments when life hangs in the balance, what drives the greatest to continue pushing to redefine what is humanly possible, to stare down fear and risk it all? From Academy Award(R)-winning executive producers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin comes EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN, an epic 10-part series that ventures inside the minds of pioneering adventure athletes, captured at the peak of their powers as they recount their personal stories of transcendence on the journey to perfect the mastery of their craft.
Through intimate interviews and archival footage from the world’s top big wave surfers, climbers, big mountain snowboarders, polar explorers and kayakers, EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN gives viewers a front-row seat to adrenaline-filled adventures, uncovering how athletes adapt and evolve, even after being confronted by fear, devastating personal loss, and Mother Nature at her harshest. Witness how some of the world’s top athletes prepare mentally, physically and emotionally for their high-stakes endeavors.
EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN premieres Monday, Sept. 5, at 9:30/8:30c on National Geographic, and all episodes will be available on Disney+ beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 7, on Disney+. Click here for the series trailer and here for photos.
“We’re honored to be able to tell these stories about some of the greatest adventure athletes of our time pushed to their psychological and physical limits as they battle to redefine what is possible,” said Vasarhelyi and Chin. “Each episode reveals that even top athletes must face their fears to survive and achieve the seemingly impossible. It’s a rare look behind the curtain at the painstaking preparation required by each of these 10 athletes and what they are willing to risk to accomplish transcendence in their sports.”
Episodes include the following:
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Before Free Solo
Episode Premieres Monday, Sept. 5, at 9:30/8:30c
In preparation for his impossible climb featured in “Free Solo,” renowned mountain climber Alex Honnold (@alexhonnold) trained in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Witness the never-before-told story of Honnold’s “secret solo” and preparation for his generation-defining climb.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: The No Fall Zone
Episode Premieres Monday, Sept. 5, at 10/9c
Angel Collinson (@angelcollinson) is one of the most accomplished big mountain freestyle skiers in the world. While in Alaska, Collinson had a fall that sent her tumbling 1,000 feet down the side of a mountain. Collinson looks back on the accident and reflects how it triggered an awakening and a new phase of her life.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Fight or Die
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 10/9
(Note: Series shifts into its regular Tuesday slot.)
Professional whitewater kayaker Gerd Serrasolses (@gerdserrasolses) was filming in Chiapas, Mexico, when he nearly drowned running a 50-foot waterfall. Knocked unconscious, he survived three and a half minutes underwater and was revived by his teammates. Now, Serrasolses looks back on his experience and shares how it forced him to reevaluate risk.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Return to Life
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 10:30/9:30c
Legendary climber Conrad Anker (@conrad_anker) has been pushing the limits of mountaineering for the last 30 years. While hanging from the side of Lunag Ri, the tallest unclimbed peak in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 20,000 feet, Anker suffered a heart attack. Witness as he recounts what he learned from that trip and his astonishing self-rescue.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Riding the Avalanche
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 10/9c
In 2016, big-mountain freeride snowboarder Travis Rice (@travisrice) was riding in the backcountry of Alaska when he was catapulted into an avalanche. Rice reflects on the near-fatal mistake that forced him into unknown territory and shares how the traumatic event has shaped his approach to big mountain riding and life.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Will Power
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 10:30/9:30c
Mountain athlete Will Gadd (@realwillgadd) was attempting a first ascent of the 430-foot frozen waterfall Helmcken Falls in British Columbia. Gadd recounts twists and turns that came between him and his goal to ascend the hardest mixed ice and rock climb in the world.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Eaten by Jaws
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 20, at 10/9c
French surfer Justine Dupont (@justinedupont33) is one of the best big wave surfers in the world. At “Jaws,” a surf break in Hawaii notorious for its 50-foot waves and perfect tubes, a violent wipeout sent her to the hospital. With the gift of hindsight, she explores how this enormous setback allowed her to regroup and return to reach new heights professionally.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Live Another Day
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 20, at 10:30/9:30c
On a climb close to home, Academy Award-winning filmmaker, National Geographic photographer and professional mountain sports athlete Jimmy Chin (@jimmychin) was caught in a massive class four avalanche. How did he survive, and how did it change him? Watch as he unpacks the event and the transformation that it triggered within himself.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Deadly Waters
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 10/9c
In 2010, expedition kayaker Ben Stookesberry (@benstookesberry), along with his longtime kayaking collaborator Chris Korbulic (@ckorbulic), embarked on a two-month expedition through Africa with legendary adventurer Hendri Coetzee that left them changed forever. Over a decade later, they look back on this fateful trip and ponder what they learned from it.
Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin: Hunted in the Arctic
Episode Premieres Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 10:30/9:30c
Polar explorer Sarah McNair-Landry (@sarahmcnairlandry), along with her brother Eric, attempted to be the first to kite ski 2,000 miles across the Northwest Passage in the brutal freezing winter. Years later, she looks back on the crucial decision she was forced to make during their expedition while being hunted by an apex predator.
For more information, visit our press room at www.natgeotvpressroom.com and follow @NGC_PR on Twitter.
EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN is part of a diverse lineup of four unscripted projects from the acclaimed Vasarhelyi and Chin as a result of their first-look deal announced in 2019 following the success of Academy, BAFTA and multiple Emmy Award-winning film “Free Solo.” The dynamic unscripted slate directed by the pair and produced by their production company, Little Monster Films, includes two feature documentaries, THE RESCUE and TOMPKINS, along with EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN and a series titled PHOTOGRAPHER.
EDGE OF THE UNKNOWN WITH JIMMY CHIN is produced by Little Monster Films for National Geographic. For Little Monster Films, Pagan Harleman and Anna Barnes are executive producers, and Gene Gallerano is supervising producer. For National Geographic, Chris Kugelman is executive producer, and Matt Renner is vice president of Production. Alan Eyres is senior vice president of Production and Development.
About Little Monster Films
Founded by Academy Award winners E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, Little Monster Films is a full-service production company committed to telling character-driven stories underneath the backdrop of thrilling and otherworldly visuals. Working in both the unscripted and scripted arenas, their mission is to capture humanity at its best, aiming to reflect a diverse world both in front of and behind the camera, they strive to present grounded narratives with intensity and depth while showcasing the extraordinary among us and the power of what we can individually achieve.
About Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin
Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin are the directors and producers of the Academy Award- and BAFTA-winning film FREE SOLO from National Geographic Documentary Films. The film earned the highest per-screen average of any documentary during its opening weekend (Sept. 28, 2018) and took home seven Emmy Awards in 2019.
Vasarhelyi’s films as a director include “Meru” (Oscars shortlist 2016, Sundance Audience Award 2015); “Incorruptible” (Truer Than Fiction Independent Spirit Award 2016); “Youssou N’Dour: I Bring What I Love” (Oscilloscope 2009), which premiered at the Telluride and Toronto Film Festivals; “A Normal Life” (Tribeca Film Festival, Best Documentary 2003); and “Touba” (SXSW, Special Jury Prize Best Cinematography 2013).
Chin is a professional climber, skier, mountaineer, longtime member of The North Face Athlete Team and National Geographic Explorer. Consistently over the past 20 years, Chin has led or participated in cutting-edge climbing and ski mountaineering expeditions to all seven continents and made the first and only American ski descent from the summit of Mount Everest. He is also a filmmaker and National Geographic photographer. He has worked with many of the greatest explorers, adventurers and athletes of our time, documenting their exploits in the most challenging conditions and locations in the world. Vasarhelyi and Chin’s 2015 documentary, “Meru,” won the Audience Award at Sundance and was nominated for best documentary by the DGA and PGA. “Meru” was also shortlisted for an Oscar.
About National Geographic Partners LLC:
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 134 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
ABC News Launches ABC News Studios With 100+ Programming Hours
Three Feature Documentaries and 15 Series in Production Across ABC, Hulu, Disney+, National Geographic
ABC News Studios’ Feature Documentaries Will be Housed Under ABC News Films Banner
Irene Taylor, Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Stanley Nelson and Dawn Porter Among Initial Roster of Filmmakers and Directors
ABC News announced today the launch of ABC News Studios, a premium, narrative non-fiction originals producer and commissioner of feature documentary films, series and specials on topics spanning true-crime, investigations, pop culture and news-adjacent stories. ABC News Studios will deliver more than 100 hours of programming across ABC, Hulu, Disney+ and National Geographic in 2022.
ABC News Studios, inspired by ABC News’ trusted reporting, produces and commissions best-in-class narrative non-fiction originals that entertain, inform and inspire, championing untold, authentic and diverse stories that drive the cultural zeitgeist.
Three feature documentaries and 15 series and specials are currently in production. ABC News Studios’ initial slate of feature documentaries taps Dawn Porter, Irene Taylor, Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, and Stanley Nelson.
Reena Mehta is senior vice president of streaming and digital content, and Mike Kelley is the vice president and lead of ABC News Studios. Mehta has an extensive background in content strategy and planning from HBOMax and Nickelodeon. Kelley has experience in global partnerships and distribution from ITV Studios and strategy and programming at PBS and will oversee the creative and business direction for ABC News Studios.
David Sloan will serve as senior executive producer and creative lead of ABC News Studios. Jacqueline Glover is head of documentary for Onyx Collective and oversaw the initial slate of feature documentary films for ABC News Films.
“ABC News Studios is a testament to our strategic investment in and commitment to meet the audience’s demand for bold storytelling and straightforward journalism whenever, wherever and on whatever device,” said Kim Godwin, ABC News president. “I’m excited to leverage the power and integrity of the No. 1 news network in America to create premium and distinctive content for all communities.”
ABC News Studios soft-launched in 2021 and early 2022 with successful projects across ABC and Hulu, from documentary films like “Aftershock,” “Jacinta” and “Leave No Trace” to series including “City of Angels | City of Death,” “The Fatal Flaw: A Special Edition of 20/20,” “Keeper of the Ashes: The Oklahoma Girl Scout Murders,” “Let The World See,” “Mormon No More” and “Wild Crime” to specials like “The Housewife and the Hustler,” “The Ivana Trump Story: The First Wife,” “The Kardashians” and “Truth and Lies: The Last Gangster,” as well as George Stephanopoulos Productions’ “Alec Baldwin Unscripted,” “The Informant: Fear and Faith in the Heartland,” and “Out of the Shadows: The Man Behind The Steele Dossier.”
“We’re laser-focused on ABC News Studios contributing premier non-fiction content to linear and streaming subscriber growth and engagement for ABC and the Disney company at large,” said Reena Mehta, ABC News senior vice president of streaming and digital content. “Our wide range of captivating original programming draws on the legacy of ABC News with best-in-class storytelling.”
“ABC News Studios, and its subsidiary ABC News Films, debut slate of 100+ hours of programming this year is a tremendous achievement,” said Mike Kelley, vice president and ABC News Studios lead. “We plan to premiere at least one new title from ABC News Studios each month only on Hulu and continue to launch hits on the network. I’m energized by the creativity from the teams inside ABC News and our third-party production partners to build out further an expansive content pipeline.”
The following docu-series are in production or preparing for launch (in alphabetical order):
“The Age of Influence” (Hulu): “The Age of Influence” is a six-part documentary series that breaks open the facade and reveals the truth behind influencer culture through intimate, first-person accounts of some the biggest social media stories of our time.
“Cinderella” (ABC): 2022 marks the 25th anniversary of ABC airing Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” (1997), a revolutionary TV musical that embraced racial diversity in casting and has impacted generations over the years, starring an all-star cast led by Brandy Norwood as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her fairy godmother. ABC News is producing a news special dedicated to the legacy of this film, reflecting how the idea of a princess has evolved and what makes the film still relevant today.
“The Con” (season 2) (ABC): “The Con” explores the troubling tales of people deceived by false claims, broken promises and greed. Each episode reveals how the victims were fooled and the cost of that trust — emotional and financial. Award-winning moderator of “The View” Whoopi Goldberg returns to narrate with commentary from podcaster Laci Mosely (“Scam Goddess”). This series of tales that continue to stun will premiere in July 2022.
“Death in the Dorms” (Hulu): These are the stories of the kind of danger that no college student is ever prepared for: a life cut short just when it was getting started, not by accident but by foul play. Each procedural episode of “Death in the Dorms” will examine a different murder of a college student in the U.S.
“Demons and Saviors” (Hulu): A three-part limited true-crime series details the fascination with Christina Boyer. Boyer became a household name for her telekinesis as a teenager and the alleged murder of her own infant daughter in Boyer’s early 20s, a crime she maintains she did not commit. The series details the unlikely band of amateur sleuths obsessed with setting her free.
“Explorer” (National Geographic): National Geographic’s long-running, iconic “Explorer” franchise searches for answers to some of the world’s greatest mysteries of history, science and adventure. Pushing beyond the frontier of the known, “Explorer” will cover timely topics, often accompanied by a feature story in National Geographic magazine, further deepening viewers’ understanding of the world through provocative storytelling.
“Grails” (Hulu): “Grails” goes behind the scenes of the $60 billion sneaker industry with up-and-coming entrepreneurs Earl Cooper and Olajuwon Ajanaku, two Morehouse College golf champ grads who created the lifestyle brand Eastside Golf to promote diversity and authenticity on the golf course. After landing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, they’re now making history by becoming the first to ever collaborate with the iconic Jordan Brand in designing a series of golf sneakers and streetwear apparel for the golf industry.
“IMPACT x Nightline” (Hulu): A weekly news magazine offering hard-hitting investigative reports, deep dives on stories in the news cycle, profiles of newsmakers, and celebrity interviews. It’s the stories you’re talking about and the ones you soon will be. The show never takes place in a studio; it’s instead always out in the world.
“Murder U” (working title) (Hulu): Investigative psychologist and ex-FBI profiler Bryanna Fox and her class of next-gen criminal mind hunters examine cases of convicted serial murders that have troubling unanswered questions. Why did this killer do what he did? How did he select his victims? Are there other victims he killed who have never been identified?
“The Murders Before the Marathon” (Hulu): Journalist Susan Zalkind investigates the triple murder that took her friend’s life, the national tragedy that shook her city, and the haunting question that connects the two events: if the murders had been solved, could the Boston Marathon bombing could have been prevented? “The Murders Before The Marathon” is a three-part documentary series directed by Jesse Sweet and executive produced by Story Syndicate, the production house founded by Oscar® and Emmy® Award-winning filmmakers Dan Cogan and Liz Garbus, Anonymous Content, and Matt Cook.
“Superstar” (ABC): From the producers of ABC News’ No. 1-rated “20/20” and “Truth and Lies,” “Superstar” features rare footage and intimate details about the mavericks who shaped American culture. The series travels deep inside the lives of icons and features interviews with friends and family who reveal the meteoric highs and the devastating costs of fame.
Untitled George Stephanopoulos Project (Hulu): This political docu-series will chronicle the upcoming midterm election. It will look at the important races, pivotal issues and evolving landscape of this consequential election.
Untitled Scott Johnson Project (Hulu): In 1988, the body of Scott Johnson, a 27-year-old gay American doctoral student, was found sprawled below a cliff on a rugged beach in Sydney, Australia. This new multipart series delves into what really happened to Scott and explores the dark history of homophobia in Sydney.
“Web of Death” (Hulu): Relentless and ingenious web sleuths crack America’s most uncrackable murder cases using the internet and social media. These are tales of colossal viral man hunts, decades-long obsessions and unparalleled global collaboration.
“Wild Crime” (season 2) (Hulu): The second season premiering this fall will follow one of the ISB’s most notable and complex investigations that unfolded over 40 years across two generations of investigators after human remains were found in 1983 in Summit Meadow at Yosemite National Park. The victim’s identity and the serial killer responsible will only now both be revealed.
The following documentaries are in production or preparing for launch (in alphabetical order):
“The Lady Bird Diaries” (working title) (Hulu): From award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter, Trilogy Films, and Industrial Media comes a groundbreaking documentary film that uses Lady Bird’s own White House tapes to tell the story of one of the most influential and least understood first ladies in history. The film is based, in part, on the ABC News podcast “In Plain Sight: Lady Bird Johnson,” hosted by author and historian Julia Sweig.
Untitled Iwájú Documentary (Disney+): From the team behind the hit Disney+ series “Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2” comes a documentary about the first-of-its-kind collaboration between Pan-African comic book company Kugali and the century-old Walt Disney Animation Studios as they create the upcoming animated series “Iwájú.”
“Sound of the Police” (Hulu): Directed by Oscar-nominated Stanley Nelson, “Sound of the Police” digs deep into America’s long and painful history of police brutality and misconduct in Black communities.
ABC News Studios is pleased to produce a significant portion of the slate and to work with partners like Part 2, IPC, Latchkey Films, Brainstormin’ Productions, Lonewolf Media, Story Syndicate, and Show of Force.
For more information, follow ABC News Studios on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn
ABOUT ABC NEWS STUDIOS
ABC News Studios, inspired by ABC News’ trusted reporting, is a premium, narrative non-fiction original production house and commissioning partner of series and specials. ABC News Studios champions untold and authentic stories driving the cultural zeitgeist spanning true-crime, investigations, pop culture, and news-adjacent stories. Its subsidiary, ABC News Films, acquires and produces feature documentary films.
“Cesar Millan: Better Human Better Dog” Returns for a “Pawesome” Season Two on National Geographic
This season brings 12 all-new episodes with a fur-miliar dog behavioral specialist in the business, César Millán.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
César Millán: Better Human Better Dog Returns for a ‘Pawesome’ Season Two on National Geographic Watch as César Transforms Troubled Dogs Into Poised, Peaceful Pups
Back-to-Back Episodes Premiere Friday, July 22, at 9/8c
Catch Up With Previous Season Available on Disney+
WASHINGTON — Today, National Geographic announced the second season of its fur-ever favorite series, CÉSAR MILLÁN: BETTER HUMAN BETTER DOG, premiering July 22 at 9/8c on National Geographic. This season brings 12 all-new episodes with a fur-miliar dog behavioral specialist in the business, César Millán. All-new episodes will air back-to-back on Fridays at 9/8c and 10/9c on National Geographic, and encore Saturdays at 10/9c and 11/10c on Nat Geo WILD.
Following its epic series debut, this season brings all-new cases at César’s famed California ranch retreat for dogs, Dog Psychology Center, where canines come in with their troubles and leave on their best behavior. Watch as César uses the latest research in animal psychology to work with not only pets but, more importantly, their owners to find respect and harmony between the two parties.
Transformations include those like an aggressive Rhodesian Ridgeback who learns to trust his owner; a dog that bites and mounts anyone that comes close finally lets his “guard” down and lets his owner in; owners of a German Shepherd develop calming-confidence techniques to keep their dog from peeing inappropriately, and more.
Episode descriptions and premiere dates are as follows:
“Best Friend Bodyguard” Premieres Friday, July 22, at 9/8c
César sets out to help a pair of packs. One is desperate to fix their fearful and aggressive Rhodesian Ridgeback named Simba, whose trust issues with his pet parent have created a fiercely overprotective hostility that threatens anyone who crosses his path. The other pack is being held hostage by an anxious and confused mini schnauzer named Otto.
“Guard of the Yard” Premieres Friday, July 22, at 10/9c
César rehabs Hendrix, a self-made guard dog that bites and mounts anyone and everyone that comes near because the family was afraid and isolated him. César teaches Hendrix to let his guard down and be a respectful dog again while helping Genesis, the owner, to put aside her fear and rediscover the leader within.
“Frozen in Fear” Premieres Friday, July 29, at 9/8c
César is called in to help out two professional ballroom dancers who took on more than they could handle by adopting Zoe, a Chihuahua who is petrified of the world around her. César uses traditional and nontraditional methods to transform her into a calmer, happier and more obedient dog that will be able to be with her pet parent at the dance studio.
“Bitten By Love” Premieres Friday, July 29, at 10/9c
César helps a desperate couple with a newborn baby whose Corgi has bitten his pet parent over 30 times. After removing the dog from their home, César realizes that the mother’s energy and past are working against them. And later, César comes to the aid of two private dog park owners and their German spitz mix who’s policing of the park has become a liability for the business.
“Ten Years to Life” Premieres Friday, Aug. 5, at 9/8c
César helps the Mayo family with their pit bull Molly, who’s been confined to the backyard for 10 years after an incident at a dog park. César teaches the pet parents how to take a leadership role, and Molly returns to her back-of-the-pack position. César next shows Craig and Shannon Callahan how to use calm confidence to keep their German shepherd Jeffrey from peeing inappropriately.
“Dog Therapy” Premieres Friday, Aug. 5, at 10/9c
César sets out to help a pair of young, rambunctious dogs – a chocolate Lab and a golden retriever – and their overwhelmed pet parents, pushed to the brink of breakdown by the pandemic. César devises a unique way for the pet parents to take control as pack leaders and gain the much-needed respect from the dogs that has been sorely lacking in the relationship.
“Moving Forward” Premieres Friday, Aug. 12, at 9/8c
César helps a grieving couple with their nervous Shar-Pei. The death of his pack leader left him feeling lost, which caused him to lash out in fear against his own pet parent. And later, a pit bull’s quirky, backward behavior is a tripping hazard for her pet parent who lost his leg in a bad accident. César teaches both families how to move forward in their own calm, confident way.
“Ticking Bomb” Premieres Friday, Aug. 12, at 10/9c
César is called out to a red zone case involving two powerful breeds who have begun fighting, hunting and killing small animals in their backyard. They have now turned their aggression onto each other causing chaos amongst the household and César needing to get some air. Also, César meets a retired couple whose retirement has been anything but pleasant as their terrier has shut their world down.
“Appetite for Destruction” Premieres Friday, Aug. 19, at 9/8c
In Laguna Hills, a four-dog pack destroys everything it can. Pet parent Sherry must recognize her own anxiety in order to calm down the entire household. Then, in La Cañada, the Lee family, including two young girls, is being pulled into traffic by their pack during walks. Mother Gina must learn to lead with confidence if her dogs and her children are going to be safe.
“Silent Biter” Premieres Friday, Aug. 19, at 10/9c
César helps a couple who is afraid for their young son because their poodle-chihuahua mix feels the need to protect his nervous mother. And later, a family of four adopted a husky to bring them together after a divorce, but his escape-artist ways are pulling them apart.
“Avocado Aggression” Premieres Friday, August 26, at 9/8c
César rehabs a Doberman who can’t stop scanning for threats – and finding them in his own home in the form of a packmate. It’s a true emergency with violent fights erupting between the brothers while the couple’s two young children play nearby. Later, César intervenes when a Jindo-pit mix, a nervous wreck, threatens his owner’s relocation plans.
“Unleash the Hulk” Premieres Friday, Aug. 26, at 10/9c
César sets out to help a young bulldog named Jaxx, who has been keeping his family prisoner in their own home. His pet parent, Priscilla, has been so controlled by her fears that Jaxx is now confused and aggressive. It is up to César to help the two create a calming environment led by boundaries and clear direction.
About National Geographic Partners LLC:
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 133 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
About César Millán:
With more than 25 years of experience and with his brand-new TV show, “Better Human, Better Dog” now on National Geographic & Disney+; César Millán is a household name and 3x Emmy nominated internationally acclaimed star of several hit TV series broadcasted and streamed in over 120 countries. A New York Times #1 best-selling author, and accomplished global public speaker, Millán is also an entrepreneur with an innovative product line including his widely popular and exclusive training courses under his Training César’s Way brand. César Millán is one of the most sought-after authorities in the field of dog behavior and rehabilitation. He is the only world-renowned celebrity dog behaviorist and has taken it to another level with his mission through the César Millán Foundation for better humans, better planet.
Through his teachings, millions of people have learned that energy is everything. He is committed to spreading his message of calm, confidence, love, and joy in everything we do, which is what you will find at his ever growing 43-acre paradise, the Dog Psychology Center in Santa Clarita. By understanding animals and nature, he has enabled himself to see humanity and understand all of its facets and complications.
César has grown into a pop culture phenomenon and a go to for many of today’s celebrities, athletes, world leaders, and entrepreneurs. From flattering parodies on “South Park” and “Saturday Night Live”; references on popular shows including “Jeopardy!” and “The Colbert Report”; and appearances on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” “Dr. Oz,” “The Today Show,” “The View,” and “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”; Univision, Telemundo, HOLA USA and others. 25 years into his journey, you will find César only spreading more of his message and continuing to grow his massive social media following of over 19+ million people across the globe. César moves forward in his journey with purpose and you can follow this journey at cesarsway.com.
Adventurer Bear Grylls Returns with an Epic New Season of National Geographic’s “Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge”
Natalie Portman, Simu Liu, Ashton Kutcher, Florence Pugh, Anthony Anderson and Rob Riggle are featured this season, due on July 25.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
Adventurer Bear Grylls Returns With an Epic New Season of National Geographic’s RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS: THE CHALLENGE
Natalie Portman, Simu Liu, Ashton Kutcher, Florence Pugh, Anthony Anderson and Rob Riggle Must Face New Heart-Racing Survival Challenges This Season
RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS: THE CHALLENGE Premieres With Academy Award(R) Winner Natalie Portman on July 25 at 9/8c on National Geographic
All Episodes Will Stream on Aug. 10 Exclusively on Disney+
WASHINGTON — Fan-favorite survivalist Bear Grylls is back with more bold and exciting episodes of the hit series “Running Wild with Bear Grylls.” Except this season, he is kicking things up a notch by introducing RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS: THE CHALLENGE. Premiering on National Geographic and Disney+, Bear takes the daring adventures up a level by teaching celebrity guests essential survival skills that they will have to master and then prove they can use in a high-stress situation.
RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS: THE CHALLENGE premieres Monday, July 25, at 9/8c on National Geographic with first guest The Mighty Thor Natalie Portman (“Thor: Love and Thunder”). Following the premiere, weekly episodes will feature fellow Marvel superhero Simu Liu (“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”), actor Ashton Kutcher (“Two and a Half Men”), Oscar(R)-nominee for “Little Women” Florence Pugh (“Black Widow”), actor Anthony Anderson (“black-ish”), and actor and comedian Rob Riggle (“Holey Moley”). All episodes of the newest season will stream Aug. 10 only on Disney+.
This season, guests will not only be pushed physically and mentally – like plunging into a frozen lake in the Canadian Rockies or foraging for food in the deserts of the Great Basin – but Bear will be testing each on their survival skills. This time, they will be tested beyond other guests: after Bear teaches each of them a key set of skills, they will then have to master them on their own and deploy those skills at a high-intensity moment to earn their extraction from the wilderness.
The celebrity guest lineup and challenges include the following:
NATALIE PORTMAN IN SOUTHERN UTAH
Premieres July 25 at 9/8c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Bear takes Academy Award(R) winner Natalie Portman into the slot canyons of Southern Utah. Their adventure begins when Bear leaps from his helicopter onto Natalie’s 4×4. They trek into the Escalante desert, where Bear teaches Natalie piton placements, rope system transfers and fire starting while descending various canyons. Natalie uses her new skills as they ascend a mountain and attempt to light a signal fire for extraction.
SIMU LIU IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
Premieres Aug. 1 at 9/8c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Bear takes Marvel superhero Simu Liu to the Canadian Rockies. As the adventure begins, they must trigger an avalanche to clear a path to a ravine and find an old cabin or risk hypothermia as temperatures drop below -20. The next day, Bear sets the ultimate arctic challenge: Simu must strip down to plunge into a frozen lake and then navigate to a dogsled team to whisk them back to civilization.
ASHTON KUTCHER IN THE COASTAL JUNGLES OF COSTA RICA
Premieres Aug. 8 at 9/8c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Ashton Kutcher joins Bear to challenge the coastal jungles of Costa Rica. Their adventure begins with a helicopter jump into the Pacific Ocean. Once they swim ashore, they must canoe up a river to fish for their dinner, then descend a 300-foot cliff into the jungle. The next day, Bear sets up a commando crawl rope challenge. Ashton must use all the strength he can muster to cross a massive ravine.
FLORENCE PUGH IN THE VOLCANIC RAINFORESTS OF COSTA RICA
Premieres Aug. 15 at 9/8c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Rappelling from a helicopter, Bear takes Florence Pugh to the volcanic rainforests of Costa Rica. Bear shows Florence how to traverse rapids, test river depth with a rope and rock, and avoid poisonous snakes and deep cliff edges. Crossing an alligator-infested swamp, they catch eel for dinner. On day two, Florence must test the depth of a waterfall pool before choosing to leap from a high cliff into a set of rapids below. Finally, they jump out of an airplane at 10,000 feet to their extraction.
ANTHONY ANDERSON IN THE SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS
Premieres Aug. 22 at 9/8c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Anthony Anderson joins Bear in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Tossing their backpacks from the helicopter, Bear challenges Anthony to survive with just a rope and compass. On the ground, Bear teaches Anthony navigation and knot-tying skills. On day two, Bear leaves Anthony to use his new skills to secure his climb up a sheer rock face. Anthony will dig deep to make it to their extraction point.
ROB RIGGLE IN THE GREAT BASIN DESERT
Premieres Aug. 22 at 10/9c on National Geographic
Streams Aug. 10 only on Disney+
Bear puts Rob Riggle through survival tests in the Great Basin to prepare for Rob’s latest movie role. They begin by rappelling from a helicopter to travel west, where Riggle learns the ropes and then faces an even bigger ropes challenge. Once on the canyon floor, Bear teaches Rob river crossing skills, foraging for food and building a rudimentary shelter. The next day, Rob must evade being spotted by Bear or face his fear of skydiving.
Previous seasons of RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS are currently streaming on Disney+ with guests that include Channing Tatum, Brie Larson, Anthony Mackie, Dave Bautista, Cara Delevingne, Bobby Bones, Terry Crews, Rainn Wilson, Keegan-Michael Key and more.
RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS: THE CHALLENGE was developed by Bear Grylls and Delbert Shoopman. The series is produced by Electus, a Propagate Company, and The Natural Studios. For Electus and The Natural Studios, Bear Grylls serves as executive producer along with Chris Grant, Drew Buckley, Ben Silverman, Howard Owens, Liz Schulze, Rob Buchta and Delbert Shoopman. For National Geographic, Bengt Anderson and Sean David Johnson are executive producers.
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 134 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
About Bear Grylls
Bear Grylls has become known worldwide as one of the most recognized faces of survival and outdoor adventure. His journey to this acclaim started on a small island off the U.K. coast where his late father taught him to climb and sail. Trained from a young age in martial arts, Grylls spent three years as a soldier in the British Special Forces as part of 21st SAS Regiment. It was here that he perfected many of the survival skills that his fans all over the world enjoy as he pitted himself against the worst of Mother Nature. Despite a free-fall parachuting accident in Africa, where he broke his back in three places and endured many months in military rehabilitation, Grylls went on to become one of the youngest climbers ever to reach the summit of Mount Everest. He then went on to star in seven seasons of the Discovery Channel’s Emmy award-nominated “Man vs. Wild” TV series, which became one of the most watched shows on the planet, reaching an estimated 1.2 billion viewers. Since then, he has hosted more extreme adventure TV shows across more global networks than anyone else in the world including the Emmy-nominated Netflix series “You Vs Wild”, “Man vs. Wild” for Discovery Channel, “Running Wild” for Nat Geo and “Into the Wild” for the Asian TV market. He is a No. 1 best-selling author, an honorary colonel to the Royal Marine Commandos and the youngest ever chief scout, an inspiration to 55 million scouts worldwide.
National Geographic Documentary Films Announces Emmy Doc Contender “We Feed People” to Expand to Hulu and the National Geographic Channel This Month
The film will become available on Hulu starting June 16 as well as through a special screening on National Geographic Channel on Friday, June 17, at 9 p.m. EDT, in addition to continued streaming on Disney+.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
National Geographic Documentary Films Announces Emmy Doc Contender WE FEED PEOPLE to Expand to Hulu and the National Geographic Channel This Month
The Doc Feature From Ron Howard and Imagine Documentaries Highlighting José Andrés and World Central Kitchen is Currently Streaming on Disney+
WASHINGTON — Today, National Geographic Documentary Films announced that WE FEED PEOPLE, the critically acclaimed documentary from Academy Award(R)-winning director Ron Howard featuring world-renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés, will become available on Hulu starting June 16 as well as through a special screening on National Geographic Channel on Friday, June 17, at 9 p.m. EDT, in addition to continued streaming on Disney+.
WE FEED PEOPLE spotlights renowned chef José Andrés and his nonprofit World Central Kitchen’s inspiring mission and remarkable evolution over 12 years, from a scrappy group of grassroots volunteers to one of the most highly regarded humanitarian aid organizations focused on disaster relief. Brian Grazer, Imagine Documentaries’ Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes and Meredith Kaulfers, and Walter Matteson serve as producers alongside Howard.
“I’m thrilled that we are able to share the inspiring story of chef José and his remarkable team at World Central Kitchen to an even wider audience with the release of the film on the National Geographic Channel and Hulu,” said director Ron Howard. “In telling this story, I’ve been inspired by the work of World Central Kitchen, currently leading extraordinary relief efforts in both Ukraine and Uvalde, and the lessons we can learn from their humanitarian acts. I believe in the power of community when we all come together to support each other; it’s a story we can all learn something from and aspire to.”
Released on May 27 on Disney+, the film has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews since its premiere at the SXSW Film Festival in March and has retained a 100% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Featuring an incredibly powerful story of humanity, volunteerism and global relief efforts, the film is a leading contender in the documentary special race for this year’s Emmy(R) Awards.
“We feel so honored to bring the remarkable story of José Andrés and World Central Kitchen to the world,” said Carolyn Bernstein, EVP, Scripted and Documentary Films at National Geographic. “The immensely talented Ron Howard, our longtime collaborator, beautifully captures the groundbreaking work that WCK is doing on a global scale to help those affected by natural and man-made disasters. We can’t wait for audiences around the world to witness this inspiring story of hope and humanity through Hulu and the National Geographic channel.”
National Geographic Documentary Films previously released the Academy Award, BAFTA and seven-time Emmy Award-winning film “Free Solo” and the Academy Award-nominated film “The Cave.” In 2021, they released “Becoming Cousteau,” “Fauci,” “The First Wave,” “The Rescue” and “Torn.” Other critically acclaimed films under the banner include Ron Howard’s “Rebuilding Paradise”; Sundance Audience Award winners “Science Fair” and “Sea of Shadows”; Emmy winners “LA 92” and “Jane,” both of which were included in the top 15 documentaries considered for an Academy Award in 2017; and Dupont Award winner “Hell on Earth: The Fall of Syria and the Rise of Isis.”
About National Geographic Documentary Films
National Geographic Documentary Films is committed to bringing the world premium, feature documentaries that cover timely, provocative and globally relevant stories from the very best documentary filmmakers in the world. National Geographic Documentary Films is a division of National Geographic Partners, a joint venture between Disney and the National Geographic Society. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 133 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
National Geographic Greenlights Second Season of “Life Below Zero: First Alaskans” Ahead of Its Series Premiere on Monday, May 30, at 8/7c
A spin-off of the fan-favorite and multiple Emmy Award-winning franchise, the series brings viewers to the unforgiving Alaskan landscape, giving them the unique opportunity to enter a world that Indigenous Alaskans have inhabited for thousands of years but one which is rapidly changing every day.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GREENLIGHTS SECOND SEASON OF “LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS” AHEAD OF ITS SERIES PREMIERE ON MONDAY, MAY 30, AT 8/7c
Produced by BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions, the Series Is a Spinoff of Fan-Favorite and Emmy(R) Award-Winning Franchise LIFE BELOW ZERO and Follows Indigenous Alaska Natives
LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS, the First Non-Fiction Series Focused on a Cast of Alaskan Natives, Airs Tuesdays at 8/7c Beginning on May 31
(Washington D.C. – Thursday, May 26, 2022) National Geographic announced today the greenlight of a second season of the new franchise spinoff LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS ahead of the series premiere on May 30 at 8/7c, with back-to-back episodes on National Geographic before it moves to Tuesdays at 8/7c beginning on May 31.
A spinoff of the fan-favorite and multiple Emmy Award-winning franchise LIFE BELOW ZERO, LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS brings viewers to the unforgiving Alaskan landscape, giving them the unique opportunity to enter a world that Indigenous Alaskans have inhabited for thousands of years but one which is rapidly changing every day. LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS follows new Alaska Natives as they use sophisticated techniques and methods passed down from generation to generation to thrive in some of the most brutal environments. Indigenous Alaskans walk in two worlds: one of traditional ways and one of 21st-century challenges.
“The heart of the LIFE BELOW ZERO franchise has always been the ingenuity, resilience and spirit of the individuals who survive and thrive in one of the harshest and most beautiful environments in the world, which Alaska Natives have been doing for thousands of years,” says Alan Eyres, senior vice president of Production and Development, National Geographic. “With this second season of LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS, we are honored to have been given the opportunity to capture more of the daily lives, cultures, customs and traditions of our Alaska Native cast members and allow our audience to hear more of their stories.”
“With our commitment to honoring the traditions of the Natives peoples and communities who have trusted us to share their stories, FIRST ALASKANS represents an important new chapter in our LIFE BELOW ZERO franchise, known for capturing the majesty of the Alaskan wilderness and chronicling the lives of those who call it home,” said Valerie Bruce, General Manager, BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions. “This season 2 greenlight affirms the strength of the LIFE BELOW ZERO franchise we have built over the past decade with our supportive partners at National Geographic and reflects our shared belief in the brand and what it stands for.”
LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS is the first nonfiction series on the network with a cast of Alaska Natives at its focus as the crew and cameras are granted access into a whole new world of storytelling, cultures and customs. The series not only features Indigenous peoples on camera but also prioritizes diversity within the production and is partnering with a variety of cultural consultants and language translators to help bring these incredible stories to light in each episode. The core production team includes Native field and post producers as well as Native graphic designers, musicians and storytellers to create a cohesive and authentic feel that highlights multiple rich and historic cultures.
LIFE BELOW ZERO: FIRST ALASKANS marks the latest expansion of the long-term production partnership on the LIFE BELOW ZERO franchise between National Geographic and BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions. Joseph Litzinger executive produces the series. For BBC Studios LA Productions, Krystal Whitney is vice president of current programming, and Valerie Bruce is general manager. For National Geographic, Kevin Tao Mohs is executive producer, and Alan Eyres is senior vice president of production and development. Since its debut, LIFE BELOW ZERO has filmed more than 200 episodes and has earned seven Emmy Awards.
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About National Geographic Partners LLC:
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 133 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
About BBC Studios:
BBC Studios, a global content company with bold British creativity at its heart, is a commercial subsidiary of the BBC. Able to take an idea seamlessly from thought to screen and beyond, its activities span content financing, development, production, sales, branded services, and ancillaries across both its own productions and programs and formats made by high-quality UK independents. Award-winning British programs made by the business are internationally recognized across a broad range of genres and specializations, with brands like Dancing with the Stars/Strictly Come Dancing, Top Gear, and Doctor Who. BBC.com, BBC Studios’ global digital news platform, provides up-to-the-minute international news, in-depth analysis and features to more than 139 million unique browsers each month. BBC Studios has offices in 20 markets globally, including ten production bases in the UK and production bases or partnerships in a further nine countries around the world. The company, which ordinarily makes around 2,000 hours of content a year for both the BBC and third parties including Apple, Netflix, and Migu, is a champion for British creativity around the world. It is also a committed partner for the UK’s independent sector through a mix of equity partnerships, content investment, and international distribution for program titles. In the U.S, BBC Studios operates both a distribution business and one of its major production units. The production unit, based in Los Angeles, creates and produces adaptations of UK programs, as well as all new original programs, for linear and digital platforms in the U.S. This production unit is responsible for the phenomenally successful, Emmy(R)-winning Dancing with the Stars, the multi-award-winning Life Below Zero franchise, the revved up Top Gear America, and the popular reboot of the classic quiz show Weakest Link, among others. In scripted, the team has achieved success adapting British hits, including Call Me Kat (based on the UK format Miranda), Welcome to Flatch (This Country in the UK), and Ghosts for top U.S. broadcast networks. Follow us on Twitter: @BBCStudiosUSPR | BBC Studios Press Room
National Geographic Announces Slate of New Personality-Driven Content to Further Adventure and Exploration Themed Storytelling
The new series will feature Christian Cooper, Derek Hough, Jeff Jenkins, Kristen Kish and Indy Srinath, as well as high school competitors of a global science fair competition.
[via press release from National Geographic Channel]
National Geographic Announces Slate of New Personality-Driven Content to Further Adventure and Exploration Themed Storytelling
New Series Include:
DANCE THE WORLD WITH DEREK HOUGH, Taking Viewers on a Global Cultural Journey of the Origins of the Most Popular Dance Styles
RESTAURANTS AT THE END OF THE WORLD, With Host, Award-Winning Chef, Entrepreneur and Global Trailblazer Kristen Kish
UNTITLED JEFF JENKINS PROJECT, With Global Adventurer Jeff Jenkins, an Award-Winning Travel Blogger and Influencer
FARMING IS LIFE, With Urban Gardener and Influencer Indy Srinath
EXTRAORDINARY BIRDER, Hosted by Life-long NYC Birder Christian Cooper
AND From the Producers of Eponymous Emmy(R) Award-Winning Doc Film and No. 1 Audience Favorite at Sundance and SXSW Film Festivals: SCIENCE FAIR: THE SERIES
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Ahead of Disney’s Upfront presentation on Tuesday, May 17, in New York City, National Geographic Content President Courteney Monroe today announced a new slate of personality-driven shows to ignite curiosity, awe, and wonder and to inspire people to explore the world.
Powered by the successes of GORDON RAMSAY: UNCHARTED, TRAFFICKED WITH MARIANA VAN ZELLER and RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS, the new series will feature Christian Cooper, Derek Hough, Jeff Jenkins, Kristen Kish and Indy Srinath, as well as high school competitors of a global science fair competition. The series will premiere on one of National Geographic’s linear channels or on Disney+, with all eventually finding a permanent home on Disney+ under the National Geographic brand tile.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with this exciting new ensemble of National Geographic storytellers, sharing their captivating journeys with fans all around the world,” said Monroe. “Whether its exploring Derek’s passion for dance on a global scale, traveling with Kristin on culinary adventures in remote locales or simply being awed by the infectious enthusiasm of our Science Fair kids, all of these new shows represent the very best of National Geographic and our desire to ignite people’s curiosity in our world.”
National Geographic topped Beta Research’s Brand Identity Study chart, identifying the basic cable networks described as a favorite channel among viewers 18+. National Geographic channel was also among basic networks described as very valuable. Nat Geo WILD was also named as one of the most valuable digital basic networks.
New content includes the following:
DANCE THE WORLD WITH DEREK HOUGH (Produced by Walt Disney Television Alternative)
Dance is the lifeblood of every culture. Dance is a global connective tissue that brings families and strangers alike together. Derek Hough, renowned as one of the best dancers of his generation, will be our guide on a journey to discover the roots of the most popular dance styles and trends around the world from the cultures, environments and people who forged them. In each episode, Derek will team up with a celebrity guest to embark on a quest to uncover the global cultural traditions that shape dance. Unleashed and inspired, every step in their adventure will culminate in a once-in-a-lifetime spectacular performance.
Grant Kahler is executive producer and showrunner. For National Geographic, Betsy Forhan is executive producer, Charlie Parsons is vice president of development, and Alan Eyres is senior vice president of production and development.
RESTAURANTS AT THE END OF THE WORLD (World of Wonder)
Adventurous chef, entrepreneur and global trailblazer Kristen Kish travels the world in search of the people, places, culture and traditions behind the world’s most remote restaurants. Running any successful venture takes a certain tenacity and grit, but those who set up deep in the wild, cut off from the grid and normal supply lines, are in a class all their own. From local purveyors, farmers and herders to kitchen crew, managers and chefs, Kristen is going behind the scenes to meet the people, hear the stories and see the day-to-day balancing act required to keep food on the table in the most remote outposts on earth.
For World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell and Jeremy Simmons are executive producers. For Cinetic, Ross Fremer, Brian Oakes and Christine O’Malley are executive producers. For National Geographic, Betsy Forhan is executive producer, Charlie Parsons is vice president of development, and Alan Eyres is senior vice president of production and development.
UNTITLED JEFF JENKINS PROJECT (Hit + Run)
Travel blogger and influencer Jeff Jenkins didn’t even step foot on a plane until he was 20 years old, but ever since, he’s been embarking on an epic global odyssey seeking out destinations and adventures way outside his comfort zone. Guided by his philosophy that “life begins where your comfort zone ends,” Jeff will spend one week completing one epic adventure he never thought he could do and would scare most people. Along the way, experiencing out-of-the-box cultural experiences, Jeff will cross paths with larger-than-life-locals, sharing every awe-inspiring adventure with viewers.
For Hit+Run, Rob Shaftel and Jon Kroll are executive producers. For National Geographic, Sean D. Johnson is executive producer, Bengt Anderson is vice president of production, and Alan Eyres is senior vice president of production and development.
FARMING IS LIFE (Nobody’s Hero and ITV America)
The last year and a half have set a generational shift in motion, with millions of people taking a deeper look at how to live more intentionally and adventurously. Many people dream about living more in tune with and connected to nature, understanding how to grow food and improve the soil underneath our feet. But farming is hard. Despite all the beauty and wonder, the lifestyle comes with a steep learning curve, and families and livelihoods are on the line. FARMING IS LIFE follows farming expert and influencer Indy Srinath, aka Indy Officinalis, as she encounters aspiring farmers hoping to make their dreams a reality. From her childhood on a homestead in North Carolina, Indy apprenticed at farms across the country before running a 7-acre mushroom farm and a prominent community garden in downtown Los Angeles. In a cinematic tour across North America, Indy helps aqua, rooftop, indoor, homestead, suburban and foraging farmers who are at a breaking point. For Indy, solutions can transcend conventional forms through the solidarity of farmers helping farmers. This is a series for anyone who dreams of growing, rearing, harvesting and breeding because, to them, farming is life.
FARMING IS LIFE is produced by Nobody’s Hero and ITV America. Jonty Nash, Christopher Potts, Sarah Howell and Bill Pruitt are the executive producers. For National Geographic, Drew Jones is executive producer, and Janet Vissering is senior vice president of development and production.
EXTRAORDINARY BIRDER (Lucky 8)
Life-long birder Christian Cooper takes us into the wild, wonderful and unpredictable world of birds. Whether braving stormy seas in Alaska for puffins, trekking into rainforests in Puerto Rico for parrots, or scaling a bridge in Manhattan for a peregrine falcon, he does whatever it takes to learn about these extraordinary feathered creatures and show us the remarkable world in the sky above.
For Lucky 8, George Kralovansky, Irfan Rahman, Kimberly Woodard, Jon Kroll and Doug Veith are executive producers. For National Geographic, Pam Caragol is executive producer, and Janet Vissering is senior vice president of development and production.
SCIENCE FAIR: THE SERIES (Muck Media)
From the Directors and Producers of Emmy Award-Winning Documentary SCIENCE FAIR
Inspired by the Sundance Festival favorite and SXSW Audience Award-winning documentary SCIENCE FAIR comes a new series from directors Cristina Costantini and Darren Foster about the agony and ecstasy of the beloved and brainy teenage subculture of competitive science. In this new gripping docuseries, we follow the ups and downs of some of the most brilliant young innovators, engineers, and scientists on the road to the Big Show – the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). SCIENCE FAIR: THE SERIES follows a group of inspiring teens who represent a vast spectrum of ISEF hopefuls. In addition to U.S. competitors, the series follows several fierce international contenders who have already beaten out the competition in their own countries to make it to ISEF. The result is a global character-driven coming-of-age story playing out across a science fair season, from the birth of an idea to a cutting-edge research project ready to compete in the “Olympics of science fairs.”
For Muck Media, Cristina Costantini, Darren Foster, Jeffrey Plunkett and Meri Haitkin are executive producers. For National Geographic, Chris Kugelman is executive producer, Kevin Mohs is vice president of Production, and Alan Eyres is senior vice president of production and development.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES ‘NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PREMIUM WITH DISNEY+’
New Subscription Package Allows Fans Exclusive Access to Nat Geo’s Most Amazing Storytelling Online, Streaming and in Print, Delivered to their Home
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 13, 2022)–Today, National Geographic announces the launch of National Geographic Premium with Disney+ in the United States, a new subscription offering that delivers the best of National Geographic’s most inspiring and compelling storytelling where and when our fans want it- online, in app, streaming and in print, all with a single monthly, annual or two-year specially priced subscription.
National Geographic, the media company and lifestyle brand that has elevated innovative storytelling about people, places and projects that shape our world for over 134 years, aims to allow fans to connect, explore, and further engage with the world through this offering. Starting at $10.99 a month, the new subscription offers Disney+ access which features a host of Nat Geo original shows and documentaries plus all access to natgeo.com and the Nat Geo app, where fans can explore new topics or dive deep on their favorite topics – from science to space, travel and the environment – with new stories published daily. Subscribers will have access to a treasure trove of information on their preferred platforms that is crafted and penned by National Geographic’s team of experts, who create entertaining and educational content on the universe’s most interesting and pressing topics.
“At National Geographic we are constantly looking at new ways to enrich how we deliver our award-winning storytelling while giving our fans choice in both the formats and platforms. We want to inspire our subscribers to explore new topics, discover new places and provide historical perspectives that frame the what and why of today’s trending topics. We continue to expand our storytelling so that our content is even easier to access and engage with. National Geographic Premium with Disney+ is the latest offering in our vision to ensure that anyone, at any time, on any platform, can have access to in-depth, comprehensive and fact-based storytelling through one seamless experience.” –Julie Galvin, Vice President, Marketing at National Geographic Media
National Geographic Premium with Disney+ includes:
Disney+, including documentaries and shows from National Geographic only on Disney+
Exclusive content and access to natgeo.com, Nat Geo app, and full online archive
Curated weekly subscriber newsletter featuring National Geographic’s best stories
Annual subscribers will get 10 print issues of the National Geographic magazine per calendar year
NGKids publishes monthly, except the combined June/July and Dec/Jan issues
Special subscriber price for additional print subs (History, Nat Geo Kids, & Nat Geo Little Kids)
Special annual issue of the National Geographic magazine “Year In Pictures” issue (if subscribed in December, or if issue is unavailable, an item of greater or equal value)
Plus subscriber-only benefits such as exclusive events and discounts
Consumers are able to sign-up for National Geographic Premium with Disney+ today at natgeo.com/premium, immediately access premium content on the site and unlock the vast library of content on Disney+. For more information, visit natgeo.com/premium.
Offer valid only for new and returning Disney+ subscribers ages 18+ with no current active subscription. Additional terms apply.
About National Geographic MediaNat Geo Media is a worldwide digital, social and print publisher, operating in over 170 countries, with several print and digital products and over 1/2 a billion followers on social media. Our mission is to inspire curious fans of all ages through bold and innovative storytelling about people, places and projects that shape our world, and enable our fans to connect, explore, engage with and care about the world. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com, find us on the National Geographic app or visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn,Pinterest and TikTok
National Geographic’s “Explorer: The Deepest Cave” Follows Extreme Cave Explorer Bill Stone as He Attempts to Venture Deeper Under the Earth Than Anyone Has Ever Gone Before
The one-hour special premieres Monday, May 30 at 10:00/9:00c.
[via press release from National Geographic Partners]
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S “EXPLORER: THE DEEPEST CAVE” FOLLOWS EXTREME CAVE EXPLORER BILL STONE AS HE ATTEMPTS TO VENTURE DEEPER UNDER THE EARTH THAN ANYONE HAS EVER GONE BEFORE
The One-Hour Special Is the Newest Installment of National Geographic’s Long-Running EXPLORER Series
EXPLORER: THE DEEPEST CAVE Premieres May 30 at 10/9c on National Geographic and Will Stream This Summer on Disney+
(Washington, D.C. – Feb. 7, 2022) – Continuing National Geographic’s legacy of pushing beyond known frontiers to deliver bold, powerful stories, Nat Geo announced the newest chapter of its EXPLORER series. EXPLORER: THE DEEPEST CAVE will premiere May 30 at 10/9c and stream this summer exclusively on Disney+. The one-hour special follows renowned cave explorer Bill Stone as he and his team push the boundaries of what has ever been done before as they attempt one of the greatest achievements of modern exploration – to set a new world record by venturing into the bottom of what is thought to be the deepest cave in the world.
Deep in the uncharted depths of Cheve Cave in Mexico, the expedition team must navigate through over 12 miles of unexplored tight, twisting passages, sometimes in complete darkness, where one mistake can be deadly. During the dangerous and highly technical adventure, not only is Bill and the team trying to break the world record for venturing deeper than any other person on Earth, but the expedition’s other goal is to map everything the team sees to create both traditional 2D maps as well as CGI 3D models relative to the surface topography so others can study the cave and discover what its future holds.
For the three-month underground journey in the longest active subterranean push duration ever, Bill enlisted a team of 69 elite cavers from 9 different countries, including expert cavers Sean Lewis, Corey Hackley, Sonia Dudziak, Victor Bravo and Gilly Elor from countries around the world, including Mexico, Poland, Slovenia, Canada, Sweden and Russia. The expedition has been compared to climbing Mount Everest – but in reverse – and the pressure to conquer the cave will push all of them to the absolute limits of survival and sanity.
EXPLORER: THE DEEPEST CAVE is part of National Geographic’s long-running, iconic EXPLORER series, which continues to search for answers to some of the greatest mysteries of history, science and adventure around the world. The first part of the anthology series, EXPLORER: THE LAST TEPUI, streaming on Earth Day, April 22, only on Disney+, follows elite climber Alex Honnold (FREE SOLO) and a world-class climbing team led by National Geographic Explorer and climber Mark Synnott on a grueling mission deep in the Amazon jungle to help legendary biologist and National Geographic Explorer Bruce Means to the top of a massive “island in the sky” known as a tepui to search for undiscovered animal species.
EXPLORER: THE DEEPEST CAVE is produced by ABC News Studios for National Geographic. Jeanmarie Condon is senior executive producer, and Drew Pulley executive produces. The special is directed by Pablo Durana. For National Geographic, Bengt Anderson is executive producer.
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SOCIAL HANDLES AND HASHTAGS: #NatGeoExplorer #ExplorerDeepestCave @natgeotv
About National Geographic Partners
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 133 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
