Tag: Animal Planet

Discovery and AT&T Close WarnerMedia Transaction

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Discovery and AT&T Close WarnerMedia Transaction
The combination creates a premier standalone global media and entertainment company, Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc., which will begin trading on the Nasdaq with the start of trading on Monday, April 11, under the new ticker symbol “WBD.”
[via press release from Discovery, Inc.]

Discovery and AT&T Close WarnerMedia Transaction

Combination of Discovery and WarnerMedia Creates Warner Bros. Discovery, Global Leader in Entertainment and Streaming

Warner Bros. Discovery to Begin Trading on the Nasdaq as “WBD” on Monday, April 11

NEW YORK and DALLAS, April 8, 2022 – Today Discovery, Inc. and AT&T Inc.* (NYSE:T) announced that they have closed their transaction to combine the WarnerMedia business with Discovery. The combination creates a premier standalone global media and entertainment company, Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc., which will begin trading on the Nasdaq with the start of trading on Monday, April 11, under the new ticker symbol “WBD.”

Warner Bros. Discovery will create and distribute the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content, brands and franchises across television, film and streaming. The new company combines WarnerMedia’s premium entertainment, sports and news assets with Discovery’s leading non-fiction and international entertainment and sports businesses, including Discovery Channel, discovery+, Warner Bros. Entertainment, CNN, CNN+, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, Investigation Discovery, TLC, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others.

“Today’s announcement marks an exciting milestone not just for Warner Bros. Discovery but for our shareholders, our distributors, our advertisers, our creative partners and, most importantly, consumers globally,” said David Zaslav, Warner Bros. Discovery chief executive officer. “With our collective assets and diversified business model, Warner Bros. Discovery offers the most differentiated and complete portfolio of content across film, television and streaming. We are confident that we can bring more choice to consumers around the globe while fostering creativity and creating value for shareholders. I can’t wait for both teams to come together to make Warner Bros. Discovery the best place for impactful storytelling.”

“We are at the dawn of a new age of connectivity, and today marks the beginning of a new era for AT&T,” said John Stankey, AT&T chief executive officer. “With the close of this transaction, we expect to invest at record levels in our growth areas of 5G and fiber, where we have strong momentum, while we work to become America’s best broadband company. At the same time, we’ll sharpen our focus on returns to shareholders. We expect to invest for growth, strengthen our balance sheet and reduce our debt, all while continuing to pay an attractive dividend that puts us among the top dividend paying stocks in America.

“In WarnerMedia, Discovery inherits a talented and innovative team and a dynamic growing and global company that is well positioned to lead the transformation that’s taking place across media and entertainment, direct-to-consumer distribution and technology. The combination of the two companies will strengthen WarnerMedia’s established and leading position in media and streaming. And our shareholders will now have a significant stake in Warner Bros. Discovery and its future successes. We look forward to seeing what the WBD team accomplishes with these industry-leading assets.”

Under terms of the agreement, which was structured as a Reverse Morris Trust transaction, at close AT&T received $40.4 billion in cash and WarnerMedia’s retention of certain debt. Additionally, shareholders of AT&T received 0.241917 shares of WBD for each share of AT&T common stock they held at close. As a result, AT&T shareholders received 1.7 billion shares of WBD, representing 71% of WBD shares on a fully diluted basis. Discovery’s existing shareholders own the remainder of the new company. In addition to their new shares of WBD common stock, AT&T shareholders continue to hold the same number of shares of AT&T common stock they held immediately prior to close.

###

About Discovery

Discovery, Inc. (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) is a global leader in real life entertainment, serving a passionate audience of superfans around the world with content that inspires, informs and entertains. Discovery delivers over 8,000 hours of original programming each year and has category leadership across deeply loved content genres around the world. Available in 220 countries and territories and nearly 50 languages, Discovery is a platform innovator, reaching viewers on all screens, including TV Everywhere products such as the GO portfolio of apps; direct-to-consumer streaming services such as discovery+, Food Network Kitchen and MotorTrend OnDemand; digital-first and social content from Group Nine Media; a landmark natural history and factual content partnership with the BBC; and a strategic alliance with PGA TOUR to create the international home of golf. Discovery’s portfolio of premium brands includes Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, and the multi-platform JV with Chip and Joanna Gaines, Magnolia Network, as well as OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network in the U.S., Discovery Kids in Latin America, and Eurosport, the leading provider of locally relevant, premium sports and Home of the Olympic Games across Europe. For more information, please visit corporate.discovery.com and follow @DiscoveryIncTV across social platforms.

About Warner Bros. Discovery

Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, CNN+, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, Investigation Discovery, TLC, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others. For more information, please visit www.wbd.com.

About AT&T

We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com. AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc. Additional information is available at about.att.com. © 2022 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this communication, including any financial estimates and statements as to the expected timing, completion and effects of the transaction between AT&T, Magallanes, Inc. (“Spinco”), and Discovery constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These estimates and statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. Such estimates and statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the transaction, including future financial and operating results, the combined Spinco and Discovery company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the management of AT&T and Discovery and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties outside of our control. Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements are the following: risks that the anticipated tax treatment of the transaction is not obtained; risks related to litigation brought in connection with the transaction; the risk that the integration of Discovery and Spinco being more difficult, time consuming or costly than expected; risks related to financial community and rating agency perceptions of each of AT&T and Discovery and its business, operations, financial condition and the industry in which it operates; risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the merger; failure to realize the benefits expected from the merger; effects of the announcement, pendency or completion of the merger on the ability of AT&T, Spinco or Discovery to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers, and on their operating results and businesses generally; and risks related to the potential impact of general economic, political and market factors on the companies or the transaction. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may give rise to risks that are currently unknown or amplify the risks associated with the foregoing factors.

These risks, as well as other risks associated with the transaction, are more fully discussed in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the registration statement on Form S-4 filed by Discovery with the SEC in connection with the transaction, the registration statement on Form 10 filed by Spinco with the SEC in connection with the transaction and the information statement made available to AT&T’s shareholders in connection with the transaction. Discussions of additional risks and uncertainties are contained in AT&T’s and Discovery’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Neither AT&T nor Discovery is under any obligation, and each expressly disclaims any obligation, to update, alter, or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Persons reading this announcement are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof.



Animal Planet’s “Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet” Returns for An All-New Season

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Animal Planet’s “Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet” Returns for An All-New Season Saturday, March 26 at 8PM ET/PT
Stories of hope and the power of the human and animal bond are stronger than ever on this all-new season.
[via press release from Animal Planet]
ANIMAL PLANET’S “DR. JEFF: ROCKY MOUNTAIN VET” RETURNS FOR AN ALL-NEW SEASON SATURDAY, MARCH 26 AT 8PM ET/PT

Veterinary maverick Dr. Jeff Young and his fearless team of vets and techs are back for an all-new season of DR. JEFF: ROCKY MOUNTAIN VET. On a growing mission to make vet care affordable for everyone, the Planned Pethood International staff tackles unusual cases – and extraordinary new projects – to help more pets and owners than ever before. From baffling ailments to bizarre mishaps, every beloved pet gets the care it needs, at a fraction of the cost quoted elsewhere. Dr. Jeff and his team take on complicated procedures and work tirelessly to treat the pets and wild animals who need their help most. Stories of hope and the power of the human and animal bond are stronger than ever on this all-new season of DR. JEFF: ROCKY MOUNTAIN VET, premiering on Animal Planet Saturday, March 26 at 8PM ET/PT.

In the season premiere, Dr. Jeff, his wife Dr. Petra and vet tech Hector, roll up their sleeves and head to Leadville, an old Colorado mining town, with an inspiring goal: to transform an abandoned restaurant into a new clinic. Here, they’ll provide desperately needed vet care to an underserved mountain community. Dr. Jeff trades his scalpel for a sledgehammer, and restaurant demolition is underway! Back in Denver, Dr. Baier treats a sneezing parrot; Dr. Jeff fights to save a Yorkie’s leg from amputation; and Dr. Jeff’s daughter, Melody, discovers a worrisome mass on her rescued dog Freya.

This season, the team’s caseload spans almost the entire animal kingdom, from a raccoon injured in an illegal trap to a tiny gecko with a big surprise. Dr. Jeff treats a puppy who needs reconstructive surgery to survive, while Dr. Baier removes a fishhook from a wild goose. And when clinic receptionist Jerri’s newly adopted puppy becomes seriously ill, Dr. Petra steps in to save the pup’s life. Then Dr. Jeff hits the road, traveling to a wolf sanctuary to spay and neuter a pack of wolf hybrids. Every day brings incredible stories and life-or-death stakes: Heroic Labrador Bob suffers a serious wound protecting his owner, and Dr. Don treats a Yorkie so obese she can barely walk. And between complex cases, Dr. Jeff even finds time to dig a swimming pool for his beloved dog Fred.

Animal Planet audiences can also join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #DrJeff and following Animal Planet’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. All past seasons of DR. JEFF: ROCKY MOUNTAIN VET are available in their entirety on discovery+.

DR. JEFF: ROCKY MOUNTAIN VET is produced for Animal Planet by Double Act where Alastair Cook is executive producer and Alex Revill is showrunner. For Animal Planet, Lisa Lucas is executive producer.



TEAM FLUFF WINS PUPPY BOWL XVIII 73-69

Posted on by Danielle Langer




‌
TEAM FLUFF WINS PUPPY BOWL XVIII 73-69

Team Ruff and Team Fluff Went Paw to Paw in Puppy Bowl XVIII on Animal Planet and discovery+ Sunday, Feb. 13
Team Fluff wins Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl XVIII over Team Ruff and takes home the “Chewy Lombarky Trophy” with a final score of 73-69. Kirby, a Labrador Retriever who is the Houston Texans’ service pup in training in partnership with America’s Vet Dogs, was named the Bissell Most Valuable Pup (MVP). And Shih Tzu and Pekingese mix, Mr. Tinkles, from Shih Tzus & Furbabies, was honored with the Subaru Underdog Award. Puppy Bowl XVIII post-game photos and highlights can be found at www.puppybowl.com.

PUPPY BOWL celebrates adoptable puppies in all their cuteness and showcases the incredible shelters and rescues dedicated to helping animals find their forever homes. This year an astounding 67 shelters and rescues from 33 U.S. states brought 118 incredible adoptable puppy players to PUPPY BOWL for endless tail wags, ear tugs and fuzzy faced kisses. Each pup player came to Puppy Bowl XVIII to strut their stuff and show off their uniqueness while giving it their all to chase, fetch, guard, heel, and sprint to the end zone pylons for the ultimate touchdowns and to find their loving, forever homes.

Puppy Bowl XVIII can be streamed in its entirety on discovery+ the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription service.

Puppy Bowl XVIII is produced for Animal Planet by Bright Spot Content, an ALL3Media America company. Simon Morris is executive producer and showrunner with Suzanne Rauscher and Sandy Varo Jarrell also serving as executive producers. For Animal Planet, Erin Wanner is executive producer, Pat Dempsey is supervising producer and Marissa Donovan is production coordinator.

###

About discovery+
discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real-life subscription streaming service. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.

About Animal Planet:
Animal Planet, one of Discovery, Inc.’s great global brands, is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way. Available to 360 million homes in more than 205 countries and territories, Animal Planet combines content that explores the undeniable bonds forged between animals and humans, optimized across all screens around the world. For more information, please visit www.animalplanet.com.



MODERN-DAY NOAH’S ARK COMES TO LIFE IN THE ALL-NEW SERIES “MY PACK LIFE”

Posted on by Danielle Langer





MODERN-DAY NOAH’S ARK COMES TO LIFE IN THE ALL-NEW SERIES “MY PACK LIFE” FEATURING LEE ASHER’S ANIMAL SANCTUARY, THE ASHER HOUSE


Some say that a house is not a home without a dog – but what about 21 rescue dogs, 2 donkeys, some pigs, an alpaca, a goat… and a very awkward llama? For Lee Asher, it’s not only another day in paradise, but it’s a chance to take on the animals who are underdogs just like him and to show them the love, confidence, and stability they need to thrive in his Oregon-based sanctuary, The Asher House. Join Lee and his extended furry-family as he goes above and beyond to create a modern-day Noah’s Ark through his sanctuary not only to provide a space for these animals, but to build a home and the best life imaginable for every animal in need. The all-new series MY PACK LIFE, produced in association with The Dodo, streams exclusively on discovery+ beginning Sunday, February 13, with the first two episodes airing on Animal Planet out of Puppy Bowl XVIII.

In MY PACK LIFE, we’ll meet Lee, who, as a child, overcame obstacles including bullying, but always saw animals as a source of healing and understanding. Eventually, after becoming a part of corporate America, he decided to leave it all behind and follow his passion of rescuing dogs by traveling the country to promote animal adoption and to emphasize that no matter any animal’s shape, size, or species, they deserve a forever home. Now, Lee and his pack have moved to 25-acres of lush Oregon land to establish his dream sanctuary, The Asher House, where all animals including dogs, donkeys, goats, pigs, and more are all welcome to a loving home. Lee’s only rule? That they’re an underdog, just like him!

Throughout the all-new series, we’ll follow Lee on his journey to bring this sanctuary to life and welcome animals from all walks of life into his home. In the two back-to-back premiere episodes we’ll meet members of his rescue pack, including Rosa, a rescue dog who is building her swimming confidence back; Molly, a chihuahua who has also been dubbed the pack’s ‘little old lady,’ and so many others. We’ll also meet Lee’s extended livestock family, including Franky, an inquisitive and socially awkward llama; Princess, an alpaca who looks suspiciously pregnant; and Vincent Van Goat, who seems to think Lee is his older brother.

Audiences will also be introduced to other amazing rescue animals throughout the series including rescue dog, Charles, who is on a weight-loss journey to become a healthier, happy dog to prevent health issues; Aries, a ram who was abandoned after his family abandoned him on their 80-acres of land; Sarge, a special dog who is being flown out by Pet Rescue Pilots to join the Asher House, and more.

Viewers can join the conversation on social media by using #MyPackLife and following Animal Planet on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok and discovery+ on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

MY PACK LIFE is produced for discovery+ by B17 Entertainment in association with The Dodo and Group Nine Studios.Rhett Bachner, Brien Meagher, Aliyah Silverstein, Dave Luce, Joanna Zelman, Lily Ladewig, and Izzie Lerer, are executive producers. For Animal Planet, Pat Dempsey is supervising producer, and Marissa Donovan is production coordinator.

###

About discovery+
discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.



MARTHA STEWART AND SNOOP DOGG RETURN AS HOSTS OF PUPPY BOWL

Posted on by Danielle Langer




‌
MARTHA STEWART AND SNOOP DOGG RETURN AS HOSTS OF PUPPY BOWL AND RAISE THE STAKES BY ADDING COACHING TO THEIR DUTIES

-PUPPY BOWL XVIII Airs on Animal Planet and Streams on discovery+ Feb. 13-

It’s a make-or-break move for Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg as they add coaching duties to their roles as hosts of the other big game on Sunday, Feb. 13, PUPPY BOWL! That’s right, Snoop is the official coach for Team Fluff and Martha will coach last year’s champions, Team Ruff. As first-time coaches, Martha and Snoop take it to an all-new level as they hit the Gridiron with purpose – and a posse of puppy players – for a game that will be as epic as it is adorable. Tune in to Puppy Bowl XVIII, the three-hour spectacular event that can be streamed on discovery+ the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription service, and seen on Animal Planet Sunday, Feb. 13 at 2PM/ET 11AM/PT

“I’m honored to be co-hosting the only sporting event on the planet guaranteed to raise the ‘woof’, with the magnificent Martha Stewart!”, said Snoop Dogg

“I’m so excited that Snoop and I are back to kick off Puppy Bowl XVIII, and help a bunch of deserving pups find their forever homes!”, said Martha Stewart.

With their expertise, know-how and swagger, Snoop and Martha will provide PUPPY BOWL audiences with play updates as they cheer on their teams while giving each other a few challenges along the way. They will lead training sessions, run drills, and provide motivation and encouragement to inspire their all-adoptable puppy players to greatness. And celebrity groomer, Jess Rona, stops by to provide an assist to both Snoop and Martha as they ready their puppy players for competition. As successful coaches, Snoop and Martha are highly motivated, committed and patient with their puppy players who all bring their “A” game to the field to help bring home the “Chewy Lombarky Trophy” and find their loving, forever homes.

For more information about the shelters, rescues and organizations that are participating in Puppy Bowl XVIII, Animal Planet audiences can visit www.Puppybowl.com/Adopt.

Puppy Bowl XVIII is produced for Animal Planet by Bright Spot Content, an ALL3Media America company. Simon Morris is executive producer and showrunner with Suzanne Rauscher and Sandy Varo Jarrell also serving as executive producers. For Animal Planet, Erin Wanner is executive producer, Pat Dempsey is supervising producer and Marissa Donovan is production coordinator.

###

About discovery+
discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.

About Animal Planet:
Animal Planet, one of Discovery, Inc.’s great global brands, is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way. Available to 360 million homes in more than 205 countries and territories, Animal Planet combines content that explores the undeniable bonds forged between animals and humans, optimized across all screens around the world. For more information, please visit www.animalplanet.com.



READY, SET, PUP! ADOPTABLE PUPS GO FOR THE TOUCHDOWN IN PUPPY BOWL XVIII MATCHUP

Posted on by Danielle Langer




‌
READY, SET, PUP! ADOPTABLE PUPS GO FOR THE TOUCHDOWN IN PUPPY BOWL XVIII MATCHUP ON SUNDAY, FEB. 13, 2022 ON DISCOVERY+ AND ANIMAL PLANET

-Sesame Street’s Elmo and his Rescue Dog, Tango Join in on All the Puppy Bowl Action-

– Houston Texans’ Kirby the Service Pup and Justin Reid Join in the Game in one of this Year’s Pup Close Stories-

Everyone’s favorite other game is back in action for the ultimate woof-a-thon. The original call-to-adoption television event and cutest sports competition, PUPPY BOWL, returns for its 18th year, highlighting more shelters, more incredible stories, and the most puppies ever featured in PUPPY BOWL history. Get ready to cheer on the adoptable puppy players of TEAM RUFF and TEAM FLUFF as they give it their all to catch air-speed and take home this year’s CHEWY “Lombarky” trophy. Catch all the action in the GEICO ‘stadium within a stadium’ that takes this game to the next level. Between ear pulls, tail tugs, sloppy kisses, incredible interceptions, puppy penalties and hard-won touchdowns, this is the game you don’t want to miss! Tune in to PUPPY BOWL XVIII, the 3-hour spectacular event that can be streamed on discovery+, the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service, and Animal Planet on Sunday, February 13 at 2 PM ET/11 AM PT.

PUPPY BOWL celebrates adoptable pups in all their cuteness and showcases the incredible shelters and rescues, as well as their staffers, who dedicate their lives to helping animals find their fur-ever loving homes. This year an astounding 67 shelters and rescues from 33 states bring 118 incredible adoptable puppy players out to sport their TEAM RUFF ‘Tail Mary Tangerine’ and TEAM FLUFF ‘Bark Blue’ bandana colors. Each pup player is coming to strut their paws and show off their uniqueness, and with the help of the Wisdom Panel™ dog DNA test, we’ll find out what’s beyond those bandanas and luscious fur, and how each dog’s breed mix might give them a leg-up on the field. And on top of these hidden traits which may be revealed, these players will give it their all to chase, fetch, guard, heel, and sprint to the CHEWY end zone pylons for the ultimate touchdowns and score game catching field goals on THE HOME DEPOT goal posts.

Thanks to our returning and notoriously entertaining slo-mo cam, fans will get to see these canines’ devotion to the game as they put their tricks to the test to score a touchdown and a possible chase of the tail. While showing off their tricks and shakes, audiences will get the pawesome views from the water bowl cam which will catch our furry friends in a PEDIGREE® timeout to re-energize their quirky selves and quench their thirst. For the ultimate top-notch aerial view, the TEMPTATIONS™ Kitty Sky Box will also be featured throughout the game so fans can feel as if they’re in the center of all the puppy madness.

The PUPPY BOWL XVIII Pre-Game Show begins exclusively on discovery+ and Animal Planet at 1PM ET/ 10AM PT where fan-favorite PUPPY BOWL sportscasters Rodt Weiler, Sheena Inu, James Hound, and field reports Mini Pinscher and Greta Dane provide the inside scoop on this year’s Puppy Bowl Draft ahead of the big game. The pre-game show spotlights exclusive interviews with coaches and players, a look at the adorable pups warming up and running their favorite routes during CHEWY’s ‘Play of the Day.’ In addition, audiences will get a first-look tease at the purr-fect halftime show through the ARM & HAMMER™ Clump & Seal™ Kitty Halftime Report. We’ll also get puppy DNA analysis from Wisdom Panel™ dog DNA test Players Report and catch up with several special puppy players past and present including Chunky Monkey, who won the hearts of many during Puppy Bowl XVII and Marshall, who was declared victorious as the winner of the Puppy Bowl XVII ‘Pupularity Playoff”. Those who tune-in will meet Biscuit, the Washington Capitals service pup who is training with America’s VetDogs and see a special look at the BISSELL Pet FoundationTM and their rescue efforts of transporting cats and dogs out of the Hurricane Ida danger zone to safety at Animal Welfare League in Alexandria, VA.

To kick off the game, special guests Elmo & Tango are traveling all the way from Sesame Street to gather the PEDIGREE® Starting Lineup players in the center of the field for the PUPPY BOWL XVIII coin toss to who from Team Fluff or Team Ruff will be the first to wag their tails! In addition, Elmo & Tango will be featured throughout the game as they cheer on one unforgettable pup, Wasabi, a Chihuahua/Cocker Spaniel mix from The Sato Project, from the sidelines throughout the game. As the game progresses, we will see which pup has what it takes for the one and only BISSELL Pet FoundationTM MVP (Most Valuable Puppy) award by scoring the most touchdowns. This pup will join a league of past MVP champions, and through TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE®, audiences will catch up with a previous Puppy Bowl MVP now in his loving, forever home and living his best life “on Tropic Time”. Be sure to tune in to find out which lucky pup will also take home the coveted SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. Underdog Award!

And of course, Dan Schachner, PUPPY BOWL’s official and favorite Ruff-eree is returning for his 11th year of calling the puppy penalties, ruffs stumbles & tumbles, and awesome touchdowns for a game unlike any other. Dan is ready for the ultimate puppy showdown and fans will hear all these calls and more from returning commentators Steve Levy and Taylor Rooks as they give us the play-by-play coverage of the rambunctious pups of Team Fluff and Team Ruff as they frolic, jump, dive, and occasionally snooze their way to victory. In addition to seeing these puppy players on the field, audiences will also see the return of the SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. Pup Close and Personal segments that shine a light on adorable star athletes including one special Senior Spotlight story which showcases that age is just a number and senior dogs are ultimately puppies at heart.

This year’s Pup Close and Personal features various segments including:
A special profile on Orange Twins Rescue, started by Ariana Grande and her choreographers and creative directors’, twins Scott & Brian, who accompany a pair of bonded Siberian Husky/ Chihuahua mix puppy sisters, Bimini & Tayce to Farm Animal Refuge in San Diego where they meet baby goats and cows
Kirby, a very special Labrador retriever who is the Houston Texans’ service pup in-training in partnership with America’s Vet Dogs, who visits NRG Stadium for a service practice session with Texans player Justin Reid
Hoku, a American Staffordshire Terrier/ Catahoula Leopard Mix; and Puppy Bowl’s first ever Hawaiian pup, from Maui Humane Society, who as a participant of the rescue’s ‘Buddies’ program, embarks on a special field trip to a hike in Maui’s National Parks where we learn about the legend of the ‘Poi’ dogs of ancient Polynesian culture
Birch, a Chihuahua / Toy Fox Terrier mix who is cared for by a special foster under Ninna’s Road to Rescue foster program and is coached for the big game by Puppy Bowl XVI alum, Darcy
Benny, a special needs Labradoodle, who is living his best life with a foster from Bosley’s Place where he spends his days practicing laps on the lush property with his fellow dog companions
A special look at The Dogist (Elias Weiss Friedman) who teams up with Pilots to the Rescue, to bring one incredible Dalmatian puppy, Pongo, on a flight from a Virginia shelter to New York City for PUPPY BOWL XVIII

In addition to these incredible Pup Close stories, PUPPY BOWL XVIII will also feature an unforgettable senior spotlight story featuring Mr. Lee Asher from the upcoming discovery+ series, My Pack Life, as he hosts Sharkey, a Greyhound Mix from Family Dogs New Life shelter at his own rural sanctuary, The Asher House, in Oregon where Sharkey will not have a day full of adventure but will have a chance of finding a forever home.

During the game, audiences will also meet nine fuzzball special needs players that are looking forward to finding their forever home; including Benny, a wheelchair bound Labradoodle featured in one of this year’s Pup Close stories; Forrest, a one-eyed Neapolitan Mastiff/Cane Corso Mix; Rocket, a deaf Chihuahua/Dachshund: Pongo, a deaf Dalmatian; Ridley, a deaf and vision impaired Border Collie; Bunny, a deaf American Staffordshire Terrier/Labrador Retriever Mix; Moby, a French Bulldog with a cleft palate; Bimini, a vision impaired Siberian Husky/Chihuahua Mix; and Irwin, a three-legged ​​American Pit Bull Terrier/Chihuahua Mix.

This year’s big game will feature the return of two special PUPPY BOWL moments– First, TEAM RUFF and TEAM FLUFF players will be cheered by adorable, adoptable puppy cheerleaders who will root and howl for their favorite players from the sidelines. This year, the new cheer squad will bring-it from their own special sideline setup to shake their pom poms, run a few cheer-formations, and amp up the volume with an overload of cuteness as PUPPY BOWL XVIII players make their way down the field. Next, audiences will again see Puppy Bowl’s ‘Adoptable Pup’ segments, hosted by Dan Schachner and sponsored by CHEWY. Sprinkled throughout the program, 11 shelters from around the country will feature one of their puppies (and 3 shelters with kittens during KITTY HALF-TIME) that are all up for adoption during the game!

In addition to these unforgettable moments, put your paws together midway through the game for the ARM & HAMMER™ Clump & Seal™ KITTY HALF-TIME SHOW for these adoptable kittens at their practically purr-fect beach party. At this ocean-side getaway, audiences will experience the beach-tastic party with these felines having some fun in the sun and learning about their heartwarming adoption stories in their loving new fur-ever home.

Fans can also access even more furry fun and exclusive content by downloading discovery+. Leading up to PUPPY BOWL XVIII, discovery+ and Animal Planet GO users will find exclusive in-app original programming, including the PUPPY BOWL midform series “Pupclose & Personal” featuring Ariana Grande’s best friends and choreographers, Scott and Brian Nicholson, who founded Orange Twins Rescue, a non-profit organization that rehabilitates and rescue animals in need. Plus, we’ll also see Dan the Ref take us down memory lane, highlighting the very best and firsts of Puppy Bowl’s 17-year history. Additionally, fans are also invited to Tweet along with game day commentator Meep The Bird and vote in real time, for the winner of the Most Valuable Puppy award. Results will be revealed during the epic program.

For the first time in Puppy Bowl history, there will be 23 exclusive Puppy Bowl NFTs released leading up to and on the day of the game hosted by Chronicle, an NFT studio and marketplace. Each drop will feature unique and pawsitively adorable trading cards varying in price and rarity, and a portion of the proceeds from all the sales will benefit Orange Twins Rescue, an animal rescue organization founded by brothers Scott and Brian Nicholson, and Ariana Grande. For the latest on when the NFTs are releasing, follow along on Animal Planet’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Additionally, fans can look forward to the following exclusive digital content: Elmo will be taking over Discovery’s Instagram Story to tell his own puppy adoption story; Kirby, the Houston Texans’ service pup in-training, will be hosting a Discovery Instagram Story takeover as he prepares to play in the Puppy Bowl; and the cutest pregame puppy scrimmage will stream live on Animal Planet TikTok the day of the game. Fans can also show off their puppy fandom by using the special custom GIF sticker pack available by searching “Puppy Bowl” in the GIF section on social platforms or by visiting the Puppy Bowl GIPHY page.

Official PUPPY BOWL XVIII sponsors include ARM & HAMMER™ Clump & Seal™, BISSELL Pet FoundationTM, CHEWY, GEICO, THE HOME DEPOT, the PEDIGREE® brand, SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC., TEMPTATIONS™, TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE®, and Wisdom Panel™ pet DNA test.

For more information about the shelters, rescues and organizations that participated in PUPPY BOWL XVIII, Animal Planet audiences can visit Puppybowl.com/Adopt.

PUPPY BOWL XVIII is produced for discovery+ and Animal Planet by Bright Spot Content, an All3Media America company. Simon Morris is executive producer and showrunner with Suzanne Rauscher and Sandy Varo Jarrell also serving as executive producers. For Animal Planet, Erin Wanner is executive producer, Pat Dempsey is supervising producer, and Marissa Donovan is production coordinator.

###

About discovery+
discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.

About Animal Planet:
Animal Planet, one of Discovery, Inc.’s great global brands, is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way. Available to 360 million homes in more than 205 countries and territories, Animal Planet combines content that explores the undeniable bonds forged between animals and humans, optimized across all screens around the world. For more information, please visit www.animalplanet.com.



THE IRWINS RETURN TO ANIMAL PLANET AND DISCOVERY+ FOR AN ALL-NEW SEASON OF “CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS”

Posted on by Danielle Langer





THE IRWINS RETURN TO ANIMAL PLANET AND DISCOVERY+ FOR AN ALL-NEW SEASON OF “CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS”
ON NEW YEAR’S DAY, JANUARY 1, 2022


In the award-winning series CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS, Terri, Bindi and Robert Irwin, Bindi’s husband Chandler Powell, and the newest Irwin family member, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell, continue Steve Irwin’s mission to bring people closer to animals and inspire them to become Wildlife Warriors and work together to protect and preserve wildlife and wild places. Never has it been as important to spread their message of conservation to ensure an abundance of wildlife for generations to come. Season four of CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS premieres Sat., Jan. 1, 2022 at 8PM ET/PT on Animal Planet and discovery+, the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service.

In the season premiere, Bindi and Chandler’s daughter Grace discovers her new world at Australia Zoo, while Robert and the team attempt the biggest Gator move in the zoo’s history; for the first time, they will try to capture 10 alligators from Gator Lake, home to over 40 crocodilians. Meanwhile, Terri helps her Sumatran Elephants as they learn to use a purpose built, giant runway which will allow them to freely move around the Zoo. And Bindi later encounters the joys and tragedies of another Koala breeding season.

Other stories this season include Bindi checking in on one of the biggest babies at Australia Zoo, Tallbert the giraffe; Robert and Chandler taking a road trip adventure to pick up a giant male Komodo named Naga; Terri helping to care for an unprecedented influx of baby Echidnas; Chandler dealing with a koala crisis; Robert assisting in a complex turtle surgery; Bindi hand raising a baby possum and Terri overseeing the largest and most complex animal move in Australia Zoo’s history. Also, during the season, Grace receives a surprise honor!

Keep up with the conversation on social media with #TheIrwins and follow Animal Planet on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for more.

The first three seasons of CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS can be streamed in their entirety on discovery+.

CRIKEY! IT’S THE IRWINS is produced for Animal Planet by Eureka where Paul Franklin, Chris Culvenor, Wes Dening, Rikkie Proost and Rod Parker serve as executive producers. For Animal Planet Erin Wanner is executive producer with Sarah Russell as supervising producer.

About discovery+
discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.

About Animal Planet:
Animal Planet, one of Discovery, Inc.’s great global brands, is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way. Available to 360 million homes in more than 205 countries and territories, Animal Planet combines content that explores the undeniable bonds forged between animals and humans, optimized across all screens around the world. For more information, please visit www.animalplanet.com.



“Born Mucky” Premieres on Animal Planet Sat. Oct. 16 at 10 PM/ET

Posted on by Danielle Langer





“Born Mucky” Premieres on Animal Planet Sat. Oct. 16 at 10 PM/ET
The series follows the lives of three farmers and their families as they work to protect their land, livestock, and legacy across the seasons.
[via press release from Animal Planet]
***Media Alert***

“BORN MUCKY” PREMIERES ON ANIMAL PLANET SAT. OCT. 16 AT 10 PM/ET

BORN MUCKY, which premieres on Animal Planet Sat., Oct. 16 at 10 PM/ET, captures the reality of life for modern-day farmers, and the resilience and commitment required to keep farms thriving. The series follows the lives of three farmers and their families as they work to protect their land, livestock, and legacy across the seasons. From building dry stone walls to raising cattle, each episode reveals the complexities of farming while celebrating the craft and skills passed down through generations that make it possible. BORN MUCKY shows that while all three farmers use different farming methods, they have one thing in common: they never give up.

Viewers can join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #BornMucky, and follow Animal Planet on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.



Special Episode of “Louisiana Law” Premieres on Animal Planet and Streams on discovery+

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Special Episode of “Louisiana Law” Premieres on Animal Planet and Streams on discovery+ on Sunday, October 10
“In the Eye of Hurricane Ida” offers a stunning up-close look at the Wildlife Agents’ missions during Hurricane Ida, from the hours leading up to landfall through the aftermath and recovery.
[via press release from Animal Planet]
“LOUISIANA LAW: IN THE EYE OF HURRICANE IDA” DOCUMENTS SEARCH AND RESCUE MISSIONS BY THE WILDLIFE AGENTS OF THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES DURING HURRICANE IDA

-Special Episode of LOUISIANA LAW Premieres on Animal Planet and Streams on discovery+ Sunday, Oct. 10-

On August 29, 2021, Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 storm, slamming Louisiana’s coastline with 150 mile per hour winds and catastrophic storm surge. One of the strongest storms in Louisiana’s history, Ida left a trail of devastation across the state and triggered a heroic response from emergency personnel, including the Wildlife Agents of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). An all-new special episode of Animal Planet’s Louisiana Law offers a stunning up-close look at the Wildlife Agents’ missions during Hurricane Ida, from the hours leading up to landfall through the aftermath and recovery. LOUISIANA LAW: IN THE EYE OF HURRICANE IDA premieres on Animal Planet Sunday Oct. 10 at 9 PM/ET and streams on discovery+, the definitive non-fiction, real-life subscription streaming service, the same day.

LOUISIANA LAW: IN THE EYE OF HURRICANE IDA features Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Agents conducting search and rescue missions through the floodwaters and wrecked homes. With communications and utilities down, Agents bring their unique skillsets and equipment to the aid of their fellow Louisianans. In the aftermath of the hurricane, agents go door to door on humanitarian missions, getting critical supplies to those who need them the most.

“Louisiana experienced one of the most destructive hurricanes in the state’s history and we felt a responsibility to bring these search and rescue stories to our audiences,” said Amy Introcaso-Davis, Executive Vice President, Development and Production, Factual Programming, Discovery.

“What the public sees in this segment of Louisiana Law is the best example of how our agents immediately answer the call to help the great people of our state during times of disaster, while in some instances, those agents are leaving their own homes and families at risk,” said LDWF Secretary Jack Montoucet. “It is gratifying to see the resilience of the people our agents interacted with. They are the best examples of Louisianans who get stronger and battle back, both emotionally and physically, after catastrophes.”

“We are super proud of the job our agents did in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. From search and rescue to humanitarian and security patrols, our agents stepped up and performed their duties to the best of their abilities,” said Colonel Chad Hebert, head of the LDWF Enforcement Division. “This Hurricane Ida special of Louisiana Law showcases the job our agents did and also the spirit of the Louisiana people for the rest of the nation to see.”

In south Louisiana, Sgt. Scott Dupre conducts one last patrol in his St. Mary Parish neighborhood. He’s in the direct path of the storm and must balance protecting his home and family with his response to community search and rescue missions. Sgt. Dupre springs into action when he receives a distress call from injured guests stuck inside a flooded hotel in Houma, Louisiana Cpl. Mike Meserole leaves his family safely behind and joins a convoy of fellow Wildlife Agents heading south to Louisiana’s hardest-hit parishes He and Cpl. Mike Cook to help stranded boat captains clear an obstructed riverway, and assist a trio of shrimpers anxious to see whether their homes survived the hurricane.

Meanwhile, with no power, communications down and live mapping apps rendered useless, Sgt. Leroy Tarver is tasked with navigating unfamiliar flooded neighborhoods to rescue a stranded woman in distress. Sr. Agent Suni Nelson delivers lifesaving supplies to the people of LaPlace, where drinking water is contaminated, and food is scarce.

Follow the conversation on social media with #LouisianaLaw, and follow Animal Planet on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.

LOUISIANA LAW: IN THE EYE OF HURRICANE IDA is produced for Animal Planet by Warm Springs Productions in Association with Watson Pond Productions where Christopher Voos, Marc Pierce, Chris Richardson and Brad Johnson serve as executive producers. For Animal Planet, Lisa Lucas is executive producer with Katie Meloy as production coordinator.

About Animal Planet

Animal Planet, one of Discovery, Inc.’s great global brands, is dedicated to creating high quality content with global appeal delivering on its mission to keep the childhood joy and wonder of animals alive by bringing people up close in every way. Available to 360 million homes in more than 205 countries and territories, Animal Planet combines content that explores the undeniable bonds forged between animals and humans, optimized across all screens around the world. In the U.S., Animal Planet audiences can enjoy their favorite programming anytime, anywhere through the Animal Planet Go app which features live and on-demand access. For more information, please visit www.animalplanet.com.

About discovery+

discovery+ is the definitive non-fiction, real life subscription streaming service. discovery+ features a landmark partnership with Verizon that gives their customers with select plans up to 12 months of discovery+ on Verizon. discovery+ has the largest-ever content offering of any new streaming service at launch, featuring a wide range of exclusive, original series across popular, passion verticals in which Discovery brands have a strong leadership position, including lifestyle and relationships; home and food; true crime; paranormal; adventure and natural history; as well as science, tech and the environment, and a slate of high-quality documentaries. For more, visit discoveryplus.com or find it on a variety of platforms and devices, including ones from Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Samsung.



Animal Planet’s Fan-Favorite Series “The Zoo” Returns for Fifth Season

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Animal Planet’s Fan-Favorite Series “The Zoo” Returns for Fifth Season Full of Heart-Felt Homecomings, New Additions to the Bronx Zoo Family and More
Season five kicks off with a special two-hour premiere on Saturday, October 9 at 8:00/7:00c.
[via press release from Animal Planet]
ANIMAL PLANET’S FAN-FAVORITE SERIES “THE ZOO” RETURNS FOR FIFTH SEASON FULL OF HEART-FELT HOMECOMINGS, NEW ADDITIONS TO THE BRONX ZOO FAMILY AND MORE

Series Spotlights the Bronx Zoo’s Groundbreaking Work in Animal Care and Welfare, Conservation and Education

The world-famous Bronx Zoo returns to Animal Planet, showcasing more incredible stories of remarkable animals and the dedicated staff who care for them. In the all-new season, THE ZOO dives back into the hard work and heartwarming moments of daily life at the Bronx Zoo’s 265-acre campus and its sister parks across New York City. Audiences will learn about the zoo’s groundbreaking work in animal care and welfare, conservation, and education. Season five of THE ZOO kicks off with a special two-hour premiere on Saturday, Oct.9 at 8PM ET/PT, with new episodes airing every following Saturday at 9PM ET/PT.

In the unforgettable premiere, a bevy of fascinating new animals find a home at the zoo. From a herd of Bactrian deer fawns on a journey to the Big Apple from Ohio, to a young red kangaroo named Troody growing into the shoes of a Bronx kangaroo legend, to a keel-billed toucan rescued from the dark world of animal trafficking, zoo staffers step up to provide a New York welcome for them all. Excitement is afoot for the zoos’ existing residents as well, as the gorillas experiment with a fashion-forward new enrichment and a trio of curious lynx kittens step into the public eye at the Queens Zoo. Audiences will also get an exclusive update on Nadia, the Malayan tiger who was the first animal in the US to be diagnosed with COVID-19.

“The dedication of our essential zoo and aquarium staff has never been more apparent than in Season 5,” said Jim Breheny, Bronx Zoo Director. “They continued to provide expert care to the animals each day throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic and never lost sight of our conservation mission. Staff in all of our WCS parks and those in zoos and aquariums around the world who braved the unknowns of the virus to ensure the daily needs of the animals were met are true heroes.”

This season, audiences will see the Bronx Zoo’s mission in action as a pair of endangered Coquerel’s sifakas are introduced in hopes that they will mate; Sydney, an adorable harbor seal pup rescued from a stranding in the wild, finds a new home at the New York Aquarium; and a pair of rehabilitated ospreys become ambassadors for their species. The zoo’s veterinary staff get creative by crafting a one-of-a-kind orthopedic shoe to help a tiny oscillated turkey chick walk.

Fans can also follow the conversation on social media #TheZoo and follow Animal Planet on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.

THE ZOO is produced for Animal Planet by Left/Right and Copper Pot Pictures. Banks Tarver, Ken Druckerman, Anneka Jones, Pete Ross, Michael LaHaie and Jessie Findlay are the executive producers for Left/Right. David LaMattina and Chad Walker are the executive producers for Copper Pot Pictures. For Animal Planet, Lisa Lucas is executive producer.