Paramount’s Channel 5 is ready to immerse viewers in the diverse and fascinating wildlife of South Africa. In an exciting new venture, the UK terrestrial network has commissioned two series, Croc Watch and Hippo Watch, presented by renowned British naturalist Steve Backshall. These thrilling programs, produced by True to Nature, will offer a fresh perspective on the lives of crocodiles and hippos, weaving a captivating narrative that connects audiences with these incredible animals. With international sales rights secured by Fremantle, Channel 5’s foray into natural history promises to be one of its most ambitious undertakings yet.
Croc Watch and Hippo Watch will take audiences deep into the heart of South Africa. With two hour-long episodes dedicated to each series, viewers will witness the remarkable lives of crocodiles and hippos, exploring the unique secrets of their survival. Steve Backshall, renowned for his previous work on True to Nature’s Whale with Steve Backshall, will delve into the daily habits, hunting techniques, and parenting instincts of these awe-inspiring creatures. By capturing the intricate dynamics of the wild, Backshall will shed light on the factors that enable crocodiles and hippos to thrive in their natural habitats.
Denise Seneviratne, the Commissioning Editor, Unscripted, Channel 5 and Paramount+, expressed their enthusiasm for collaborating with True to Nature, stating, “Crocodiles and hippos are truly fascinating creatures with formidable reputations. Steve Backshall is the perfect person to dive deep into their worlds and unravel the secrets of these incredible animals.” Backshall’s expertise in wildlife exploration, coupled with his unique storytelling abilities, makes him an ideal choice for showcasing the untamed beauty of these creatures.
Steve Backshall voiced his excitement at the prospect of venturing into the natural habitats of crocodiles and hippos, considering it a dream come true for any wildlife enthusiast. Having previously collaborated with Channel 5 on The Secret Life of Badgers, Backshall is no stranger to the network’s commitment to showcasing extraordinary wildlife phenomena. With an adventurous spirit, Backshall is eager to get up close and personal with these captivating creatures, anticipating a thrilling and educational experience.
True to Nature, founded by Wendy Darke, former chief of the BBC Natural History Unit, boasts an impressive track record in producing premium natural history content. The company’s focus on blue-chip programming, blending audience expectations with a contemporary edge in terms of environmentalism, has earned them recognition and acclaim. Notable projects in their repertoire include the collaboration with Sky and Netflix on Predators, featuring the formidable Tom Hardy as the narrator, as well as the co-production Predators in Action (working title), in conjunction with ITV and Disney’s National Geographic International.
The immense appeal of Channel 5’s wildlife series, Whale with Steve Backshall, has transcended borders. Pre-sales to France’s Ushuaia and the ABC in Australia indicate the international demand for captivating and enlightening natural history content. The combination of Steve Backshall’s infectious enthusiasm and True to Nature’s commitment to showcasing awe-inspiring wildlife has undoubtedly captured the attention of audiences worldwide.
Channel 5’s decision to commission Croc Watch and Hippo Watch signifies a bold step into the enchanting world of South Africa’s wildlife. With Steve Backshall as the charismatic guide, viewers can eagerly anticipate a thrilling and educational journey into the lives of crocodiles and hippos. True to Nature’s exceptional storytelling, fused with their commitment to environmentalism, ensures that these series will be nothing short of extraordinary. As wildlife enthusiasts eagerly await the premiere, the question looms: Are you ready to embark on the wild wonders of Croc Watch and Hippo Watch?