BBC Acquires Groundbreaking Nature Series The Americas Narrated by Tom Hanks

Image: NBC Press

By Jon Donnis

The BBC has secured the rights to air The Americas, an extraordinary ten-part nature series, on BBC One and iPlayer, bringing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of the Americas to screens across the UK. This epic series, narrated by Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks and featuring a powerful score by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, promises to captivate audiences with its stunning visuals and remarkable storytelling.

Produced by the renowned BBC Studios Natural History Unit in collaboration with Universal Television Alternative Studio, The Americas explores the vast and varied habitats of the Americas, revealing the hidden wonders and fragile ecosystems of the supercontinent. Filmed over five years and encompassing 180 expeditions, the series offers an unprecedented look at the diverse wildlife and environments that stretch from the Arctic tundra to the windswept plains of Patagonia, showcasing some of nature's most incredible and untold stories.

The series delves deep into iconic locations across the Americas, with each episode focusing on a unique region—from the icy landscapes of The Frozen North to the dense, vibrant heart of The Amazon, and from the rugged beauty of The Andes to the serene, tropical waters of The Caribbean. Viewers will also be transported to The Wild West, the Gulf Coast, and Patagonia, experiencing a variety of terrains and habitats that make up Earth's most diverse landmass.

Through the use of cutting-edge technology, The Americas uncovers never-before-seen animal behaviour, world-first discoveries, and extraordinary moments in nature. Highlights include dramatic deep-sea hunts, intimate courtship rituals, and the astonishing resilience of creatures, such as a frog that appears to defy death every day. With the series' pioneering approach to filming, it reveals the complex connections between species and their environments, fostering a deeper appreciation for the fragile ecosystems that are now more at risk than ever before.

Jo Lapping, Head of BBC Factual Acquisition, shared her excitement about the acquisition, saying: "The BBC is delighted to bring NBC's remarkable nature epic The Americas to BBC One and iPlayer. From Northern Canada to Patagonia, the spectacular beauty and diversity of the American continents has been captured in this mesmerising series from a multi-award-winning dream team; Tom Hanks, Hans Zimmer, BBC Studios Natural History, and Universal Television Alternative Studio."

The series is executive produced by Mike Gunton, the Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning wildlife producer behind acclaimed documentaries such as Planet Earth II, Planet Earth III, and Dynasties. Gunton's expertise in crafting breathtaking natural history content ensures that The Americas is set to become one of the most compelling and visually arresting nature series of the year.

With its sweeping landscapes, stunning wildlife, and emotional storytelling, The Americas is poised to inspire audiences and deepen our understanding of the planet's extraordinary ecosystems. The series will premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on an upcoming date, with the full series available to stream on iPlayer following the first episode's airing.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, The Americas promises to be a must-watch event that brings the wonders of the Americas into your living room, showcasing the beauty and fragility of the world's most diverse continent.