Production Kicks Off on Ages of Ice, a Landmark Natural History Series

Image: ITV Press

By Jon Donnis

A groundbreaking new natural history series, Ages of Ice, has officially started production, bringing together ABC, PBS, ITV Studios, Screen Australia, and Screen NSW. This ambitious three-part documentary will take audiences into the coldest and most unforgiving regions of the planet, where scientists are pushing the limits of human exploration to understand the dramatic changes occurring in Earth's polar ice and what they mean for the future of life on Earth.

Produced by the Emmy Award-winning Northern Pictures, Ages of Ice follows modern-day explorers as they battle extreme conditions to study the impact of climate change on the polar regions. From Antarctica's vast ice sheets to the frigid Arctic, the series will showcase the bravery and endurance required to gather vital scientific data in these treacherous, remote landscapes. The polar regions play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate, and this series will highlight how their transformation directly affects ecosystems and life globally.

Excitement surrounding the project has been palpable. Susie Jones, ABC's Head of Documentary & Specialist, said, "We're thrilled to partner with Northern Pictures and PBS on this landmark series. Ages of Ice is a unique, innovative natural history offering, and we look forward to bringing it to Australian audiences." Diana El Osta, Executive in Charge at PBS, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the series in shedding light on the critical work being done to unlock the mysteries of Earth's coldest corners.

Northern Pictures' Karina Holden, Head of Factual, described the filming process as both physically and logistically challenging, but essential. "Filming in these extreme environments has been an extraordinary feat, but the urgency of the story demands it," Holden said. "We hope to reveal the profound connection between the polar regions and the future of our planet through this series."

Screen Australia's Richard Huddleston praised the series for its international relevance, calling it "genre-defining" and an example of Australia's growing reputation as a hub for high-quality natural history and science programming. Kyas Hepworth, Head of Screen NSW, also expressed excitement, saying, "Ages of Ice is both visually stunning and deeply important, exploring how climate change is reshaping the ecosystems of the polar regions. This series will undoubtedly spark global conversation about the challenges we face."