BBC Studios has solidified its partnerships with Australia’s Nine Network and Television New Zealand (TVNZ) through multi-year agreements, ensuring continued access to the broadcaster’s highly-regarded natural history content. The deals grant premiere rights to four major upcoming titles, underscoring the enduring popularity and global demand for premium wildlife programming.
The agreements encompass a slate of ambitious productions, including Mammals, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, which began airing on Nine this week. The series, a spiritual successor to Attenborough’s earlier Life of Mammals, examines the remarkable adaptability of this diverse animal group in the face of modern environmental challenges. Also included is Asia, a landmark series focusing on the continent’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, marking the first time a major BBC wildlife series has centered on this region.
Kingdom represents a significant undertaking for BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit, meticulously documenting the interwoven lives of four African animal families – leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and lions – over a four-year period in a Zambian river valley. This unprecedented long-term observation promises viewers an intimate and detailed portrayal of the complex power dynamics within and between these predator groups. The final show in the agreement is Blue Planet III, which continues exploration of the world’s oceans in the manner of the franchise.
Deborah Tod, BBC Studios ANZ Director of Partnerships and Content Sales, expressed her enthusiasm for the continued collaboration. “I’m delighted to continue our long-standing natural history partnerships with Nine and TVNZ,” Tod stated, emphasizing the global resonance of these productions which “have the power to drive conversation and change behaviour.” The renewed partnership ensures these significant natural history titles will continue to reach a broad audience in Australia and New Zealand.
The renewed agreements between the BBC and the broadcasting networks, underscore a continued appetite for visually stunning and scientifically informed wildlife content, offering a platform to showcase the planet’s biodiversity and inspire a greater understanding of the natural world. The long-term nature of the deals suggests a strong commitment from all parties to continue delivering high-quality natural history programming to audiences in Australia and New Zealand.
