Sir David Attenborough, the voice synonymous with nature documentaries, returns with Asia, a seven-part series exploring the wonders and challenges of the world’s largest continent. Premiering Saturday, January 25 at 8pm ET/PT on BBC AMERICA and AMC+, the series offers a sweeping view of Asia’s diverse ecosystems, from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean.
Filmed over four years, Asia captures rarely-seen animal behaviors, like rhinos engaged in what looks suspiciously like “kiss chase” in Nepal and elephants nonchalantly holding up buses in Sri Lanka. The series also ventures into the Himalayas to observe red pandas and captures the drama of markhor locking horns on precarious cliffs. But Asia isn’t just about adorable antics. The series confronts the harsh realities facing the continent’s wildlife, highlighting the work of conservationists striving to protect endangered species. Take a look at the trailer below.
Each episode of Asia focuses on a distinct region and ecosystem:
“Beneath the Waves” explores Asia’s marine life, from giant squid to the peculiar tree-climbing fish.
“Above the Clouds” ventures into the mountainous regions, showcasing elephants adapting to life among tea plantations.
“The Frozen North” depicts survival in extreme conditions, featuring seals in Lake Baikal and polar bears in Arctic Russia.
“Tangled Worlds” immerses viewers in the jungles, tracking tigers, orangutans, and the elusive Persian leopard.
“Crowded Continent” examines how animals adapt to urban environments, showcasing tigers in cities and lizards making a home in parks.
“The Arid Heart” focuses on creatures surviving in deserts and grasslands, including Gobi bears and Asiatic lions.
“Saving Asia” turns its lens on the individuals dedicated to protecting the continent’s threatened species.
A “Making Of” special also provides a glimpse into the production challenges of filming across such a vast and varied landscape.
Asia premieres Saturday January 25, 2025 at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BBC AMERICA.
