NBC is setting out on a journey across two continents, guided by one of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices. The network is set to unveil “The Americas,” a ten-part nature docuseries narrated by Tom Hanks, with music from none other than Hans Zimmer. This collaboration between BBC Studios Natural History Unit (the creators of “Planet Earth”) and Universal Television Alternative Studio promises a grand exploration of the natural world, from the icy plains of Patagonia to the vibrant rainforests of the Amazon.
Premiering Sunday, February 23, 2024, with a two-hour premiere event (7 p.m. ET/PT), “The Americas” aims to immerse viewers in the stunning diversity of the Western Hemisphere. The series represents five years of filming across 180 expeditions, capturing never-before-seen animal behaviors and breathtaking landscapes. Each hour-long episode focuses on a distinct region: the Atlantic Coast, Mexico, the Wild West, the Amazon, the Frozen North, the Gulf Coast, the Andes, the Caribbean, the West Coast, and Patagonia.
With executive producer Mike Gunton, known for his work on “Life,” “Planet Earth II,” and “Dynasties,” at the helm, “The Americas” carries a pedigree that suggests a high-quality viewing experience. The combination of Hanks’ warm narration, Zimmer’s evocative score, and the BBC’s renowned filmmaking prowess creates high expectations for this “tentpole event series,” as NBC has dubbed it.