Paramount’s Channel 5 is picking up two Steve Backshall series about hippos and crocodiles from “Predators” producer True To Nature

EXCLUSIVE: Paramount’s Channel 5 travels to South Africa in search of hippos and crocodiles.

The British terrestrial broadcaster has ordered two series of Sky Studios’ True to Nature, presented by British naturalist Steve Backshall. Crocodile watch And Look at hippopotamus Both are two-hour episodes and Fremantle has acquired international distribution rights.

It is one of the most ambitious bets in natural history for Channel 5. Across the two series, the programs travel to the heart of South Africa to gain access to the lives of crocodiles and hippos, revealing remarkable secrets and the beauty of their showcase natural habitat.

Backshall, whose True to Nature series was produced Whale with Steve Backshall The book, which appeared on Sky Nature in the UK earlier this month, will reveal the secrets of their survival by exploring their daily habits, hunting techniques and parenting instincts, as well as the complex wildlife dynamics that allow them to thrive.

“Crocodiles and manatees are truly fascinating creatures with an excellent reputation. “Steve Backshall is the perfect person to delve deep into their worlds and unravel the mysteries of these incredible animals,” said Denise Seneviratne, Editor-in-Chief of Unscripted, Channel 5 and Paramount+. “We are delighted to be working with True To Nature to bring this remarkable series to Channel 5.”

Backshall added: “I can’t wait to get up close and personal with these extraordinary animals. Exploring the natural habitat of crocodiles and manatees is a nature lover’s dream come true and I’m beyond excited to learning more about these fascinating creatures I have worked with Channel 5 before The secret life of badgersI can say with confidence that crocodiles and manatees may be a bit more adventurous.”

Seneviratne directed both series. True to Nature founder Wendy Darke is the executive producer. “Steve and the True To Nature team had the experience of getting closer than ever to these iconic animals, creating an unforgettable experience for Channel 5 viewers,” said Darke, former head of the BBC Natural History Unit. (now known as BBC) Studios). . department of natural history).

In a recent interview with Deadline, Darke said Bristol-based True to Nature’s programming style is “premium content that meets audience expectations with a contemporary touch and environmental awareness.” The company is known for its leading natural history specialism, including Sky and Netflix’s first co-production, the series narrated by Tom Hardy PredatorsAnd Predators in action (working title), associate pro for ITV and Disney’s National Geographic International.

Last month we presented the Sky series whale with Steve Backshall was pre-sold to Ushuaia in France and ABC in Australia. Fremantle owns the distribution rights for this show and also sells the previous series. Shark with Steve Backshallin certain areas.