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Tag: Sony BBC Earth

  • Planet-ary applause as Sony BBC Earth honours Attenborough at 99

    Planet-ary applause as Sony BBC Earth honours Attenborough at 99

    MUMBAI: From jungles to ice caps, volcanoes to urban sprawls Sir David Attenborough has taken us everywhere without leaving the sofa. This 8 May, Sony BBC Earth rolls out the green carpet for the voice that has defined nature storytelling for generations. As Sir David Attenborough turns 99, the channel will celebrate the global treasure with a 12-hour programming marathon featuring his most iconic works from awe-inspiring jungles to icy wilderness, and the whispering secrets of plants to the thunder of migrating herds.

    Running from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the tribute includes classics like Life, Planet Earth II, and Seven Worlds, One Planet, alongside newer gems like Mammals, The Green Planet, and the visually dazzling Planet Earth III.

    The special programming will feature a marathon of acclaimed series and episodes, including:

    •  LIFE: This breathtaking series explores the glorious variety of life on Earth and the spectacular and extraordinary tactics animals and plants have developed to stay alive.

    •  LIFE STORY: Narrated from the lens of animals, this captivating series follows their journey from birth to parenthood. Each episode focuses on one stage of life, starting with the early days to the challenges of the grown-up world.

    •  Frozen Planet II: Frozen Planet II explores Earth’s icy realms, showcasing the incredible wildlife that inhabits them. The series delves into the unique challenges and adaptations of life in these extreme, frozen environments.

    •  Planet Earth II: Exploring the diverse habitats and animal life found across the globe, Planet Earth II highlights the challenges animals face in a changing world. From bustling cities to remote islands, the series reveals the wonders of our planet.

    •  The Green Planet: The series offers a unique perspective on the world of plants and their complex lives. It explores their intricate relationships and surprising behaviours of how plants communicate, defend, and reproduce, revealing a lesser-known world to viewers

    • Mammals: The series reveals their unique adaptations, survival strategies, and complex social behaviours of mammals – from the smallest shrew to the largest whale. Sir David Attenborough uncovers the secrets of their success in every corner of the planet.

    • Seven Worlds, One Planet: Unveiling the unique wildlife and habitats of each of Earth’s continents, each episode showcases the distinct evolutionary journeys and survival struggles found on these seven diverse landmasses. The series captures the breathtaking beauty and fragility of our planet’s continents.

    •  A Perfect Planet: A Perfect Planet examines the powerful natural forces that shape our planet. The series reveals how interconnected systems like weather, oceans, and volcanoes create the conditions for life to thrive. Sir David Attenborough explores how these forces work in harmony.

    • Planet Earth III: Showcasing the wonders of the natural world in stunning detail, this series delivers breathtaking footage of our planet’s most extraordinary landscapes and creatures. It also addresses the pressing challenges facing wildlife in our rapidly changing world.

    Expect breathtaking cinematography, moving narratives, and gentle reminders of the beauty and vulnerability of the natural world. Series like Frozen Planet II and A Perfect Planet go beyond pretty pictures, diving into the science behind nature’s resilience and the fragile harmony keeping life on Earth ticking.

    Each episode is a window into a different world, narrated with Attenborough’s signature blend of wonder, wisdom, and urgency. Whether it’s a baby penguin’s first slide on ice or the slow-motion unfurling of a rainforest fern, his storytelling makes even the smallest detail feel monumental.

    So if you’re in the mood to be awed, educated, and deeply moved, tune in on 8 May. It’s not just a birthday bash, it’s a masterclass in seeing the world through the eyes of someone who’s spent a lifetime making us care about it.
     

  • Across Continents and Cultures: ‘Women’s Day Special’on Sony BBC Earth

    Across Continents and Cultures: ‘Women’s Day Special’on Sony BBC Earth

    This March, Sony BBC Earth will present ‘Women’s Day Special’, a contentline-up that will dive into a day of inspiring travel and exploration. Viewers will embark on adventures as celebrated female presenters Sue Perkins and Joanna Lumley guide them through diverse landscapes and cultures. Perkins will navigate the Ganges, explore Japan’s blend of tradition and modernity, and brave treacherous terrains. Lumley will trace the Silk Road, reveal hidden sides of European cities, and uncover the origins of beloved spices.

    ‘Women’s Day Special’ will commence with ‘Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road’, an expansive exploration across continents and cultures. From Venice, Lumley’s eastbound journey will allow viewers to witness the dramatic landscapes of Cappadocia, the architectural wonders of Uzbekistan, and the serene Kyrgyzstan. In ‘The Ganges With Sue Perkins’, Perkins will explore the Ganges, from its sacred Himalayan origin to its vast expanse, revealing modern India. She will meet the people who define the river, including holy men, climate refugees, and pilgrims, showcasing the river’s significance.  

    Following this, ‘Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World’ will unveil the secret sides of Europe’s major cities. Lumley will explore Paris, Rome, and Berlin, meeting locals and experiencing the cities’ rich and varied cultures. In ‘Japan With Sue Perkins’, Japan’s unique blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology, from Tokyo’s neon streets to remote artisan villages, will reveal a nation balancing its past and future.  

    For adventure enthusiasts, ‘World’s Most Dangerous Roads’ will showcase Sue Perkins taking on extreme challenges, from Alaska’s icy Dalton Highway to the historically perilous Ho Chi Minh Trail. The journey will conclude with ‘Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure’, where Lumley will explore the spice trade, uncovering its historical and cultural significance.

    Viewers can tune in to Sony BBC Earth on March 8, 2025, from 09:00 AM onwards, to experience a journey of cultural exploration and adventure with ‘Women’s Day Special’.
     

  • BBC Studios considers shuttering Indian operations: Economic Times report

    BBC Studios considers shuttering Indian operations: Economic Times report

    MUMBAI: Is BBC Studios set to exit India?

    If a report in The Economic Times is to be believed it is strongly considering the possibility. Recently, its general manager Sameer Gogate quit the content production arm. 

    It is also considering other options like zooming in on a strategic investor who will share some of the challenges that have emerged in the severely  tested media and entertainment industry. Another option being toyed with is doing co-productions with Indian producers – something which has not been a huge hit in the Indian scenario as yet. 

    Sources indicate that consolidation and shrinking budgets from television broadcasters and OTT platforms have intensified competition for limited projects, significantly squeezing producers’ profit margins.

    Known for popular shows like Criminal Justice, The Office, Out of Love, and Nach Baliye BBC Studios, produces approximately 2,000 hours of content annually and operates in over 20 countries. It  also maintains a robust content licensing business in India, licensing British formats such as Dancing with the Stars* and Luther.

    Faced with a more selective landscape of OTT platforms and broadcasters, the pressure to maximize output under reduced budgets is prompting a re-evaluation of BBC Studios’ production strategy in India. A company spokesperson confirmed to The Economic Times that the management in the UK  is currently reviewing its  production operating model to enhance efficiency.

    The Indian M&E sector has experienced significant consolidation, with recent major mergers like the Star India and Viacom18 deal and discussions involving the acquisition of Tata Play by Bharti Airtel’s DTH arm, Airtel DTH.

    Experts suggest that BBC Studios’ production arm could be among the first casualties of this trend as margin pressures continue to mount.

    This potential shift comes as the BBC Group maintains its presence in India through various digital news platforms and joint ventures, including Sony BBC Earth and the recently launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video.

    Additionally, BBC itself in the UK is under pressure. An audit report of the BBC  by the National Audit Office  expressed  this in no less words when it said: In 2023-24, BBC Studios’ income fell by £253 million (12 per cent) to £1,837 million and profits fell by £50 million (20 per cent ) to £202 million. This was partly due to challenging market conditions, including a reduction in spend by commissioners, including the BBC and global streamers, on the production of programmes and the ending of some high-value contracts which generated significant income in 2022-23. In addition its profits were reduced by higher costs as BBC Studios invested in its digital services such as BBC.com and BritBox International to support its future growth

    The audit report was also critical of BBC Studios and its inability to generate too many new IPs and for being dependent on BBC’s catalogue of shows before the production arm was set up in 2016. The report said: “In our 2020 report, we identified that BBC Studios had been less successful than planned in winning new commissions and generating IP.
    Since then, although generation of new IP has grown, BBC Studios has not met its targets in this area and remains reliant on the IP from BBC programmes created before it was first established in 2016. In 2023-24, of the 10 titles from its production business which provided the most profit to the BBC, only one was from new IP
    generated by BBC Studios.”

    Additionally, the Beeb is  on track to lay off close to 500 staff by March 2026 and generate savings of 200 million pounds sterling, according to reports.

  • Sony BBC Earth brings sweet treats to your screen this Christmas

    Sony BBC Earth brings sweet treats to your screen this Christmas

    MUMBAI: In the magical spirit of Christmas, where the air is spiced with cinnamon and jingles play like sweet whispers in every corner, there’s one thing that never fails to unite us all—our love for Mithai (sweets)!

    Whether it’s the nutty crunch of a Christmas toffee or the creamy swirl of a festive pudding, desserts are the real MVP of the holiday cheer.

    This year, Sony BBC Earth has a delightful treat in store for all sugar enthusiasts with its festive anthology, All Things Sweet. Tune in on Christmas Day, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, for a jolly journey through the art and science of holiday confections that’s guaranteed to be sweeter than Santa’s cookie jar!

    The anthology features select episodes of Inside the Factory and Inside Hotel Chocolat, taking viewers on an immersive journey into the production of iconic desserts. From ice cream to cakes and chocolate, the shows uncover the innovative processes that bring these festive staples to life.

    The lineup begins with an exploration of ice cream, showcasing a family-run factory in Aberdeenshire. Viewers will learn about cream production, the science behind sprinkles, and the development of non-drip ice candies. The focus then shifts to cakes, featuring the making of the iconic jaffa cake, complete with zesty orange jelly, fluffy sponge, and rich chocolate.

    In a special episode on chocolate, the spotlight turns to the meticulous craftsmanship that transforms cocoa beans into delectable chocolate bars. The episode dives into the science of flavour and texture, offering a visual feast of the chocolate-making process.

    Other highlights include the high-speed production of 2000 mince pies per minute, a fascinating look at tinsel-making with Cherry Healey, and Ruth Goodman’s exploration of the explosive history of Christmas crackers. The journey concludes with the creation of grand chocolate sculptures, a true testament to culinary artistry.

    Catch the magic of All Things Sweet on Sony BBC Earth this Christmas and indulge in the festive joy of sweet traditions.

  • Uncovering ‘The Secret Genius of Modern Life’ with Sony BBC Earth

    Uncovering ‘The Secret Genius of Modern Life’ with Sony BBC Earth

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth will premiere The Secret Genius of Modern Life on 18 November 2024. The series uncovers the fascinating histories behind everyday objects, taking viewers on a journey to explore the innovations behind items like passports, vacuum cleaners, mobile phones, and more.

    Hosted by Dr Hannah Fry, the series delves into a high-security facility where passports are created with advanced safety features. It also traces the evolution of household devices, such as vacuum cleaners, from early models to Dyson’s modern versions, highlighting the role of spinning dust separators and HEPA filters. Similarly, mobile phones are explored from their bulky origins to sleek smartphones, showcasing advancements in touchscreens, antennas, and rare earth materials.

    The show also highlights technologies like the microwave oven, which evolved from WWII radar technology, and the science behind modern elevators, showcasing how steel cables and sophisticated brakes have improved safety.

    Tune in to The Secret Genius of Modern Life on Sony BBC Earth, airing Monday to Friday at 12 pm and 9 pm starting 18 November.

  • Sony BBC Earth to premiere ‘Mammals’ on 21 October

    Sony BBC Earth to premiere ‘Mammals’ on 21 October

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth will premiere Mammals, a six-part series narrated by Sir David Attenborough, on 21 October 2024. The series explores the diverse world of mammals and their adaptations to a rapidly changing planet. It features species such as African elephants, snow leopards of the Himalayas, and marine and arctic mammals, showcasing their unique survival strategies and relationships with their environments. Attenborough’s narration offers insight into their resilience and intelligence. The series will air at 12:00 pm and 9:00 pm on Sony BBC Earth.

    Sony Pictures Networks India CMO & business head, Hindi movies, English, Bengali, Marathi, infotainment channels Tushar Shah said, “We are excited to bring Mammals, a captivating series that explores the extraordinary world of the animal kingdom, to Sony BBC Earth. This show portrays the resilience, intelligence, and beauty of mammals while also highlighting the challenges they face in a rapidly changing environment. Our commitment to delivering exceptional content remains strong, and we are dedicated to bringing our viewers the best-in-class experience through it.”

    Mammals’ executive producer Roger Webb said, “I was a big fan of the original Life of Mammals series, which was 20 years ago, and lots has changed in that time. I felt there’s a story to be told about mammals today, and how they’re adapting to us and all the changes that are going on in the world. Through the episodes, we explored this adaptability and the ability to cope with almost any situation and environmental condition. It shows the fact mammals can live in the coldest places and the hottest places on earth, and they can go down a mile plus in the ocean. They all have similar traits and things in common that make them mammals, but they can do the most incredible things as a group. It’s also great that we’ve got Sir David Attenborough at the top of the series. He is the master of storytelling; he sets us on an absolutely right path by explaining how mammals have risen to be so successful today.”

  • Celebrate Autumn with Sony BBC Earth’s new infotainment lineup

    Celebrate Autumn with Sony BBC Earth’s new infotainment lineup

    Mumbai: With the onset of autumn and festive spirit, Sony BBC Earth has brought a new lineup of infotainment shows.

    Catch the premieres of two exciting shows on Sony BBC Earth this October, airing Monday to Friday.

    Inside the Factory returns for its eighth season on 7 October 2024, at 1:00 pm, offering a look into the manufacturing of everyday items like jeans, bath bombs, and jellybeans. Hosted by Greg Wallace and Cherry Healey, the show explores the science and history behind household products.

    On 21 October 2024, at 9:00 pm, Mammals debuts, taking viewers into the diverse world of mammals, from the tiny Etruscan shrew to the blue whale, highlighting their adaptability in extreme environments.

  • Feel alive with Sony BBC Earth’s September premieres

    Feel alive with Sony BBC Earth’s September premieres

    Mumbai: As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, September ushers in a season of fresh starts and new perspectives. This month, Sony BBC Earth embarks on extraordinary adventures with a line-up of exclusive premieres to the wildest reaches of our planet and the mysterious depths of the oceans. Viewers will be mesmerised by the stunning visuals of Ben Fogle: Return to the Wild premiering on 2 September 2024, and the compelling narratives of Deadly Mission Shark, releasing on 16 September 2024.

    Ben Fogle: Return to the Wild returns with its season 3. In this riveting series, adventurer Ben Fogle revisits individuals who dared to abandon the conventional lifestyle in pursuit of a life closer to nature. From the remote islands of Norway to the desolate sands of the Sahara, Ben explores how these brave souls have adapted to the challenges of their new lives in the wild. This series is about the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of dreams, no matter how wild they may be.

    Following this adventure is the heart-pounding series Deadly Mission Shark where naturalist Steve Backshall takes ten young explorers on the ultimate marine mission. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Bahamas, these young trailblazers face the exhilarating and daunting task of coming face to face with some of the ocean’s most formidable predators. Through open-ocean dives and hands-on environmental projects, this series is a must-watch for the next generation of ocean warriors.

    With Sony BBC Earth, this September is set to be an extravaganza of exploration, discovery, and adventure.

    Watch Ben Fogle: Return to the Wild premiering 2 September at 9:00 pm, and Deadly Mission Shark, premiering 16 September at 12:00 pm and 9:00 pm on Sony BBC Earth. The show will telecast every Monday – Friday.

     

  • Sony BBC Earth announces Shaan Lalwani as the ‘Earth Champion’ for the month

    Sony BBC Earth announces Shaan Lalwani as the ‘Earth Champion’ for the month

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth, a pioneer in bringing forth thought-provoking content and inspiring initiatives for the Indian audiences, is proud to announce Shaan Lalwani as its ‘Earth Champion’ for the month. This recognition highlights Shaan’s contribution towards environmental conservation and sustainability for a cleaning detergent formula that is totally biodegradable.

    Shaan Lalwani’s journey towards sustainability began with a personal awakening. During her travels, Shaan witnessed the harmful effects of chemical pollution on marine life. The cleaning agents that form an integral part of our daily routine contain chemicals that pollute water bodies. Hence, Shaan came up with an eco-friendly alternative and founded Coco Custo, a company that makes non-toxic and biodegradable laundry detergents.

    Sony BBC Earth’s ‘Earth Champions’ initiative aims to celebrate individuals like Shaan who move the needle in bringing sustainability into the everyday lives of people, making a tangible difference to the environment. The monthly property showcases the work done by the Earth Champion as short-form content with a compelling score. The video is telecast on the channel and promoted on the online medium.

    Sony Pictures Networks India business operations head – Sony AATH and head – marketing & insights, English cluster, Rohan Jain, “As a brand, we have always strived to present to the viewers stories that exemplify passion, drive inspiration, and encourage sustainable practices. Our Earth Champions initiative is a perfect embodiment of this commitment. We are pleased to announce Shaan Lalwani as our latest Earth Champion. Her journey demonstrates that making small efforts can help one lead an eco-conscious life and inspire others to follow.”

    Earth Champion of Sony BBC Earth – Coco Custo founder Shaan Lalwani, “It is an honour to receive the title of Earth Champion by Sony BBC Earth. I am glad that the channel has given me a platform to help my story reach so many people, and I hope it inspires them to reflect upon every step they take. I believe every individual has the power to drive positive change towards environment conservation.”

  • Watch Snake Squad and Desi Feels on Sony BBC Earth this August

    Watch Snake Squad and Desi Feels on Sony BBC Earth this August

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth offers an adventure and cultural experience this August. The channel will premiere Snake Squad on 20 August at 12 pm and 9 pm. This series focuses on snake rescuers in India who address the issue of snakes seeking refuge in urban areas due to human encroachment. It features young individuals who left successful careers to rescue and return snakes to the wild. Viewers will follow Alex Carpenter as he travels across India to join the Snake Squad and learn about their motivations.

    Along with travel and adventure, Sony BBC Earth adds a dose of exploration with its Independence Day line-up, ‘Desi Feels’. The special segment will air on 15 August, 9 am onwards and cover shows such as ‘Ganges’, ‘Where the Wild Men Are with Ben Fogle’, ‘Extreme Fishing with Robson Green’, ‘Rick Stein’s India’, ‘Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure’, ‘Hidden India’ and ‘Joanna Lumley’s India’.

    The series ‘Ganges’ explores the river from its Himalayan source to its lush foothills, highlighting its influence on Indian culture, sacred temples, and diverse wildlife. Adding to the exploration is ‘Where the Wild Men Are with Ben Fogle’ where Ben lives with former fighter pilot Steve Lall in the Indian Himalayas, experiencing a rugged farmer’s life, and  ‘Hidden India’ where wildlife expert Liz Bonnin, actor Freida Pinto, and mountaineer Jon Gupta reveals the wonders of India’s natural world. ‘Rick Stein’s India’ deep dives into culture with visits to Madurai for temple cooking, Kerala for spice-laden backwaters, Mumbai for bombil fish, and much more. ‘Extreme Fishing with Robson Green’ highlights Robson’s cultural experiences in Kochi, and ‘Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure’ covers the whole of India – from the south to the Himalayas including temple visits and religious celebrations.