National Geographic Channel will look to build on its recent ratings success with a slate of new series and specials focusing on science, nature and technology.
President Laureen Ong said the 64 million-subscriber network will look to engage its target 25-to-54-year-old audience with nature and science-based shows like series National Geographic Explorer, which remain true to the National Geographic brand, but also employ science and popular-culture series like its popular Dog Whisperer, which appeals to younger audiences.
The network also hopes to build on its average 0.5 household rating through the first quarter to date. In a testament to its ratings run-up, 11 of its shows that have aired since January have drawn a 1.0 rating or better, including its March 18 special Galapagos, which pulled a 1.2 average over its initial three-hour run that night.
Last year, a total of 12 shows from the network reached that benchmark.
Original programming slated to launch later this year includes The Building, a limited series that follows the construction of a major Los Angeles skyscraper; and Situation Critical, which provides an in-depth view of some of the world's most dangerous situations.
New original specials on the docket include Dino Autopsy, which chronicles the study of a recently discovered mummified dinosaur; Incredible Human Machine, a CGI-technology-enhanced show that takes an in-depth look at the human body; and Six Degrees That Will Change the World, which depicts the catastrophic consequences of global warming.
Other specials on tap include Seven Wonders of the Cosmos, which takes a look at the solar system; Superpride, which follows the habits and lives of a lion family; Human Footprint, an examination of how human behavior affects the world we live in; and Fight Science II, a sequel to the 2006 special that explains the physics behind combat-fighting techniques, Nat Geo executives said.
