Factual
Seven shows to watch on Sony BBC Earth as the channel turns seven
Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth is one of the most loved factual entertainment channels that makes viewers feel alive through its breathtaking shows and world-class documentaries. With a content library that ranges from natural history to science and engineering, travel and adventure to people and culture, the channel has something in store for everyone. As Sony BBC Earth celebrates its seventh anniversary, we bring to you a list of must-watch shows on the channel.
Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure: The show takes viewers on a culinary voyage with actor Joanna Lumley as she unravels the mysteries of staple spices. From the remote Banda Islands to the picturesque landscapes of Jordan, Lumley’s journey delves into the rich history and cultural significance of spices that have shaped civilizations for centuries.
Chasing Monsters: Watch fishing enthusiast and adventurer Cyril Chauquet seek out dangerous creatures in remote corners of the planet.
Lonely Planet – Stressbuster: Amidst the chaos of modern life, Lonely Planet’s exploration of unconventional stress-relief methods across Asia brings in solace. From adrenaline-pumping activities to serene retreats, it highlights unique ways to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
Deadly 60: Steve Backshall takes on a thrilling quest to uncover the world’s deadliest creatures. Across six continents, the extraordinary diversity of wildlife is portrayed as Backshall navigates through treacherous landscapes in pursuit of nature’s most formidable predators.
One Cup, A Thousand Stories: Delve into the captivating tale of tea, from its humble origins in China to its global influence on culture and sustainability. Through stunning visuals and gripping narratives, people can explore the landscapes and traditions that define the world’s favorite beverage.
Planet Earth II: Captured with ultra-high-definition detail, Planet Earth II takes viewers through the jungles, mountains, deserts, islands, grasslands and cities of the world. It uncovers the extreme forces that shape life in each of these iconic landscapes and the extraordinary survival techniques.
Earth’s Great Rivers: The show takes viewers on an epic river voyage down the Amazon, Nile, and Mississippi, uncovering the hidden treasures and astonishing wildlife. Through cutting-edge technology and breathtaking cinematography, they can experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of these legendary waterways.
So, what are you waiting for? Tune in to Sony BBC Earth for a captivating lineup of adventures to ignite your imagination and inspire your sense of wonder.
DUBLIN: Ireland is betting big on reality television. In a move that has Hollywood scouts scrambling for their passports, Dublin has unveiled Europe’s first tax credit dedicated solely to unscripted programming—think The Traitors rather than Game of Thrones.
The scheme offers producers a juicy 20 per cent rebate on qualifying expenditure, capped at €15 million ($17.5 million) per project. It’s a cultural credit with strings attached: programmes must pass a test proving they genuinely promote Irish and European culture. No word yet on whether Love Island derivatives need apply.
Ireland tánaiste and minister for finance Simon Harris says the incentive will cement Ireland’s reputation as a “centre of excellence” for audiovisual production. His colleague, minister for culture, communications and sport Patrick O’Donovan, insists Ireland has “the talent, creativity and production expertise to lead” in unscripted television. Bold claims for a nation that has spent decades exporting scripted drama.
The timing is canny. Unscripted production costs have soared globally, making Ireland’s existing infrastructure—and now its tax breaks—increasingly attractive. Fox Entertainment Studios already churns out shows like Beat Shazam and The Floor from Irish studios. Whether these American productions will pass the cultural test remains to be seen.
Producers must secure an interim cultural certificate before filming begins, allowing them to claim credits during production rather than waiting until wrap. A final certificate follows completion. The European Commission has blessed the scheme through December 2028.
Minimum thresholds apply: productions must cost at least €250,000, with eligible expenditure above €125,000. Only one season per project can claim relief in any 12-month period, though producers can juggle multiple projects.
Britain, take note. The UK industry has clamoured for similar support for 18 months, but Westminster has dithered. India’s ministry of information and broadcasting pay heed. Its incentive scheme for co-productions excludes unscripted television. To what end, no one knows! Ireland, meanwhile, is already rolling out the red carpet—or should that be green?
The message from Dublin is clear: when it comes to backing reality TV, Ireland isn’t messing about. Lights, camera, tax action.
