Factual
Discovery, AOl team up for ‘Greatest American’ initiative
MUMBAI: Who is the greatest American ever? Discovery Channel US and America Online have teamed up to answer that question with a campaign that combines on air and online features.
The campaign, kicked off a couple of days ago, gives Americans a chance to determine who will be named as the Greatest American, by inviting them to submit nominations and vote on AOL.com web site.
The initiative will proceed in this manner. By 1 February Americans can nominate up to five individuals they believe most influenced the way they think, work and live. The top 100 nominees will be announced in March.
March through May, Discovery will provide AOL with packaged biographies of top vote-getters arranged by category, such as politicians, sports figures, news personalities and celebrities, that will be available for viewing online. In addition, Discovery will provide AOL with “person on the street” interviews with ordinary Americans as they share their thoughts on who the “Greatest American” is and why.
In May Discovery will then premiere the first episode of the Greatest American series, profiling a selection from the top 100 nominees based on online submissions. Viewers can then cast votes online to pare down the list, and each subsequent show will profile leading vote-getters, with the eventual No.
1 choice profiled in the final episode in June. The programmes will highlight the candidates’ lives, and will feature interviews with celebrities and national figures who will discuss the US’ top choices.
Discovery US executive VP, GM Jane Root said, “This opportunity is providing both of our companies with a perfect partnership. AOL is the world’s leader in interactive services and Internet technologies, and Discovery Channel is America’s largest cable network. Together, we can tap into each other’s strengths for an inventive series to generate sustained interest and participation.”
AOL executive VP programming, properties and productions Jim Bankoff said, “This collaboration with Discovery aligns perfectly with our goal to provide compelling original online content, while also offering a forum where Americans can make their voices heard.”
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
