Factual
Z Living premiering three series in US
MUMBAI: Leading Health Entertainment Network, Z Living is premiering three new series in an all-new primetime programming block kicking off January 2017 in the US.
ZEEL president – content & strategy, international business Rajeev Kheror said, “More than two years ago, in October 2014, we created an entirely new category – ‘Health Entertainment’ in the US with the launch of the Z Living Network. This January, the Z Living Network takes another momentous step as we further strengthen the original programming with the launch of our three new series – ‘Altar’d’, ‘Finding Fido’ and ‘POPSUGAR Presents: Conquered’. These programs which embrace our positioning, will further define Health Entertainment to the world.”
All three original shows evoke Z Living’s mission of creating content focused on all aspects of healthy living, including food, fitness, family, relationships, lifestyle and more.
Altar’d airs at 8 pm ET/PT, followed up by Finding Fido, featuring award-winning photographer and New York Times Best-Selling Author Seth Casteel (“Underwater Dogs,” “Pounce”), at 9 pm ET/PT and POPSUGAR Presents: Conquered at 10 pm ET/PT. New episodes for all three series will air weekly on Tuesday nights.
Altar’d captures the journeys of six engaged couples who are determined to lose weight and adopt healthy lifestyles before saying “I do.” Three months prior to their nuptials, the future bride and groom are paired with acclaimed fitness trainers Chris Marhefka and Erin Stutland to shape their transformations. However, in a twist that none of the participants see coming, the couples will be separated, unable to see each other for the entire 90 days until they are reunited for an incredible and emotional reveal at the altar. While the arduous process brings many of the couples closer together, it offers others a newfound clarity that could prompt them to re-evaluate their anticipated walk down the aisle. Altar’d is produced by Bodega Pictures. Josh Ackerman and Benjamin Nurick are executive producers. Tim Krubsack serves as executive producer for Z Living.
In each episode of Finding Fido, Casteel plays matchmaker to hopeful pet owners-to-be and dogs in need of homes. After meeting with prospective “pet parents,” he gets to know their environment, assesses their health, wellness and lifestyle needs, and then locates three potential canine candidates. The future owners spend time with each dog – at home and in public – before finally determining their perfect match. Throughout each episode, Casteel also demonstrates quick and easy dog behavioral tests that can help evaluate a specific canine’s personality and demeanor. Finding Fido is produced by 3 Ball Entertainment. Todd A. Nelson, Ross Weintraub, DJ Nurre, Jeff Altrock, Tim Krubsack and Jay Bluemke are executive producers.
From POPSUGAR Studios, Conquered unveils unique and uplifting stories about people – from the everyday to the influential – who have broken boundaries and conquered obstacles in order to achieve their goals. Each half-hour episode will explore such themes as physical achievement, career, personal relationships and health, among others. POPSUGAR Presents: Conquered is produced by POPSUGAR Studios. Executive producers for POPSUGAR are Nicole Lucas Haimes, Ted Haimes, Jordan Allen and David Grant. Tim Krubsack executive produces for Z Living.
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.
