BBC to launch Prince William new docuseries

Prince William and The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife programme has launched a new docuseries titled "Guardians", which seeks to redefine our understanding of rangers and the protectors of nature, driving recognition and pride in the vital yet unseen work they do to protect our planet.

"Guardians" will be released on the Diamond Creator Award-winning BBC Earth YouTube and social channels, with a gripping new episode launching each week. As a digital-first series, each 6–10-minute episode offers exclusive access and first-hand accounts of the lives of rangers and nature protectors as they urgently work to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems. The series, which was the brainchild of Prince William — who also voices the trailer and introduces each episode — aims to showcase these unsung heroes and highlight how their work impacts us all.

The six-part series immerses viewers in the unique worlds of the Guardians, where we encounter incredible individuals who make huge sacrifices to safeguard the planet's most threatened environments. From the snowy mountains of the Himalayas to the remote rainforests of Brazil, the series is filmed in some of the most breathtaking yet challenging locations the Guardians call home, with each episode highlighting the pivotal role of these inspirational individuals.

Through his decades of work in the nature conservation sector and his ongoing involvement with United for Wildlife, Prince William has spent a great deal of time understanding and championing the work of rangers. He has seen firsthand the critical tasks they undertake and the myriad threats they face daily — with many tragically losing their lives while defending nature.

The series was co-produced with award-winning studio ZANDLAND and will release a new episode weekly, offering exclusive access, interviews, and dynamic storytelling. Among the remarkable stories featured are those from the Central African Republic, in the breathtaking Dzanga-Sangha protected area, where viewers follow a reformed poacher who now dedicates his life to protecting the wildlife he once hunted. In the Himalayas of India, high in the Spiti Valley, rangers are working to foster coexistence between local communities and the elusive snow leopards, known as ‘Ghosts of the Himalayas’. Meanwhile, in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez — once called ‘the world’s aquarium’ — the series highlights the journey of a former illegal fisherman who now works to protect this threatened ecosystem. In South Africa’s Kruger National Park, teams operate around the clock to protect, rescue, and rehabilitate critically endangered rhinos that face constant threats from poaching. In Sri Lanka, veterinary experts tirelessly rehabilitate elephants, leopards, and other wildlife while simultaneously carrying out patrol duties and mitigating human-elephant conflicts. Finally, in the Caru Indigenous Land of Brazil, the series documents the community-led efforts to protect their homes and confront the illegal wildlife crimes taking place on their doorstep.

The series will be distributed by BBC Studios Digital Brands via the BBC Earth YouTube and social media channels, reaching a global audience of over 13 million subscribers. As one of the world’s leading destinations for premium factual content, this digital platform provides the perfect space to showcase "Guardians" and connect viewers with powerful, real-world stories.

Jasmine Dawson, SVP of Digital at BBC Studios, referred to the commitment to audiences when it comes to telling untold stories: “We are incredibly proud to bring 'Guardians' to audiences globally through our BBC Earth YouTube and social channels. This series reflects BBC Studios Digital Brands’ commitment to making vital, global stories accessible to everyone, and it aligns with our mission to tell meaningful, purpose-driven stories that spark conversation. In partnership with The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife, 'Guardians' shines a light on the extraordinary work of rangers on the frontlines of conservation by sharing their untold stories with the world," commented.