www.local10.com
Drones, viral videos help 'Nature' thrive after 40 years
Forty years ago, the programmers at PBS were eager to experiment, so they started a new series on animal behavior in the wild called “Nature.”.
Culture & Entertainment
NEW YORK – Forty years ago, the programmers at PBS were eager to experiment, so they took a chance and started a new series on animal behavior in the wild called “Nature.”
The show featured hourlong documentaries from natural landscapes all around the world, and at first, didn’t even have narration so it could be sold in any television market, without any language barrier. It was a hit. “Nature" is celebrating its anniversary this season, which includes an extended look at the Rocky Mountains, American horses, a close examination of bees and, of course, some adorable penguins.
While the series has evolved over the years, there’s one person who has been there since the beginning. Fred Kaufman started as a production assistant on a three-month stint and has now been the show’s executive producer for the last 30 years.
Kaufman says “Nature” has become even more compelling to viewers because the science, filmmaking and technology is better. He’s also proud of the show’s storytelling and attention to global warming and the environment. In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Kaufman talked about the evolution of the show, the stories that have made the most impact and how viral videos have helped the genre.