Sir David Attenborough’s groundbreaking new nature series, “Kingdom,” is generating considerable excitement as one of the most anticipated wildlife releases of 2025. This ambitious project documents the lives of four rival animal families in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park over a span of five years, offering an unprecedented look at their behaviors and social dynamics. Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch this landmark series.
What Makes ‘Kingdom’ Special?
“Kingdom” is described as “one of the most ambitious wildlife series ever made” and represents a first in natural history programming. A team of 170 people, including over 90 Zambian crew and wildlife experts, spent approximately 1,400 days in Nsefu, filming 76 shoots. The decision to focus filming exclusively in one location for five years, while risky, has allowed for the capturing of remarkable animal behavior never before seen on television. Executive producer Mike Gunton explained that the prolonged observation period enabled them to reveal “amazing bits of animal behavior,” such as wild dogs cooperating to drive hyenas away from a kill.
The series follows a lion pride, a wild dog pack, a hyena clan, and a leopard family, examining their interactions as they strive to survive and thrive. Gunton further characterized the series as “Shakespearean in its feel,” comparing it to popular dramas such as “Game of Thrones” and “Succession,” while also nodding to the classic “The Lion King.” Ultimately, “Kingdom” tells a timeless story of family and struggle in a fiercely competitive environment.
Where and When to Watch: UK
- Live TV: Episodes will air live on BBC One.
- On-demand: Episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer shortly after airing.
- Premiere Date: November 9, 2025 (6:20 p.m. GMT)
- Schedule: Subsequent episodes will air every Sunday for five weeks.
- Accessing BBC iPlayer: BBC iPlayer is free to use with a registration and requires an up-to-date TV license.
Where and When to Watch: U.S.
- Premiere Date: January 24, 2026
- Broadcasters: BBC America and AMC+
Watching From Abroad
For viewers outside the UK who wish to access the series as it airs, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be used to mask your location and bypass geographical restrictions. NordVPN is recommended by experts for its streaming capabilities, strong security features, and reasonable price.
What to Expect: A Synopsis
“Kingdom” delivers a compelling narrative centered on the daily challenges faced by these four animal families. The series promises a captivating blend of intensity, drama, and moments of remarkable beauty, offering a profound look into the natural world. It’s a journey that captures the constant struggle for survival and the complexities of family dynamics, revealing a world that is both brutal and breathtaking.
“It’s high drama… but it’s also got this wonderful warmth about it. It can be quite a white-knuckle ride at times, but there are also some wonderful moments of beauty and tenderness,” – Mike Gunton, Executive Producer.
“Kingdom” is poised to become a defining moment in natural history programming, offering an immersive and unforgettable viewing experience. It promises to deliver groundbreaking insights into the lives of these iconic animals and underscore the interconnectedness of life in the African wilderness. With its ambitious scope and stunning visuals, “Kingdom” is a must-watch for nature enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
