Prince William is starring in a new series of wildlife documentaries inspired by none other than Sir David Attenborough. But instead of focusing solely on endangered animals, the series shines a spotlight on the courageous men and women working on the frontlines to protect them.
Speaking at a surprise press screening for his series Guardians earlier this week, William explained his motivation: “David Attenborough has been a huge inspiration to me growing up—showing many of us incredible parts of the world we might never get to see. I hope this series does the same.”
He added, “It reminds people that there are still wonderful places on Earth, there is hope, and incredible work happening to protect it.”
The future King used the occasion to call for greater recognition of wildlife rangers, describing them as “unsung heroes” who carry out “one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet.”
The series tells the stories of these brave guardians—from protecting snow leopards in the Indian Himalayas to safeguarding elephants and gorillas in the Central African Republic, and marine life in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez.
In a trailer released ahead of the series premiere on BBC Earth’s YouTube and social media channels, Prince William said: “I’ve been privileged to meet many rangers and witness the vital work they do, yet their stories often go untold or misunderstood. Protecting our natural world has become one of the most dangerous jobs on Earth.”
He continued, “These rangers are the true Guardians of the natural world, defending nature and the future of the planet for all of us.”
At the launch event, in a Q&A with TV presenter Michaela Strachan and Rohit Singh, vice president of the International Ranger Federation, the Prince highlighted the increased dangers faced by rangers today. He revealed that in the past decade, 1,400 rangers have lost their lives on duty.
“At some point, we have to say enough is enough and celebrate the bravery these men and women show every day protecting our planet,” he said.
The first episode, co-produced by the Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife and Zandland, follows Modiki Claver—a former poacher turned award-winning ranger who now fights to protect the animals he once hunted.
Earlier this month, Prince William joined Sir David Attenborough for a private screening of the veteran naturalist’s film Ocean. Sir David, a longtime supporter of William’s Earthshot Prize, continues to inspire the Prince’s commitment to environmental causes.
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