Who are the stars of Disney’s Animal Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort? It’s the animals of course, hence why it’s called Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The stars of show need support to help them shine, and often times, they don’t get enough recognition, but now they finally are. Last year, Disney announced that a new series would be coming to Disney+ in 2020 to showcase the behind the scenes of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom
From a thank you post that Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks, had for the Animal Care Team, we now know a little more about the Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and that it will be streaming on Disney+ this fall. The series is produced by National Geographic and will exhibit the Cast Members and daily operations of the caring for the animals. It begins airing September 25 on Disney+.
This is what Dr. Penning has to say about the upcoming series:
From National Geographic, the global leader in natural-history programming, and premiering on Disney+, this new series will give viewers a one-of-a-kind look into the daily operation of our advanced animal care and veterinary facilities at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT and will showcase the dedication and expertise of our amazing cast members.
Later on after the initial announcement, it was revealed that the series will be narrated by Josh Gad (known for his work in Frozen franchise and the live-action Beauty and the Beast).
You’re in for a wild ride. Start streaming Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, an Original Series from @NatGeo narrated by @JoshGad, Sep. 25 on #DisneyPlus. #MODAK pic.twitter.com/lFF5BEe5rj
— Disney+ (@disneyplus) August 12, 2020
Below is some more information about what the series will cover, as written in a press release:
The docu-series introduces viewers to enchanting animals that have their own unique personalities and family dynamics, inviting fans of Disney, nature and animals to spend time with all the parks’ residents in brand-new ways, including the following:
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail — Hang out with the newest member of the gorilla troop, baby Grace, named after the GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center) gorilla sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and help her dad and troop leader, Gino, celebrate his 39th birthday.
- Harambe Wildlife Reserve — Meet animal keeper Rory and come face to knee with his best friend, supermom Masai giraffe Kenya; play fetch with black rhino Badru and his keeper, Katie.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris — Swing past a day spa as keeper Nicole gives two hyenas a bath in the hopes that they’ll be as endearing to guests as they are to her; watch Dakari, the alpha male African lion, reign over his land; and meet Kinsey, the alpha lioness, who’s the real ruler of the pride.
- Discovery Island — Stop by the love nest of Carri and Bones, an endangered vulture couple, as animal keeper Tricia sets the mood for mating and steps up as eggsitter.
- Tiger Temple — Witness animal care experts employing extra creativity to keep critically endangered Sumatran tigers Anala and Sohni entertained.
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT — Plunge in with some of the 3,000 ocean animals that call it home, including an injured wild sea turtle, Harry; rescued manatees Lil’ Joe and Lou; Darby, a pregnant spotted eagle ray; and aquarist Amanda, who is also expecting.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
While we’re waiting for the series to be released on Disney+, we can visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom now that it has reopened. With all that’s going around in the world, there’s a new security system in place that will keep you, the Guests, Cast Members, and our furry friends safe. If you’re not feeling comfortable visiting just yet, that’s okay.
Take a moment to enjoy these sunrises from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or binge watch this Disney+ playlist over the weekend inspired by the park filled with wildlife!
Meet the Animal Kingdom animals in person on your next Disney World trip — book a vacation here!