Gael Garcia Bernal to voice Hispanic “Planet”

April 13, 2011 by Adam Benzine

Discovery en Español has tapped Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal (The Motorcycle Diaries, Babel) to narrate blue-chip factual series Human Planet for Hispanic audiences.

The two week, eight-part natural history series will premiere on Discovery en Español on April 25 at 8 p.m. EST. It also airs on Discovery Channel in Latin America – covering Bogota, Brasilia, Buenos Aires and Mexico City – starting May 12 at 10 p.m.

“Human Planet is an awe inspiring production that will transport viewers to some of the most stunning locations on Earth to share in the captivating images of human’s perseverance and survival,” said Bilai Joa Silar, VP and channel director of Discovery U.S. Hispanic.

“It is the story of us, told via striking visuals and accompanied by the distinct voice of celebrated Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal, who will take Spanish speaking audiences on a remarkable odyssey.”

The series, a big budget coproduction between Discovery and the BBC, was filmed in HD in more than 70 locations across the globe, from the frozen Arctic to steamy rainforests and parched deserts.

“It is fascinating to see what human beings do to survive and how cultures work in a similar fashion to be able to adapt,” said Garcia Bernal. “I was struck by how those filming had to adjust to challenging conditions within the different situations and cultures – this series is an absolute visual coup.”