Tom Hanks, known for his charismatic roles on screen, takes on a new challenge as the narrator of NBC's ambitious nature documentary series, The Americas, which premiered on March 2, 2025. This sweeping ten-part documentary showcases the rich diversity of wildlife across North and South America, filmed over five years and across 180 expeditions.
Produced by the esteemed BBC Studios Natural History Unit and backed by music from Oscar and Grammy-award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, The Americas aims to capture the wonders, secrets, and fragilities of the supercontinent's ecosystems. Hanks expressed his enthusiasm for the chance to narrate, stating, "When the opportunity arose to be the voice of The Americas, I said: 'I think I've lived for this opportunity.' I feel lucky to be part of this extraordinary project." Despite the stunning visuals and scope of the project, viewer reaction to Hanks' narration has been mixed.
The series began its run with episodes titled The Wild West and The Amazon. Episode three, The Wild West, plunges audiences deep within the challenges wildlife face in rugged terrains such as Yellowstone, where, for example, snow-bound coyotes must navigate through difficult winter conditions. The dramatic scenery serves as the backdrop for observing behaviors of various species, including bison and rattlesnakes, highlighting their survival skills and adaptations to harsh environments.
Episode four, The Amazon, explores the world’s largest rainforest, showcasing giant otters hunting cooperatively, black caimans preying on newly hatched turtles, and the fascinating behaviors of harpy eagles as they raise their young. The episodes are not just visually captivating but are filled with intimate portrayals of creatures as they navigate their daily lives, from the majestic to the mundane.
Yet, early reviews reveal some discontent from audiences, particularly on social media. Critics have voiced their disappointment over Hanks’ performance compared to the iconic delivery of British natural history presenter Sir David Attenborough. One user lamented, "Tom Hanks should stick to acting and leave narration of nature programmes to professionals like David Attenborough," illustrating the sentiment among some viewers who long for the familiar tones and depth Attenborough is known for.
Another viewer remarked on the intrusive background music, stating, "Tom Hanks' voice is too low for this type of narration. I might have to resort to subtitles." Such feedback raises questions about whether Hanks can evocate the same level of engagement as his British counterpart, whose soothing voice has become synonymous with nature documentaries worldwide.
Despite mixed reviews, some audience members have embraced the series, noting its stunning visualization and the unique narrative approach. The production is marked by using cutting-edge technology, which helps reveal never-before-seen behaviors of various species, delivering on its promise to shed light on the complex and often hidden aspects of wildlife life.
Mike Gunton, the executive producer, defended the casting decision, arguing, "Tom was the obvious person to do it," emphasizing his ability to connect with viewers on deep emotional levels as they witness the lives of animals. He stated, "These shows are not just told. If they work really well, the audience has an experience where they lean forward; they’re involved, and the intensity of the stories... are very visceral."
Critics are divided on the overarching message conveyed through the series. While Hanks provides the warm, engaging voice, some feel the narrative lacks the necessary depth and acknowledgment of broader environmental issues impacting the habitats featured. The balance of entertainment and education is put to the test: viewers want stunning visuals but also rely on nature documentaries to inform them about the challenges species face due to climate change and habitat destruction.
What is clear is the ambitious scope of The Americas. Each episode features distinct iconic locations ranging from the Atlantic Coast to the Amazon, injecting new energy and perspectives within the genre. The series has initiated conversations around the importance of wildlife storytelling, the relevance of narrators, and the representation of environmental issues.
With its profundity and visual splendor, The Americas invites viewers to appreciate the beauty of nature, but it also serves as a reminder of the responsibility we share to protect these ecosystems. Whether the narration of Tom Hanks becomes the hallmark for future wildlife documentaries remains to be seen, but his efforts alongside acclaimed producers like Gunton mark the beginning of what many hope will be groundbreaking environmental storytelling.