TV series
The story of Earth's power and fragility.
A unique fusion of blue chip natural history and earth science that explains how our living planet operates. This five-part series shows how the forces of nature drive, shape and support Earth’s great diversity of wildlife.
Streaming, rental and purchase options
Checked Jul 22, 2026
You can also buy it from Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Use the direct links below to open the provider.
A unique fusion of blue chip natural history and earth science that explains how our living planet operates. This five-part series shows how the forces of nature drive, shape and support Earth’s great diversity of wildlife.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
A look at how without volcanoes, there would be no life on Earth. Although destructive, magma from the planet’s molten core builds land, and mineral-rich ash from eruptions fertilises the surface.
Directed by Huw CordeyWritten by Huw Cordey
Episode 2
From the frozen poles to the searing deserts, this episode shows how animals have come up with strategies to survive the uneven amounts of sunlight that fall on our planet.
Directed by Nick Shoolingin-JordanWritten by Nick Shoolingin-Jordan
Episode 3
Weather controls the distribution of freshwater around our planet. In turn, shapes the lives of animals across the globe, rising to an incredible diversity of species and habitats.
Directed by Ed CharlesWritten by Ed Charles
Episode 4
There are not five separate oceans, but one. Its waters linked by powerful forces that keep them on the move. This constant mixing is vital for the health of oceans and marine life.
Directed by Ed CharlesWritten by Ed Charles
Episode 5
Humans are changing our planet so rapidly, it’s affecting earth’s life support systems: our weather, our oceans and the living world.
Directed by Nick Shoolingin-JordanWritten by Nick Shoolingin-Jordan, Daniel Rasmussen
Episode information updated Jul 23, 2026
David AttenboroughSelf - Narrator (voice)
BBC OneUnited Kingdom
Silverback FilmsUnited Kingdom
Tencent Penguin PicturesChina
ZDFGermany
France TélévisionsFrance
CCTVChina
