Discovery Channel is celebrating its 40th anniversary since global launch, and its legacy of long-running factual entertainment remains stronger than ever. Kerrie McEvoy, Head of Factual Channels for Discovery Networks in EMEA with focus on CEE Market, at Warner Bros. Discovery, during recent edition of NEM Zagreb, reflected on how the channel’s evolution is driven by audience loyalty, fresh storytelling techniques, and a renewed focus on global adaptability.
Over the years, Discovery has built a loyal audience around long-standing franchises such as Deadliest Catch, which has been on air for over 20 years, and Gold Rush, a staple for 15 seasons. These shows continue to perform exceptionally well, largely due to the authenticity of their cast members. However, McEvoy acknowledged that keeping formats fresh is crucial.
‘You can’t just keep having the same people over and over again’, she explained during the panel in Croatia. ‘Some characters might even pass away during filming, but this allows us to bring in new personalities and reflect the diversity and authenticity that viewers love about Discovery’.
A prime example of longevity in factual entertainment is Wheeler Dealers, which has been on air for two decades and remains one of the most successful automotive shows after Top Gear. ‘People feel like they personally know Mike Brewer’, she said. ‘He’s been a constant presence, guiding them through the process every week, and that connection is invaluable’.
Technology as a storytelling tool
One of the key factors in keeping these shows relevant is embracing new production technologies. The evolution from 4:3 aspect ratio to 16:9, and now 4K, has been a testament to how Discovery adapts its content.
‘For the anniversary of Wheeler Dealers, we aired a special that showed the very first episode in its original format. It was fascinating to see Mike Brewer 20 years younger, in 4:3 format, and realize just how much technology has changed’. pointed. ‘These advancements make a real difference in how stories are told’.
Social media has also become an integral part of content production. ‘Take In the Eye of the Storm, our biggest new hit this year. It taps into people’s curiosity about extreme weather, blending social media footage with expert testimonials. A decade ago, we had Storm Chasers, but now, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok, we can incorporate real-time content that resonates even more with audiences’.
McEvoy also highlighted that some legacy shows, even those that were ‘rested’ years ago, are making a comeback due to renewed interest. ‘Trends are cyclical’, noted. ‘True crime, for example, continues to captivate audiences. People want to understand what’s happening in the world, and revisiting older formats with a fresh perspective allows us to do that’.
One such example is the revival of Storm Chasers, which originally aired 14 years ago. ‘With climate change making extreme weather more frequent, there’s an even greater appetite for this kind of content. People want to understand why we’re seeing massive floods and hurricanes, and we can now enhance these stories with modern storytelling techniques’.
Local productions with global potential
As part of Warner Bros. Discovery, the network has also expanded its focus on local productions in Europe and other regions. ‘Working for a company of this scale means we have the ability to create localized versions of successful formats’, McEvoy explained.
For instance, Naked and Afraid, a popular survival show, has been adapted for Latin America, with Brazilian and Spanish versions currently in development. ‘These formats travel surprisingly well’, added. ‘They often feel more relatable than our American content for local audiences’.
Another example is the success of “blue-light” programming—content focused on emergency services. Shows like Helicopter ER and Cornwall Air have resonated with viewers across different regions, while Border Control, which originally started in Spain, now has multiple spin-offs in the Nordic countries, Poland, and Latin America.
‘The beauty of these formats is that they are easily adaptable’, stressed the exec. ‘We can either hire a local narrator or dub the show depending on the region, making it feel truly localized while retaining its universal appeal’.
A future built on adaptability
As the international roll-out brand celebrates its 40th anniversary, it continues to balance legacy with innovation. Long-running series remain a cornerstone of the network, but evolving formats, new technology, and strategic local adaptations are driving its future success.‘Our audiences love familiarity, but they also expect freshness’, concluded. ‘Whether it’s reviving classic shows, leveraging cutting-edge storytelling techniques, or expanding our local production slate, Discovery is committed to delivering content that remains relevant and engaging across generations’.
