SHARK WEEK RETURNS ON AUGUST 2 WITH THRILLING, ACTION-PACKED PROGRAMMING
-- Six Premieres to Air in 22nd Annual SHARK WEEK, Including Drama Based on True Story That Inspired �Jaws' --
(Silver Spring, Md.) � People have long been fascinated with the ocean's apex predator. But before 1916, average Americans knew very little about sharks. It was that year sharks made headlines as the New Jersey shore became a feeding ground, when five people were attacked in 12 days, triggering a nationwide panic. It was the first multiple shark attack in American history, and the reason we fear sharks to this day. BLOOD IN THE WATER is a gripping two-hour drama that brings to life the true story that inspired Jaws, and kicks off this year's SHARK WEEK on Sunday, August 2, 2009, at 9PM ET/PT.
SHARK WEEK, cable's longest-running event, will feature six premieres this year. Find out if sharks behave any differently during the day than at night; what makes certain areas of the world shark attack �hot spots�; and what still puzzles scientists about the most feared shark of them all � the great white. The week will be rounded out by some of the most popular and memorable programs from past years.
Once again this year, Discovery Channel will educate the public about the plight of sharks around the world through public service announcements produced in conjunction with SHARK WEEK marine conservation partner Ocean Conservancy. The PSAs will air each night during primetime, informing viewers about threats currently facing plummeting shark populations.
Viewers who want to know more about sharks can log on to discovery.com/sharkweek. The robust site will feature:
� Live blogging with marine biologist and Discovery Channel Shark Advisor Andy Dehart
� Exclusive video with a fun video mixer
� Shark Facts in Facebook format (i.e., favorite hangouts, favorite foods)
� Quizzes
� Return of Sharkrunners � the critically acclaimed alternate reality game where avid shark fans become conservation-minded shark researchers, managing their own research vessel to collect shark data. They also have the ability to form research communities at the Sharkrunners HQ to undertake joint missions and gain more data � and research dollars.
In its 22nd year, SHARK WEEK remains a huge ratings hit. Last year (2008), SHARK WEEK was watched by 29.1 million viewers, compared with 27.2 million in 2007. Two 2008 premieres earned a place on the list of the top 10 rated SHARK WEEK programs of all time (reported since 1996, based on P2+ Delivery): the MYTHBUSTERS: SHARK SPECIAL and DIRTY JOBS: GREENLAND SHARK QUEST. [Source: Nielsen Media Research; cume; M-Su 8-11P; LSD P2+; 6-minute qualifier]
About Discovery Channel
Discovery Channel (DSC) is dedicated to creating the highest quality non-fiction content that informs and entertains its consumers about the world in all its wonder, diversity and amazement. The network, which reaches 98.1 million viewers in the US, can be seen in over 170 countries, offering a signature mix of compelling, high-end production values and vivid cinematography across genres including, science and technology, exploration, adventure, history and in-depth, behind-the-scenes glimpses at the people, places and organizations that shape and share our world. For more information, please visit www.discovery.com.
About Discovery Communications
Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISAD, DISBD, DISCK) is the world's number one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries. Discovery empowers people to explore their world and satisfy their curiosity through 100-plus worldwide networks, led by Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Planet Green, Investigation Discovery and HD Theater, as well as leading consumer and educational products and services, and a diversified portfolio of digital media services including HowStuffWorks.com. For more information, please visit www.discoverycommunications.com.
