National Geographic SHARKFEST 2025 Returns This July
Some shark species have established home ranges within the Bahamas, often island-specific, while others exhibit more migratory behaviors, resulting in a diverse range of shark species around these islands. (Credit: Cineflix)
Emmy-Winning Filmmaker Bertie Gregory Faces Great White Sharks Cage-Free in South Africa for a Jaw-Dropping Special
Johannesburg, 25 June 2025 — The ocean’s most misunderstood predator takes centre stage once again as National Geographic Wild announces the return of its highly anticipated SHARKFEST this July. With over 25 hours of original, heart-pounding shark programming, viewers can expect fresh encounters, scientific revelations, and a deeper dive into shark conservation like never before.
Leading the 2025 lineup is SHARKS UP CLOSE WITH BERTIE GREGORY. Renowned Emmy®- and BAFTA-winning wildlife filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer, Bertie Gregory, ventures into the shark-infested waters off South Africa — without the security of a cage. The documentary promises an unfiltered, close-up look at great white sharks, showcasing their power, behaviour, and vulnerability in our rapidly changing oceans. Catch it on Sunday 13 July at 18:00.
Adding extra bite to the schedule is JAWS @ 50: THE DEFINITIVE INSIDE STORY. Premiering Saturday 26 July at 18:00, this authorized documentary marks the 50th anniversary of the film that not only created the summer blockbuster but also ignited a global fascination with sharks. Featuring exclusive interviews with Steven Spielberg, never-before-seen archival footage, and insights from scientists and conservationists, the film interrogates how Jaws shaped both cinema and public perception.
SHARKFEST continues with a range of gripping specials:
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INVESTIGATION SHARK ATTACK (Wednesdays, 2–30 July, 18:00) — A forensic deep dive into what triggers shark attacks.
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SHARKS OF THE NORTH (Sunday 6 July, 18:00) — Exploring rising shark encounters along Canada’s Atlantic coast.
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WHEN SHARKS ATTACK (Sundays, 6–20 July, 18:45) — Real-life accounts and expert analysis behind clusters of shark attacks globally.
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CANNIBAL SHARKS: SHARK vs SHARK (Sunday 27 July, 18:00) — A chilling investigation into shark-on-shark predation.
This season balances breathtaking underwater cinematography with cutting-edge science and conservation insights, turning fear into fascination.
SHARKFEST premieres Wednesdays and Sundays from 2 July 2025 at 18:00 (CAT) on National Geographic Wild (DStv 182, StarTimes 221).
