Upfront 2013:National Geographic Channel & Nat Geo WILD

National Geographic Channel and Nat Geo WILD continue their walk on the wild side as they power into Upfront season with returning favorites, new series, specials and daring events. “National Geographic always has been synonymous with exploration and epic, natural history documentaries. Nat Geo WILD takes this notion further, by presenting original programming that captures the fun and uplifting spirit of the brand,” said NGC President Howard T. Owens. “We’re producing series and specials that will inspire viewers to push the limits, get real and just have a good time.”

“Nat Geo is authentic entertainment,” said David Lyle, CEO of National Geographic Channels US and Global Programming, to Cynopsis. “We want to be popular, but still have substance, emotion, and fun.” Here are some highlights of what the two networks have coming up:

• Jobs That Bite!, a new show hosted by Jeremy Brandt, explores the unsung heroes who take on the challenge of working with all things that slither, grunt, growl and bite.
• Following Leader of the Pack, which was filmed entirely in Europe, Cesar Millan returns home to launch an as yet untitled series. This time he’ll help troubled dogs find new homes.
• The new series Die Trying features men and women pushing the limits of adventure, endurance and possibility — all in the name of science.
• The Legend of Mick Dodge, a new show to appeal to aspiring survivalists, focuses on the quirky title character whose unique brand of Zen comes from living by his own code — off the land and off the grid.
• The network also has issued second season renewals to two shows: Brain Games, which debuts in April, is an interactive series exploring the mind’s mad skills hosted by Jason Silva. Ultimate Survival Alaska, which debuts in May, is an extreme adventure series.
• Two pilots are on the slate: Building Wild, an extreme do-it-yourself-type series that helps the wilderness-obsessed build retreats in America’s last frontiers, and Showdown of the Unbeatables, the ultimate battle of cutting-edge inventors.
• Events and specials include Killing Kennedy, the follow-up to Killing Lincoln that chronicles the events leading up to one of the most shocking assassinations of the 20th century, and Kingdom of the Apes, which reveals the secrets of chimpanzees and gorillas living deep in the jungles of Africa.