Pole to Pole with Will Smith
A National Geographic Original
Will Smith heads into a grueling challenge inspired by the memory of his late mentor. The series follows his plan to endure 100 demanding days as he moves between the planet’s polar regions with a rotating team of scientists, researchers and explorers beside him. Harsh weather, biting cold, and... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: February 02, 2026
About Pole to Pole with Will Smith
Will Smith heads into a grueling challenge inspired by the memory of his late mentor. The series follows his plan to endure 100 demanding days as he moves between the planet’s polar regions with a rotating team of scientists, researchers and explorers beside him. Harsh weather, biting cold, and long periods of isolation test both body and mind while cameras capture the day to day rhythm of fieldwork, equipment failures, and improvised fixes. The crew chase data on ecosystems, climate signals and life under ice, turning every trek into a live experiment and a human story. The show leans into the risk and reward of discovery, presenting setbacks as chances to rethink strategy and push forward. It’s not a glossy escape but a candid look at stamina, problem solving and the stubborn optimism that keeps explorers going.
Production details are sparse and release information is limited. The series is hosted by Will Smith, framing each polar segment with interviews, on site footage and scientific context. Director and network information have not been publicly disclosed, but the show is marketed as a documentary style expedition across the poles rather than a traditional travelogue.
The show foregrounds mentorship and science, weaving themes of resilience, curiosity and collaboration. Viewers are invited into the decision making behind field work, the ethics of research in fragile environments, and the tension between spectacle and accuracy. While it leans on Will Smith's charisma to connect audiences with technical moments, it also places scientists and local experts at the center of the story. The tone signals that careful data interpretation and steady teamwork can outshine flashy moments.
Potential cultural impact could arrive from widening access to polar science and highlighting voices beyond the usual researchers. The stark visuals of ice and aurora may become emblematic of climate storytelling, drawing viewers who might not seek out documentary projects. If the format resonates, it could influence future celebrity led science programming toward more collaborative, evidence based approaches that foreground researchers and local partners.
Details
- Release Date
- January 13, 2026
- Rating
- TV-14
- User Ratings
- 14 votes
- Type
- TV Series
- Seasons
- 1
- Episodes
- 7
- Network
- National Geographic
- Status
- Returning Series
- Genres
- Documentary
- Country
- United States
- Studio
- Westbrook +3 more
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Will Smith
Self - Host
Seasons (1 season, 7 episodes)
Season 1
7 episodes - 2026