Emmy Contenders ‘Hacks,’ ‘Shark Tank’ and Others Take on Climate Change

Emmy Nominations to Highlight Climate Change Messaging in TV Shows

As Emmy nominations roll in, viewers are encouraged to watch out for TV shows that are incorporating important messages about the climate crisis and sustainability. This year, both scripted and unscripted series are finding ways to address climate change while entertaining audiences.

Shows like “Andor,” “Hacks,” and “Grey’s Anatomy” on the scripted side, as well as unscripted programs such as “The Americas,” “Life Below Zero,” “Shark Tank,” and “Kitchen Nightmares” are exploring climate issues in various ways, adding educational elements to their storytelling.

Ellis Watamanuk, senior director of the entertainment lab at Rare, emphasizes the importance of meeting audiences where they are on the climate crisis issue. He notes that TV and scripted content can effectively convey these messages through character development and storytelling, showcasing worlds where humanity grapples with the consequences of climate change and the actions needed to address it.

From post-environmental collapse settings in shows like Disney+’s “Andor” to climate protest storylines in ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy,” TV series are weaving climate-related narratives into their plots. Even subtle references like plant-based milk in FX’s “The Bear” and eco-friendly food choices in Max’s “And Just Like That” contribute to raising awareness about sustainability.

Unscripted shows, filming in outdoor settings, are also impacted by climate change. Programs like Nat Geo’s “Life Below Zero” and Discovery’s “Deadliest Catch” are witnessing firsthand the effects of environmental shifts on their production.

Cyle Zezo, founder of Reality of Change, highlights the natural integration of climate themes into reality TV, citing examples like vegan restaurants on “Kitchen Nightmares” and sustainable invention pitches on “Shark Tank.” Hosts like Eric Adjepong and Jonathan Van Ness are also championing climate crisis awareness.

According to studies, a majority of Americans support climate-friendly content on screen, indicating a growing interest in environmental issues. TV shows like NBC’s “The Americas” and “Life Below Zero” actively demonstrate the impact of climate change on wildlife and human communities, urging viewers to take action.

As climate change continues to be a pressing global issue, TV creators are recognizing their responsibility to address it authentically in their storytelling. By incorporating climate themes with intention and integrity, these shows are not only entertaining but also educating audiences on the importance of environmental conservation.