Factual

Award-winning producer Waddell Media is expanding its digital footprint with the launch of its first dedicated YouTube channel, Kyle's Wildlife Heroes, fronted by wildlife creator Kyle Thomas, whose audience exceeds 34 million followers on TikTok. Premiering on 30 July, the new long-form series follows Thomas as he travels to wildlife conservation projects around the world, meeting the people working to protect endangered species while documenting their efforts through cinematic storytelling designed specifically for YouTube audiences. The launch represents the latest step in Waddell Media's digital strategy, extending its premium factual content beyond traditional television and into creator-led digital platforms.

Each 15- to 20-minute episode combines close encounters with wildlife and behind-the-scenes access to conservation initiatives. The first season begins in South Africa, where Thomas visits the Umoya Khulula pangolin rescue and rehabilitation centre, Care For Wild, the world's largest rhino orphanage and rehabilitation centre, and The Vervet Monkey Foundation. The series follows the rescue of trafficked pangolins, orphaned rhinos, rescued primates and encounters with dangerous snakes, highlighting the work of conservationists protecting vulnerable species. "It's thrilling and inspiring to meet people who have dedicated their lives to protecting animals," said Kyle Thomas. "These conservationists are true heroes, and I can't wait for people to see the incredible work they're doing."

According to Jannine Waddell, Managing Director of Waddell Media, the company has already produced enough material for at least a year's worth of weekly episodes. "We're incredibly excited to launch Waddell Media's first dedicated YouTube channel with Kyle. The footage we've captured is simply extraordinary. We already have enough premium content for at least a year's worth of weekly films, each one packed with incredible wildlife, unforgettable characters and breathtaking locations. Kyle's warmth, curiosity and genuine passion for animals make him the perfect person to tell these stories," she said.

The channel launches with two debut episodes, I Met an Animal That's Worth More Dead Than Alive and Wrestling a Six-Metre Deadly Snake, with future instalments featuring rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, hippos and other iconic wildlife species. New episodes will be released weekly following the channel's launch on 30 July.