What is Shark Week

Shark Week

Shark Week 2023 is a month away and we just wanted to do a blog post that gives a brief history about Shark week and what you can expect to see on Discovery during shark week.

The History of Shark Week

Shark Week swam onto television screens for the first time in July 1988, touted as the world’s first week-long programming dedicated to sharks. The primary aim was to dispel popular myths about sharks while raising awareness about the pivotal role they play in our ecosystem.

The concept was conceived by a small group of executives at the Discovery Channel over a few beers, who were looking for a creative way to garner audiences during the summer, typically a low-viewership period. This unconventional idea proved successful beyond imagination, with millions of viewers tuning in annually to learn more about these misunderstood creatures.

Throughout the years, Shark Week evolved to encompass various formats—documentaries, reality shows, live feeds, and even fictional films—all revolving around the theme of sharks. This creative variety, coupled with unique storytelling and the use of state-of-the-art technology, has enabled Shark Week to remain a must-see event for audiences around the world.

What to Expect During Shark Week

So what exactly can you anticipate during Shark Week? Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store:

  • Educational Documentaries: Shark Week is renowned for its captivating documentaries, which delve into different aspects of shark biology, behavior, and conservation efforts. Expect to see groundbreaking research and learn from leading marine biologists.
  • Thrilling Experiences: Shark Week isn’t just about static information. Expect adventure-filled experiences with experts venturing into shark-infested waters, giving viewers a thrilling look at these formidable predators.
  • Celebrity Appearances: In recent years, Shark Week has welcomed a host of celebrity guests, ranging from actors to athletes, eager to participate in this shark-infused event. These appearances add an exciting twist to the programming, blending education with entertainment.
  • Shark Conservation Advocacy: Shark Week serves as a platform for advocating shark conservation. It brings light to the serious threats that sharks face, such as overfishing and habitat destruction, and presents ways viewers can contribute to their preservation.
  • Interactive Opportunities: Shark Week often includes interactive components, such as live Q&A sessions with shark experts, social media contests, and more. These activities provide viewers a chance to engage and feel part of the event.

Visit the past by checking out our shark week blog posts from the previous years below.

Shark Week 2021

Shark Week 2022

Shark Week 2023

When is Shark Week 2023?

Shark Week officially kicks off Sunday, July 23, at 8 p.m. ET.

Who is hosting Shark Week 2023?

This year’s summer TV event is being hosted by Jason Momoa. 

Are you a fan of shark week? How long have you been watching it on Discovery? Comment your favorite shark week year below and let us know why.

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11 Comments

  1. Shark Week is my favorite week of the year. I have always been amazed at how graceful, yet terrifying, sharks can be. They are indeed beautiful creatures!

  2. Don’t really have a favorite. They are all great and unique in their own right. Looking forward to Jason Momoa hosting this one.

    1. My family looks forward to watching shark week every year. It’s both informative and entertaining!

  3. I have been watching Shark Week since around 2010. I have learned so much and love learning even more. I want to do everything I can to save the existing species. So many want to go in and kill them when we all need to understand them and learn to co-exist with them. Thank you so much for all the information you pack into each and every Shark Week every year. I can never get enough of these beautiful creatures.

  4. It’s always fun seeing the celeb hosts each year especially when they participate in the shark week action.

    I wish I lived closer to an aquarium so I could get a job and help feed sharks on a daily basis. That would be so fun ❤️

  5. My family looks forward to Shark Week all year! We love watching all the specials and learning new things. It’s so hard to pick a favorite because every year has been fin-tastic but I would have to go with 2008 because the Mythbusters episode that aired really peaked my interest and first hooked me into shark week! Now the rest is fish-tory.

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