National Geographics’ docu-series, “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper,“ features Christian Cooper as both the host and consulting producer. Cooper is perhaps best known as the man subjected to a “Karen” in Central Park when bird watching in 2020.
The new series explores the wild, wonderful, and unpredictable world of birds. Whether navigating rocky lava terrain in Hawaii for elusive honeycreepers, trekking into rain forests in Puerto Rico for parrots, or scaling a bridge in Manhattan for a peregrine falcon, Cooper does whatever it takes to learn about these extraordinary, feathered creatures and show us the remarkable world in the sky above.
Cooper spoke exclusively with EUR about how the show came into existence and where his love for birding stems from.
He said the genesis of “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper” came about unexpectedly when a senior executive from National Geographic reached out to him. The concept of a birding show with him traveling around the country to observe and discuss birds instantly intrigued Cooper, leading to the show’s development over nearly two years.
His love for birds developed early, partly influenced by his father being a science teacher, instilling a reverence for nature in their household. His “spark bird” was a red-winged blackbird he first observed at a young age. He explained that it ignited his passion for birdwatching. What he loves most about birds is their accessibility and inspiration. Those two have remained constant throughout his life, symbolizing freedom and boundless possibilities.
Cooper said what sets the show apart is that it is not solely focusing on birds but also delving into the connections between birds and people in various environments. For instance, a trip to Alabama provided powerful links between the great migration of birds and the Black migration experience. Christian hopes the show will encourage young black and brown children, and others, to embrace birdwatching, offering healing and inspiration in a world where green spaces are often scarce in underprivileged communities.
Beyond his love for nature, Christian Cooper is a dedicated activist in racial justice and LGBTQ equality. Seamlessly blending his passions, he contributed to the BLM graphic short story “It’s a Bird” from DC Comics, combining storytelling, progressivism, and environmentalism. His “Better Living Through Birding” memoir was featured on the New York Times bestseller list.
Looking back on the incident that brought him into the public eye, Cooper views it as a turning point that opened doors to amplify his lifelong endeavors for justice, equality, and the love of nature. He sees this opportunity as a way to reach more people, spread his message of unity and compassion, and inspire others to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. Cooper said, “I hope to give people another way to connect and come into the birding world because birding has been incredibly healing.”
“Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper” airs on National Geographic or is available to stream on Disney+.
Jill Munroe is a Los Angeles-bred entertainment journalist, producer, and host. Listen to her live on “RSVP with Jill Munroe” weeknights, 9 PM-Midnight on KBLA Talk 1580. You can follow her on all social media @StilettoJill or check out JillMunroe.com
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