Netflix, often dubbed the great white shark of the streaming world, is making waves this summer by diving into the waters traditionally dominated by Discovery Channel and National Geographic. This holiday weekend, National Geographic Channel’s 13th annual SharkFest kicks off, preceding Discovery Channel’s 37th Shark Week. However, the real disruptor this season is Netflix, which has launched its own slate of shark-themed content.
On June 30, Netflix premiered Shark Whisperer, a documentary following Ocean Ramsey, known for her controversial approach to marine conservation by swimming with sharks. Directed by James Reed, the Oscar-winning filmmaker of My Octopus Teacher, the documentary has consistently ranked among Netflix’s top 10 films since its release.
Netflix’s Bold Entry into Shark Programming
Netflix’s venture into shark programming doesn’t stop at Shark Whisperer. On July 4, the streaming giant debuted All the Sharks, a competition series where teams of shark experts race to photograph the most shark species within a set timeframe. The winning team receives $50,000 for a marine charity of their choice.
This aggressive programming strategy by Netflix might leave audiences saturated with shark content even before SharkFest begins. The timing is noteworthy, as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of Jaws, the iconic film that set the standard for shark-related media.
SharkFest vs. Shark Week: A Battle for Viewers
SharkFest, starting on July 5, features a lineup including Sharks Up Close With Bertie Gregory and concludes with Shark Quest: Hunt for the Apex Predator on July 13. The highlight of SharkFest 2025 is Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, authorized by Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment. This documentary offers rare archival footage and interviews with Hollywood directors and shark scientists.
“SharkFest puts sharks where they belong — at the center of every story,” said Janet Han Vissering, Nat Geo’s senior VP of development and production. “We shed a new light on these misunderstood predators while delivering fresh thrills year after year.”
Meanwhile, Discovery’s Shark Week continues to maintain its cultural relevance, boasting strong branding and a 24-year head start. Last year’s Shark Week attracted 25 million viewers across Discovery Channel and its streaming platforms.
Changing Tides in Shark Conservation Narratives
Ocean Ramsey, the central figure in Netflix’s Shark Whisperer, criticizes traditional media for sensationalizing sharks. “I was just really grateful to work with a fresh platform like Netflix that has a global reach,” Ramsey told THR. “They’re willing to actually showcase reality and show sharks on a deeper level.”
Netflix’s global reach is significant, especially as shark fin soup consumption drives shark hunting worldwide. Ramsey’s documentary aims to shift the narrative from fear to conservation, highlighting the critical role sharks play in marine ecosystems.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Shark Programming
As both SharkFest and Shark Week vie for viewers, the question remains whether audiences will embrace the more educational tone of SharkFest or the entertainment-focused approach of Shark Week. Discovery’s Shark Week will feature programs like Dancing With Sharks and Great White Sex Battle, emphasizing entertainment value.
“In a Shark Week first, male and female great white sharks compete in a series of challenges to determine which sex is the superior predator,” Discovery’s press release noted.
The competition between these networks reflects broader trends in media consumption, where educational content is increasingly prized alongside entertainment. As Netflix continues to expand its documentary offerings, the streaming service could redefine how audiences engage with wildlife programming.
Ultimately, the success of these programs will depend on their ability to balance entertainment with education, ensuring that viewers not only enjoy the spectacle but also gain a deeper understanding of shark conservation.
