Kevin Costner is set to host and executive produce a new three-part docuseries titled “Yellowstone to Yosemite,” which will premiere on February 8 on Fox Nation. The series will release episodes weekly and follows his previous project, “Yellowstone: One-Fifty,” a partnership with the network initiated in 2022.
In “Yellowstone to Yosemite,” Costner retraces the historic 1903 expedition to Yosemite led by former President Theodore Roosevelt, accompanied by naturalist and environmental advocate John Muir. This pivotal journey significantly influenced Roosevelt’s decision to champion the protection of Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove, eventually leading to their designation as federally-protected national parks.
The series promises to delve into the rich Indigenous American heritage of the region and recounts the unexpected arrival of settlers in the 1850s. It will also highlight how Muir evolved into a passionate advocate for conservation. Through Costner’s lens, the narrative will illuminate the political challenges Muir faced and how Roosevelt’s support sparked the creation of a more organized National Park System, which encompassed the establishment of 150 National Forests, five National Parks, and the safeguarding of 230 million acres of land.
Costner expressed enthusiasm about the project, saying, “Once in a while, you come across a story that has that truly special mix of elements; it’s stranger than fiction and happens against all odds. The story of President Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir’s camping trip through Yosemite is one of those truly special ones, and I’m excited to dig into the next chapter of the preservation of the American frontier.”
Fox Nation president Lauren Petterson praised Costner’s storytelling skills, noting his exceptional ability to resonate with the American experience. The collaboration is anticipated to be another successful endeavor, following their earlier project.
“Yellowstone to Yosemite” is produced by Costner’s Territory Films and Warm Springs Productions, with Rod Lake and Marc Pierce serving as executive producers. This series not only promises to entertain but also aims to educate viewers about America’s natural heritage and the vital role of conservation.
The hopeful angle of this project lies in its spotlight on conservation efforts and the importance of protecting natural landscapes for future generations.