David Blaine Do Not Attempt airs 28 March

South Africans are in for a treat with National Geographic’s new documentary from renowned magician and endurance artist, David Blaine in Do Not Attempt.

The six-part documentary was shot around the world, including South Africa. It is produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard and will air on DStv’s channel 181 (NatGeo) and Starsat 220, premiering on Friday, 28 March at 18h50 (CAT).

It will also stream on the Disney+ platform. All platforms will receive a new episode every Friday at the same time, with the South Africa episode schedule to air on 25 April.

At a screening earlier in Johannesburg, NatGeo played the episode shot in South Africa featuring Blaine’s travels across the country, showcasing various scenarios from spinning to black mambas and even sharks.

It is shot incredibly well with artistic storytelling that kept us on the edge of our seats with loads of jaw dropping moments that will make any South African proud to be showcased this way to an international audience.

Spinning athletes Sam Sam and Kayla are featured on the episode, who were also present at the screening, taking us through a roller-coaster of emotions during their stunts.

NatGeo’s Do Not Attempt sees David Blaine takes us on a “fascinating cultural exchange and a jaw-dropping journey through extraordinary cultures”, where he meets with performers and masters, kindred spirits who inspire and share with him exceptional skills (and secrets) in Brazil, Southeast Asia, India, the Arctic Circle, South Africa and Japan.

David is widely recognized for his epic stunts and illusions. Through intimate documentary storytelling, this series also reveals a surprising and more personal side to David, which has rarely been seen before, says NatGeo.

Traveling through the urban and natural jungles of Brazil to the unforgiving ice of the Arctic Circle, from the spiritual centers of India to the thriving cultural heart of South Africa, David seeks out real feats of magic at the intersection of physical and mental strength performed by extraordinary people.

In each episode, David immerses himself in the cultures, histories and hidden rituals that make these astonishing talents possible. He learns and attempts … so you don’t have to … while shining a light on a side of magic few have ever seen. The series title provides instructions to viewers for a reason: Do Not Attempt.

“I’m discovering incredible people with unbelievable talents, pushing the limits of what’s possible. It’s been a privilege to learn from them,” said Blaine.

“As a magician, I’m in awe of their abilities because, for me, the most magical moments aren’t tricks but human potential realized.”

From sword swallowing to surviving venomous creature stings, and from feats of athleticism to kissing king cobras, David Blaine Do Not Attempt uncovers the rituals, preparation and strength that take magic beyond mere illusion.

The show is a celebration of pushing boundaries safely and responsibly, rooted in years of training, preparation and a process of refinement.

Viewers are reminded that professionals do all the feats shown in the series with safety teams to prevent any accidents. None of the activities from the series should ever be practiced.

This series contains content that may be disturbing to some viewers. All acts performed are inherently dangerous and were done under strict supervision. They should not be attempted. Viewer discretion is advised.

David Blaine Do Not Attempt Episode List

Brazil: In Brazil, David Blaine seeks inspiration by immersing himself in his hosts’ vibrant energy, passion and spontaneity. The exceptional daredevils, artists, explorers and athletes he encounters unite to help him bring an audacious feat to life that’s lingered in his dreams for years.

Southeast Asia: In Southeast Asia, David Blaine explores fascinating relationships with wildlife and how pain endurance can transform fear into magic. He meets practitioners who appear impenetrable by sharp objects and performers who can endure the stings of venomous creatures. David unpacks how people exploit fear in order to create wonder.

India: Growing up, David Blaine was fascinated by images from India of extraordinary physical feats. This evolved into a life-long obsession with real acts that are so extreme they look like magic. Using secrets passed down over hundreds of years, people still perform these acts today. In India, David unearths these modern practitioners to explore how belief and performance intersect to make magic.

Arctic Circle: In the stunning frozen landscape of the Arctic Circle, David Blaine explores humanity’s curiously extreme ability to endure freezing temperatures. He meets and learns from people who reach beyond their limits to transform barriers into new frontiers and embody a sense of resilience, perseverance and grit that is unique to the region.

South Africa: David embarks on an epic adventure in South Africa, uncovering the magic of its diverse cultures and wildlife that is reshaping perceptions and dismantling barriers in this dynamic country.

Japan: From perfectly punctual bullet trains to meticulously assembled pieces of sushi, Japan is renowned for its craftsmanship, artistry and commitment to excellence in all endeavours. In Japan, David explores the concept of mastery by meeting with people who spend a lifetime refining a single skill.