EXCLUSIVE: NBC will premiere Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe, a star-studded hourlong special that celebrates the opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Epic Universe. Hosted by True Blood and Magic Mike alum Joe Manganiello, the special will air Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 9 PM on NBC and stream next day on Peacock.
The special will feature celebrity guests including Bowen Yang, Bryce Dallas Howard, Jon M. Chu, Mason Thames, Matt Rogers, Michelle Yeoh, Nico Parker, Vin Diesel and Warwick Davis, as well as an extended interview with Steven Spielberg.
Per NBC’s release, viewers will accompany Manganiello “as he experiences the park for the first time with unparalleled access to five immersive worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.” Viewers will get a look at “jaw-dropping rides, state-of-the-art attractions, cutting-edge technology and environmental experiences that bring the park’s next-level storytelling and incredible characters to life.”
Spielberg, who serves as Universal Destinations and Experiences Creative Consultant, will be featured in in an extended interview offering insight into the park’s creativity and artistry.
“Universal Epic Universe is truly a first-of-its-kind theme park in connecting the world of beloved characters and stories from popular culture with reality. There is nothing like it,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events and Specials, NBCUniversal Entertainment. “Joe’s sense of adventure and ability to connect with fans through cinema and beyond makes him the perfect host to lead audiences on this journey as they experience firsthand the magic in this new chapter of immersive storytelling.”
Added Manganiello: “As a kid growing up a huge fan of the movies, I couldn’t be more excited about diving into these immersive worlds that bring some of my all-time favorite characters to life. From the iconic monsters of Dark Universe to the super-sized attractions of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Additionally, Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks, a three-part docuseries, will stream on Peacock later this year. The docuseries will feature interviews with directors, producers, executives and A-list celebrities exploring Universal’s iconic film and theme park history, along with a behind-the-scenes countdown to the opening of Universal Epic Universe.
Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe is produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group. It is executive produced by James McKinlay with Ryan Goble as co-executive producer.
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