Will Smith Visits Antarctica With Explorer Richard Parks for Seven-Continent Docuseries

Hollywood actor Will Smith embarked on a rare expedition to Antarctica guided by former Welsh rugby international turned explorer Richard Parks. The journey forms part of a new documentary series, Pole to Pole, which follows Smith’s travels across all seven continents.

The series, five years in the making, will premiere on 14 January on National Geographic in the UK and stream on Disney+. Each episode pairs Smith with scientists, adventurers and experts who introduce him to unfamiliar environments, cultures and extreme conditions.

A Transformative Experience in Earth’s Harshest Environment

Parks said sharing Antarctica with Smith was “special.” As guide for the first episode, his role was to help the actor understand the fragility, beauty and danger of the southernmost continent. He told BBC Radio Wales that the isolation of Antarctica “peels back the psychological and social layers” modern life creates.

The explorer believes Smith may not have experienced that depth of solitude “since his childhood.” He added that the continent demands mental resilience, humility and respect.

The pair’s dynamic included tense but good-natured exchanges. Parks recalled warning Smith when the actor began dancing on the polar plateau, joking that Antarctica is “not the place to bust moves,” due to strict environmental preservation protocols.

Small Crew, Big Challenge

Filming conditions in the hostile climate required a minimal production crew. Parks said the tiny team made the journey feel intimate. He described Smith as thoughtful, humble and intensely curious throughout filming.

While Parks downplayed the idea of conflict on the ice, he acknowledged the pressure of keeping Smith safe. “Arguments is a strong word,” he said, “but yes, a few harsh words were exchanged.”

Despite challenging conditions, Parks said he left feeling “inspired,” impressed by Smith’s willingness to embrace risk and vulnerability in extreme environments.

A New Chapter in Smith’s Public Journey

The project marks one of Smith’s most immersive documentary efforts to date. Known primarily for starring roles in major Hollywood franchises and dramas, Smith has broadened his creative focus in recent years through unscripted series and exploratory content addressing resilience and personal transformation.

Parks said he first learned of the series in 2020 through a confidential email. The limited information at the time simply asked whether he would be willing to discuss guiding Smith in Antarctica. Reflecting on the opportunity, he admitted he is “still pinching himself.”

Richard Parks’ Journey From Rugby Pitch to Polar Plateau

Before becoming an adventurer, Parks represented Wales internationally before retiring early due to a shoulder injury in 2009. He later transitioned into extreme sports and record-setting expeditions. In 2011, he became the first person to climb the highest mountain on each of the world’s seven continents and stand on all three poles in the same calendar year. His previous documentary, Richard Parks – Conquering the World, chronicled that challenge.

Pole to Pole continues Parks’s progression as explorer and presenter, while showcasing Smith’s personal engagement with wilderness environments rarely witnessed by celebrities.

The seven-continent adventure promises compelling storytelling, breathtaking landscapes and introspective moments as Smith explores vulnerability and resilience in unfamiliar terrain.