Ó Briain has partnered with Krempelwood and BBC Studios twice before on science-themed docs

Dara Ó Briain will explore the power of volcanoes in a new, two-part doc for Channel 5.

Volcano with Dara Ó Briain (w/t) is a 2 x 60’ series co-produced by BBC Studios Science Unit and Krempelwood in which the comedian and science presenter heads to Italy to examine the immense power of the country’s most iconic volcanoes, including Stromboli, Vesuvius and Mount Etna.

The programme was commissioned by Denise Seneviratne, commissioning editor, unscripted at Channel 5. It is directed by Alastair Duncan and executive produced by Rob Liddell. It is the third series from Krempelwood, BBC Studios and Ó Briain, following Wonders of the Moon Wonders of the Sun.

Ó Briain said: “What an adventure! I got to clamber up the side of live volcanoes, and watch plumes of lava explode into the air; I learned how close we live to these magnificent, unstoppable monsters and saw how real their threat is. Then we drank wine from volcanic soil, ate the best pizza in the world and learned how to love life, under the shadow of destruction. Who said Geology was just rocks!

Seneviratne added: “Volcanoes have always captivated me. How insignificant we are in the face of the power of nature – I think this will really resonate with our viewers and who better to bring this to life than Dara Ó Briain with his enthusiasm and fresh outlook. Working with BBC Studios once again, who bring their expertise and creativity to the series, has been a real pleasure.”

Liddell said: “It is really exciting to be working with Dara again on this incredible trip to Europe’s most volcanic hotspot.  Dara uses his unique combination of amazing wit and passion for knowledge to uncover one of Earth’s most powerful forces. With him as our guide and BBC Studios Science Unit’s reputation for outstanding programming we’ve created a series that I believe will thrill audiences.”