Actor Zach Galifianakis has ventured into a new project upon relocating to a southern British Columbia island – a gardening show. Titled “This is a Gardening Show,” the documentary series will showcase interviews with farmers and children from Vancouver Island. Scheduled to debut on Netflix later this month in honor of Earth Day on April 22, the show is a reflection of Galifianakis’ 25-year history as a gardening enthusiast and his desire to inspire others with his passion.
Expressing his fondness for the Vancouver Island area where he has visited for three decades, Galifianakis emphasized the region’s rich tradition of skilled gardeners that he aims to uphold for future generations. The initiative behind the show was also driven by his concern for the food sources available today, particularly for children, prompting him to ignite a spark of interest in gardening among the youth.
The series prominently features the next generation of gardeners on Vancouver Island, including engaging conversations with students at Brooklyn Elementary School in Comox. Combining Galifianakis’ signature off-beat and witty style with practical advice on cultivating fruits and vegetables, the show intends to educate and prepare young viewers for potential climate challenges ahead.
Aside from interactions with youngsters, the series also highlights the experiences of established farmers and gardeners from the southern British Columbia islands. Notably, food security advocate Arzeena Hamir, co-owner of Amara Farm in Comox Valley, shares her insights on the importance of gardening in today’s context and the relevance of the show for a global audience.
Galifianakis, while awaiting the show’s release, is occupied with tending to his own island garden, particularly nurturing his prized sugar pumpkins. He humorously shares his aspiration to bake 30 pumpkin pies for Christmas, emphasizing his preference for a graham cracker crust as he continues to immerse himself in the art of gardening.