Zach Galifianakis, a Hollywood star, has ventured into a new project upon moving to a southern British Columbia island – he has launched a gardening show titled “This is a Gardening Show.” This documentary series, set to debut on Netflix this month in honor of Earth Day on April 22, showcases interviews with farmers and children from Vancouver Island.
Galifianakis shared with CBC News that his interest in gardening stems from his 25-year history as a hobby gardener. He expressed a desire to impart his passion for gardening to others, particularly emphasizing the rich tradition of exceptional gardeners in the Vancouver Island region that he hopes the next generation will continue.
The series focuses on engaging young viewers and inspiring them to explore the origins of their food, a cause close to Galifianakis’s heart as a parent. The show features interactions with students at Brooklyn Elementary School in Comox, blending the comedian’s signature off-beat humor with practical discussions on cultivating fruits and vegetables.
Galifianakis emphasized the importance of educating youth about climate issues, anticipating potential challenges ahead. The program aims to equip young people with knowledge to adapt to future environmental changes effectively.
Moreover, the show highlights adult farmers and gardeners from southern British Columbia islands, including food security advocate Arzeena Hamir of Amara Farm in the Comox Valley. Hamir commended the choice of Vancouver Island as the series’ setting, noting the increasing relevance of gardening in the current global context.
Galifianakis, in the lead-up to the show’s release, is dedicated to nurturing his own island garden, particularly focusing on cultivating his beloved sugar pumpkins. He humorously shared his ambition to make 30 pumpkin pies for Christmas, emphasizing his preference for graham cracker crusts in a light-hearted manner.
The upcoming series is poised to attract a diverse audience, introducing unconventional gardening content to a wider viewership and promoting the joy of growing food in an engaging and informative way.