Premiering on National Geographic Channel, channel 181 on DStv, on Wednesday, 22 April at 21:55 the hour-long, weekly series infuses pop culture with science, while bringing together comedians and celebrities to delve into a wide range of topics.

Each week, in a private interview, Tyson explores all the ways that science and technology have influenced the life and livelihood of his guests, whatever their background.

After his one-on-one interview, Tyson invites a comedian co-host and influencers in media, science and pop culture to join him in front of a studio audience to further break down the topic. In each episode, Tyson calls on his friend Bill Nye the 'Science Guy' to weigh in on the week’s theme; Nye shares his perspective on science, technology and even Star Trek via a pre-taped segment.

"Expanding the StarTalk radio show and podcast into a television show on National Geographic Channel offers a unique opportunity to show viewers how pervasive science is in our culture and how entertaining science can be," said Tyson. "Throughout the show we explore current issues with top industry leaders and pair that with comical, but informed, commentary. From politicians and actors to scientists, social activists and more, the impact of science knows no bounds."


Premiere episodes include:

StarTalk: George Takei

Premieres Wednesday, 22 April at 21:55.

This week’s theme is Star Trek as Inspiration for the Future. Tyson sits down with actor, author and activist George Takei to discuss how the once-futuristic scenarios in Star Trek relate to many of today’s current moral and social issues. Weighing in on this interview are astrophysicist Charles Liu and comedian Leighann Lord. Science educator and frequent guest host of StarTalk Bill Nye delves specifically into scenarios pertaining to technology and civil rights.

StarTalk: Christopher Nolan

Premieres Wednesday, 29 April at 21:55.

Tyson interviews director, screenwriter and producer Christopher Nolan about The Science of Interstellar. Nolan discusses how he translates his love of science to his films. Cosmologist Dr Janna Levin and comedian Eugene Mirman are on hand to add colourful commentary.

StarTalk: Dan Savage

Premieres Wednesday, 6 May at 21:55.

This week, Tyson and his guests delve into the science of Modern Love. Activist, author and journalist Dan Savage joins Dr. Tyson to discuss what love means in today’s society. Anthropologist Helen Fisher and comedian Chuck Nice add their insight to the conversation.

StarTalk: Arianna Huffington

Premieres Wednesday, 13 May at 21:55.

Tyson and Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post, explore Living in the Information Age. The two discuss how technology influences the rate and ways in which we communicate. Journalist Jeff Jarvis and comedian Chuck Nice add their insight.

StarTalk: Richard Dawkins

P remieres Wednesday, 20 May at 21:55.

StarTalk tackles a burning question: Can Science and Religion Coexist? Tyson and evolutionary biologist and ethologist Richard Dawkins debate whether science and religion can truly coexist in today’s society. Jesuit clergyman James Martin and comedian Eugene Mirman weigh in.

StarTalk: Jimmy Carter

Premieres Wednesday, 27 May at 21:55.

Tyson and US President Jimmy Carter examine the topic of Pulling the Plug on Pestilence. The duo discuss the importance of and progress toward ending fatal epidemic diseases. Museum curator Mark Siddall and comedian Chuck Nice share their views on this matter.

StarTalk: Chris Hadfield

Premieres Wednesday, 3 June at 21:55.

Social Media-Savvy Astronauts are taking over the cosmos. Tyson and Chris Hadfield, the first Canadian astronaut to walk in space, discuss social media milestones in space, and its usage among today’s astronauts. Former astronaut Dr Mike Massimo and comedian Eugene Mirman comment on this growing trend.

StarTalk: Biz Stone

Premieres Wednesday, 10 June at 21:55.

Tyson explores The Impact of Twitter on Society as he sits down with Biz Stone, co-founder of Twitter and co-founder/CEO of Super.me. The two discuss how the social media phenomenon has affected the way we communicate in today’s world. Sharing their experience and opinions are sociology professor Dr Alondra Nelson, journalist Clive Thompson, and comedian Eugene Mirman.

StarTalk: Charles Bolden/NASA

Premieres Wednesday, 17 June at 21:55.

This week’s theme is NASA’s Vision on Space. Tyson and major general Charles Bolden, administrator of NASA, examine NASA’s past, present and future. Astrophysicist Dr Michael Shara and science educator Bill Nye share their thoughts on the space program.

StarTalk: Norman Lear

Premieres Wednesday, 24 June at 21:55.

Tyson and Norman Lear, television writer and producer, discuss TV and the Evolution of American Culture. From All in the Family to The Big Bang Theory, the diverse television landscape and evolving American culture are explored. Author Saul Austerlitz and comedian Chuck Nice add their insight.

For more information, visit the National Geographic Channel South Africa's website. Alternatively, connect with them via Facebook and on Twitter.