NBC To Premiere Behind-the-Scenes Special Exploring Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe Theme Park
- NBC is giving audiences an early look at Universal Orlando Resort’s most ambitious expansion to date with a new primetime special set to air Wednesday, August 20 at 9 PM.
- Hosted by actor Joe Manganiello, Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe will showcase the soon-to-open Universal Epic Universe park, followed by next-day streaming on Peacock.
- The hourlong special promises viewers an immersive tour of five unique worlds: Celestial Park, the Ministry of Magic from Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, the dragon-filled Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, and the monster-filled Dark Universe.
NBC is giving audiences an early look at Universal Orlando Resort’s most ambitious expansion to date with a new primetime special set to air Wednesday, August 20 at 9 PM. Hosted by actor Joe Manganiello, Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe will showcase the soon-to-open Universal Epic Universe park, followed by next-day streaming on Peacock.
The hourlong special promises viewers an immersive tour of five unique worlds: Celestial Park, the Ministry of Magic from Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, the dragon-filled Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, and the monster-filled Dark Universe.
Manganiello, known for roles in True Blood and Magic Mike, will guide the audience through these cinematic environments while joined by a slate of celebrity guests. Appearances include Bowen Yang, Bryce Dallas Howard, Michelle Yeoh, Matt Rogers, Mason Thames, Jon M. Chu, Nico Parker, Vin Diesel, and Warwick Davis.
One of the highlights of the special will be an extended conversation with Steven Spielberg. The iconic director—who serves as a creative consultant for Universal’s theme parks—will offer insight into the artistic vision and storytelling approach that shaped the park’s design.
As noted in the original Deadline exclusive, NBCUniversal’s Jen Neal described the park as unlike anything before it, blending high-tech innovation with pop culture icons to create fully immersive experiences. “Joe’s passion for film and ability to connect with audiences makes him the perfect choice to lead this adventure,” she said.
For Manganiello, the opportunity hits close to home. “I grew up loving movies, so getting to explore these incredible worlds in person—especially places like Dark Universe—is a dream,” he said in a statement.
Peacock will also be expanding on the experience later this year with Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks, a three-part docuseries that dives into Universal’s history in film-inspired attractions. The project will feature behind-the-scenes access and interviews with the creatives who helped shape the evolution of the parks.
