In 2024, the scientific community announced the discovery of a new species of giant anaconda in South America, a find partially documented during a 2022 expedition that included actor Will Smith. Smith was present as part of filming for National Geographic's documentary series, "Pole to Pole with Will Smith."

The discovery unfolded as Smith, accompanied by venom expert Bryan Fry and indigenous Waorani guides, navigated the Amazonian waterways in search of anacondas. A three-minute clip from the documentary showcases the team's encounter with a female green anaconda, estimated to be 16 to 17 feet long. The Waorani guides secured the snake, allowing Fry, with assistance from Smith, to collect a scale sample.

According to Fry, the collected samples, including the scale, were crucial for conducting genetic analysis. This analysis ultimately led to the declaration of a new species, the northern green anaconda. Fry also noted that the scale sample would help determine the accumulation of pollutants in the water, highlighting the environmental significance of the research.

The involvement of a high-profile celebrity like Will Smith underscores the growing trend of merging entertainment with scientific exploration. Industry insiders suggest that Smith's participation likely broadened the audience for the documentary, attracting viewers who might not typically engage with nature documentaries. This approach has the potential to raise awareness about biodiversity and conservation efforts.

The cultural impact of this discovery extends to the indigenous Waorani community, whose expertise and knowledge of the Amazonian ecosystem were vital to the expedition's success. Their involvement highlights the importance of collaboration between scientists and local communities in biodiversity research.

The documentary series, "Pole to Pole with Will Smith," offers viewers a firsthand look at the challenges and rewards of scientific discovery, blending entertainment with educational content. The discovery of the new anaconda species serves as a reminder of the vast biodiversity still hidden within the Amazon rainforest and the importance of continued research and conservation efforts. The documentary is available on National Geographic and Disney+, allowing audiences to witness Smith's Amazon experience and learn about the new species firsthand.