ZARA McDERMOTT EXPLORES THAILAND FOR LATEST BBC THREE DOCUMENTARY SERIES

In this new documentary series made by South Shore Productions, Zara McDermott: Thailand (w/t) will explore the destination increasingly seen as a rite of passage for young Brits.

Starting in bustling Bangkok and travelling to the party islands, with unprecedented access and a lively cast of characters, Zara will take a journey throughout the country to discover why hundreds of thousands of young Brits flock to this exotic location every year.

From backpackers to those who are seeking longer term roots – the new documentary will unearth the secrets of this vast and varied country and look into what can happen when the dream of paradise goes wrong.

Zara has previously brought viewers a range of thought provoking and critically acclaimed documentaries on the BBC over the last few years on a host of important topics including revenge porn, sexism and ‘rape culture’ in UK schools and the rise of young people experiencing eating disorders, with the previously announced Zara McDermott: Stalked (w/t) documentary coming soon.

The documentaries continue to resonate with the BBC Three’s core audience of 16-34s, with Ibiza: Secrets of the Party Island delivering an average audience of 1.2m over 28 days, of which over 200k were 16-34s and Ibiza and The Idaho Murders: Trial by TikTok in the top 10 BBC Three titles in 2024 among 16-34s.

Zara McDermott says: “I’m excited to discover a country that so many young people like me are heading to right now. There’s clearly a fascination with the nightlife, parties and stunning beaches - but there seems to be other intriguing reasons people are going to Thailand and staying.”

Naomi Templeton, Executive Producer says: “We’re thrilled to be working with Zara. She will offer a new perspective on the many reasons thousands of young Brits are drawn to explore Thailand every year.”

Clare Sillery, Head of Commissioning, Documentaries for the BBC says: “We’re delighted to work with Zara again on a new series exploring Thailand, a destination which holds a huge appeal for young travellers. Zara has an eye level connection with the BBC Three audience and the stories that matter to them.”

Zara McDermott: Thailand (3 x 45’) is a South Shore production for BBC Three and iPlayer.