RTÉ’s Ireland’s Wild Islands wins Best Series at 2025 Wildlife Film Festival

Image: Nick Massett

RTÉ’s acclaimed documentary series Ireland’s Wild Islands has secured the prestigious Best Series award at the 2025 International Wildlife Film Festival in Montana, USA, cementing its place among the world’s finest natural history productions.

The series, which outshone fierce international competition, was lauded for its captivating fusion of Ireland’s rugged landscapes, rich folklore, and rare wildlife, earning high praise from the festival’s jury.

Held annually, the International Wildlife Film Festival is one of the most esteemed events in natural history filmmaking, celebrating excellence in storytelling that illuminates the wonders of the natural world.

The jury described Ireland’s Wild Islands as a standout achievement, noting:

“This series transported us to windswept and wild islands, where ancient monasteries cling to cliffs and wild seas harbour secrets both mythical and ecological. What stood out to us the most was the enchanting blend of history, folklore, and rare wildlife behaviour—a hallmark of the genre, but here delivered with an especially distinctive voice.”

Produced by Westport-based Crossing the Line Productions and hosted by presenter and naturalist Eoin Warner, the three-part series aired on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, taking viewers on an evocative journey through Ireland’s western isles aboard a traditional Galway Hooker.

For Warner, the project was deeply personal, dedicated to the memory of his late father, who introduced him to the sea’s wonders before his tragic death in the Whiddy Island disaster.

Image: George Karbus

The series, supported by Coimisiún na Meán’s Sound and Vision Fund, was commissioned by RTÉ in partnership with Blue Ant Media, ARTE, Love Nature, WRAP Fund, Tourism Ireland, and incentives for filmmaking from the Government of Ireland.

Director John Murray expressed his pride at the accolade, stating:

“We’re so honoured to win this award up against the very best wildlife films from around the world, and it’s especially gratifying with such a personal Irish project. Our islands are very special places and vital sanctuaries for some of our most precious and wonderful wildlife.”

The series has already garnered significant recognition, having previously won Best Specialist Factual Series at the 2024 RTS Ireland Awards and earned accolades at three leading global wildlife film festivals: Wildscreen in the UK, Jackson Wild in the US, and Green Screen in Germany.

Its triumph at the International Wildlife Film Festival further underscores its international appeal and exceptional quality.

Image: Madeleine Weber

Colm O’Callaghan, RTÉ’s Head of Specialist Factual, hailed the achievement as a testament to Ireland’s prowess in natural history filmmaking.

“RTÉ has a long and proud track record in this field,” he said. “We’re fortunate to work regularly with exceptional, regionally located production companies who consistently compete at the highest international standards. Crossing The Line Films, based in Westport, County Mayo, is one of those companies. Ireland’s Wild Islands is a terrific achievement, a generational series, and this award is testament to that.”

The series’ success highlights the unique beauty and ecological significance of Ireland’s western isles, showcasing their role as sanctuaries for rare wildlife and repositories of cultural heritage. By weaving together natural history, historical narratives, and personal storytelling, Ireland’s Wild Islands has resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning its place as a landmark in Irish broadcasting.

As the global spotlight shines on Ireland’s wild shores, this latest accolade reinforces the importance of preserving these pristine environments and celebrates the talent and dedication of the country’s filmmakers.

For those yet to experience the series, Ireland’s Wild Islands remains available on RTÉ Player, offering a window into the untamed beauty of Ireland’s coastal treasures.

Published: 20 April 2025