Travel Channel Triggers Mid-Season Pick Up of 'Expedition Unknown' with Josh Gates

With adventure-laden expeditions, compelling storytelling and unique insight into the world's biggest legends and stories, Travel Channel's "Expedition Unknown" with explorer Josh Gates has been renewed midseason for 14 new hour-long episodes. Production on the new season is slated to begin this spring.

The popular series continues to deliver year-over-year ratings growth for the network - attracting more than 6.2 million total viewers since its season premiere on Wednesday, December 27 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The current season has delivered double-digit ratings increases among M25-54 and an average seven percent rise in ratings among P25-54 for its timeslot.

The February 7th and February 14th episodes - a two-part special focusing on the great women of ancient Egypt - averaged a live plus same day rating of .50 among viewers P25-54, growing its timeslot by 39 percent versus last year. Additionally, "Expedition Unknown: After the Hunt" - the two after show specials that premiered at 10 p.m. ET/PT, nearly doubled last year's ratings for the timeslot.

"'Expedition Unknown' continues to grow and take on a life of its own and Josh's passion for adventure is a big part of that," said Courtney White, senior vice president, programming, Travel Channel, Food Network and Cooking Channel. "He's the consummate storyteller whose knowledge of history and culture enhances each expedition and heightens the viewing experience, which is why fans can't get enough."

ABOUT TRAVEL CHANNEL

For virtual and active travelers who want to go on a thrilling quest; taste other cultures; enjoy the mystery of the unexplored; get a dose of epic adventure or a splash of wacky fun; there is no better daily escape than Travel Channel. Reaching more than 83 million U.S. cable homes, Travel Channel is the world's leading travel media brand. Fans also can visit for more information or interact with other fans through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Travel Channel is owned by Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc., which also owns and operates HGTV, DIY Network, Food Network, Cooking Channel and Great American Country.