In 2024, the discovery of a new anaconda species in South America was announced, with Will Smith playing an unexpected role. The actor was part of a National Geographic camera crew, filming for the documentary series "Pole to Pole with Will Smith." During the expedition, Smith, along with venom expert Bryan Fry and indigenous Waorani guides, encountered a giant green anaconda. The team collected scale samples for analysis, which, along with other collected data, led to the identification of the northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayama), genetically distinct from the southern green anaconda.

This new species' habitat includes Venezuela, Colombia, Suriname, French Guyana, and northern Brazil. This discovery underscores the importance of scientific exploration and the potential for new findings in diverse ecosystems. The documentary, premiering on January 13, 2026, on Disney+, highlights the intersection of celebrity, science, and conservation, potentially raising public awareness and interest in wildlife research and environmental protection.