Award-winning documentarian Louis Theroux is set to revisit the West Bank in his upcoming BBC documentary "Louis Theroux: The Settlers," examining the region's evolving landscape 15 years after his previous film "The Ultra-Zionists."
The new documentary will focus on the growing ultra-nationalist Israeli settler communities in the disputed territory. These settlements, though considered illegal under international law, continue to receive protection from Israeli authorities.
The timing of Theroux's return is particularly relevant following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and approximately 250 kidnappings. In the aftermath, settler activities have intensified, with reports of increased violence and forced displacement of Palestinian communities.
"Since my last visit in 2010, those same extreme settlers are even more emboldened," Theroux explained. He aims to examine settler expansionism up close while exploring the human impact of these territorial disputes. The documentary maker noted that while the story is specific to this region, it offers broader insights into tribalism and human nature.
The BBC production will follow Theroux's signature immersive style as he embeds himself within the West Bank, meeting prominent settlers and traveling throughout the territory. The project is being produced by Mindhouse, Theroux's production company.
The documentary continues Theroux's pattern of revisiting previous subjects years later to document changes and developments. Josh Baker will direct the film, with Sara Obeidat as senior producer and Matan Cohen as producer. BBC Studios Distribution will handle global sales of the documentary.
This project follows Theroux's recent work, including the fourth season of his podcast featuring notable guests and television productions such as "Darts Lings," "Lockerbie," and "Boybands Forever."