New PBS docuseries Grown Up Dad redefines fatherhood in a changing world
Premiering Nationally on PBS and Streaming on PBS
Philadelphia, PA – March 19, 2025 - Grown Up Dad, a groundbreaking documentary series exploring fatherhood from a dad’s point of view, premieres nationally on PBS and streams on PBS Passport this June.
Hosted by Joe Gidjunis, the five-part series takes an honest look at modern fatherhood, tackling masculinity, screen time challenges, friendship, loneliness, and digital citizenship. The series, consisting of five episodes, was inspired by Joe's personal experience of becoming a dad and the lack of advice and resources for new fathers.
The Grown Up Dad pilot premiered in June 2024, earning 80% station approval from 350 PBS affiliates and sparking widespread interest. Building on that momentum, 96% of PBS stations voted to air the full series this year, proving the demand for open conversations about fatherhood. With a projected audience of 100,000+ viewers, the series sheds light on the evolving role of dads in today’s world.
Throughout Season One, host Joe Gidjunis speaks with leading experts, thought leaders, and influential creators. Richard Reeves, author of Of Boys and Men, provides insight into the challenges facing modern men and shifting expectations of fatherhood. Former U.S. Army Secretary Patrick Murphy shares his perspective on leadership, resilience, and the emotional strength required to be an engaged parent.
As VP of Common Sense Media, Merve Lapus discusses the complexities of raising children in the digital age, offering guidance on screen time, online safety, and media consumption. Social media personalities The Dumb Dads (@thedumbdads), with a combined 1.5 million followers, bring humor and authenticity to the realities of modern parenting, while Chef Danny Freeman (@dannylovespasta), a viral creator with 1.5 million followers, shares how cooking can be a powerful way for dads to connect with their children.
Grown Up Dad isn’t just a show—it’s a conversation starter, challenging outdated ideas and inspiring fathers to be more present, engaged, and adaptable.
MEDIA REQUESTS: For more information about Grown Up Dad, please contact Abby Snopek at 717-517-6694 or via email at as@neffknows.com.
ABOUT GROWN UP DAD
Grown Up Dad is a documentary series that explores the evolving role of fatherhood in today’s world. Historically, being a dad meant providing financially, but as conversations around toxic masculinity and shifting gender roles continue, the definition of a "good father" has become more complex. Hosted by Joe Gidjunis, a father determined to break the cycle of absentee parenting, the series follows his journey to discover what it truly means to be an engaged and present dad. For more information, please visit: https://grownup.dad/
