Krystal Janicki, a commercial and residential painter from Black Creek, B.C., has gained a reputation in her community as the “octopus whisperer.” Janicki has been diving for nine years and started making connections with local cephalopods about seven years ago. She believes the octopuses come to her because she looks awkward and in need of help. Janicki’s unique bond with these creatures has led her to be featured in the National Geographic series Secrets of the Octopus, produced by James Cameron and narrated by Paul Rudd. The series showcases various species of octopus in multiple countries.
In the series, Janicki is the human character for the Giant Pacific Octopus story. She was asked to help find octopuses for the film crew, but her reputation as the octopus whisperer ultimately led to her being a part of the story. Janicki worked with underwater cinematographer Maxwel Hohn, who describes filming the shy creatures as a challenging task due to their ability to blend seamlessly into their surroundings. After spending hours searching, they were discouraged until a curious octopus finally emerged from its den, leading them on a fascinating tour of the reef.
Janicki never expected her bond with the octopus to lead to her involvement in the series. She enjoyed working with the scientists involved in the project to learn more about nature and hopes that her role in showcasing the octopus in the series will help people appreciate and respect these creatures more. Janicki is not seeking fame from her experience but rather wants to inspire others to recognize the incredible nature of octopuses and to have a greater respect for marine life and the ocean in general.
The National Geographic series Secrets of the Octopus streams in Canada on Nat Geo TV and Disney+, exploring various species of octopus from different locations around the world. Janicki’s story in the series highlights her unique bond with the octopus and her passion for showcasing the beauty and complexity of these creatures. The series offers viewers a glimpse into the mysterious world of the octopus and the incredible interactions that can occur between humans and these intelligent marine animals.
Filming for the series began two years ago, and Janicki’s experiences with the octopus have been documented in a way that showcases the wonder and magic of these creatures. Her collaboration with underwater cinematographer Maxwel Hohn has resulted in stunning footage that gives viewers a firsthand look at the behavior and character of the octopus. Through her work on the series, Janicki hopes to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and protection of marine life, emphasizing the need for respect and appreciation for the ocean’s inhabitants.
Overall, Krystal Janicki’s journey as the octopus whisperer and her role in the National Geographic series Secrets of the Octopus highlight the fascinating connections that can be formed between humans and marine creatures. Her dedication to showcasing the beauty and complexity of the octopus serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our oceans and the diverse species that call them home. Janicki’s story is a testament to the wonders of nature and the profound impact that these interactions can have on those who are fortunate enough to experience them.
