Judah Friedlander Hosts 'The Monster Project' on Nat Geo

Adding to the plethora of paranormal programming this month is a three-part special airing on the National Geographic Channel called “The Monster Project.” Hosted by actor/comedian and World Champion, Judah Friedlander (“30 Rock”), the first episode airs at 8 p.m. on October 26 and explores the legend of the Jersey Devil. The Chupacabra and America's Loch Ness Monster also get their turn at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m.

The main mission of the specials is to delve deeper into the history/legends surrounding these cryptids and to look for scientific evidence of their existence. Through eye-witness accounts and the input of experts, their destination is proof.

Sound familiar? There are obviously quite a few shows that have been done on this subject but this special has a twist. Friedlander’s hosting and commentary throughout is quite entertaining and I found myself genuinely laughing out loud.

I had the pleasure of viewing the Jersey Devil episode that airs on October 26. In case you’re not familiar with the folklore, the Jersey Devil is said to be the cursed 13th child of Jane “Mother” Leeds. Born in February of 1735, the fearsome creature has the torso of a man, the head of a horse, the feet of a goat, a long serpentine tail and the wings of a bat. He roams the vast Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey and many residents have claimed to see him.

The hour-long episode features a local paranormal team that heads into the dark woods looking for proof of this elusive beast. Why does it always have to be at night? Maybe he’s sleeping? They also venture into the actual home where ol’ JD was said to be born. Do they find their proof? I’m not telling!

Like any show about the paranormal, this one also tries to debunk. Is it a Sand Crane? A left over Pterosaur? Or maybe it’s whatever lives under Judah’s trucker hat? It’s probably that.

Overall, the episode entertained me, mostly thanks to Friedlander’s comedy. I didn’t really learn anything new but this is mainly because I'm a cryptid nerd and I tend to overload my brain with this information. I would recommend “The Monster Project” for your Saturday night viewing pleasure and I look forward to watching the “Chupacabra” episode at 9 p.m. and “America’s Loch Ness Monster” at 10 p.m. on Nat Geo.

The episodes will re-air on Halloween night starting at 8 p.m. ET.

-Larissa Mrykalo