WASHINGTON?Discovery Communications said Thursday it will air an eight-part documentary highlighting the wonders of Alaska and featuring Republican superstar Sarah Palin, a native of the 49th US state.

News reports said she could fetch as much as $1 million per episode, although sources with inside knowledge of the deal have called that rumored sum inflated.

"Discovery Communications is so excited to help Sarah Palin tell the story of Alaska," said Peter Liquori, the company's chief operating officer, who said the series would reveal the state's hidden beauty as told by one of its "proudest daughters."

Palin, in the same statement, said: "Our family enjoys Discovery's networks," and added that she hopes "to bring the wonder and majesty of Alaska to all Americans."

The deal was widely reported in the US media earlier this week.

The series will have as its executive producer Emmy-award winner Mark Burnett of "Survivor" and "Apprentice" fame, who praised the ex-governor's "dynamic personality that has captivated millions."

"I can't think of anyone more compelling than Sarah Palin to tell the story of Alaska," Burnett said.

Palin, who inspires both unbridled admiration among supporters and aversion among her detractors, reportedly will play the role of tour guide in the new series, which will air on the network's TLC channel.

Palin had a brief cameo in the Discovery Channel's 2008 documentary on Iditarod -- a sled race in which her husband Todd competes.

She is likely to attract viewers from among her supporters, curious critics, and political observers watching for clues as to whether she will run for president in 2012.

She has not ruled out a bid for the top office, after her failed 2008 vice-presidential run alongside Republican presidential candidate John McCain.