Steve Backshall

Award-Winning Wildlife Presenter of The BBC’s “Deadly 60”, Explorer, Conservation Advocate & Bestselling Author of “Wildlings”

Steve Backshall’s Biography:

Steve Backshall is one of the UK’s most celebrated wildlife presenters, naturalists and explorers, known for his fearless expeditions and exceptional ability to bring the wonders of the natural world to global audiences. Rising to prominence on the BBC’s Deadly franchise, Steve has since become a household name through his work on Blue Planet Live, Expedition with Steve Backshall, Lost Land of the Jaguar and a wide range of landmark wildlife documentaries. His career blends scientific exploration, conservation advocacy and award-winning broadcasting, earning him an MBE for services to charity and wildlife conservation.

Raised on a smallholding surrounded by rescue animals, Steve’s early life laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for wildlife. After beginning his career with National Geographic in 1998 as the channel’s Adventurer in Residence, he spent years exploring some of Earth’s most remote environments. He attempted a solo crossing of western New Guinea in 1997, spearheaded early expeditions across Southeast Asia and Latin America, and soon became an emerging force in adventure broadcasting through Expedition Borneo and Lost Land of the Volcano.

Today, Steve is recognised for pushing the boundaries of natural history storytelling. His BBC and Discovery Channel projects have taken him deep into jungles, up mountains, inside caves and into underwater worlds few have explored. He has fronted documentaries on BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Four, Sky One, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel, and has authored an extensive range of books, including Deep Blue, Expedition Adventures and Wildlings: How to Raise Your Family in Nature. Beyond television, Steve continues to champion conservation through fundraising, public speaking and educational outreach.

Steve’s impact extends far beyond his screen work. He is a multi-award-winning presenter, receiving two BAFTAs, a Blue Peter Gold Badge and international recognition for his expedition films. His 2023 world record for paddling the length of the River Thames further demonstrated his commitment to adventure and conservation. With honorary degrees from Bangor University and Canterbury Christ Church University, he remains a leading voice in conservation, exploration and environmental education.

Why Hire Steve Backshall?

Steve Backshall is an inspiring and charismatic speaker who brings the natural world to life through gripping storytelling and extraordinary real-world experience. Whether sharing tales from unexplored caves, jungle expeditions or survival in extreme environments, he captivates audiences with authenticity, warmth and infectious enthusiasm. His message blends adventure, science and conservation, offering powerful insights into teamwork, resilience, risk management and the urgent need to protect the planet. With a broadcasting career spanning the BBC, Discovery, National Geographic and more, Steve is an ideal choice for organisations seeking a speaker who can educate, inspire and ignite curiosity about the world around us.

Steve Backshall’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Steve Backshall’s inspirational career from television to wildlife:

• 2025 – Received an honorary doctorate from Canterbury Christ Church University for contribution to wildlife media and public life.
• 2023 – Broke the world record for the fastest paddle of the River Thames.
• 2023 – Completed a sell-out UK theatre tour with his live show Ocean.
• 2023 – Published the book Deep Blue.
• 2022 – Published Wildlings: How to Raise Your Family in Nature.
• 2019 – Co-presented Blue Planet Live on BBC One and published Expedition Adventures.
• 2017 – Won Charity Fundraiser of the Year after raising £360,000 for the World Land Trust.
• 2016 – Fronted the BBC series Extreme Mountain Challenge.
• 2013 – Voiced Nature’s Microworlds on BBC Four and travelled on multiple global expeditions.
• 2011 – Won two BAFTA Awards for Best Children’s Television Presenter and Best Factual Series.
• 2008 – Presented major BBC adventure programmes including Lost Land of the Jaguar, Ultimate Caving and Secret Wilderness Japan.
• 2008 – Launched the iconic Deadly 60 series.
• 2005 – Filmed Expedition Borneo, later nominated for an Emmy Award.
• 2003 – Joined BBC’s The Really Wild Show as a presenter.