Shari Eckman

Written by Shari Eckman

Modified & Updated: 29 Sep 2024

30-facts-about-steve-backshall
Source: Stevebackshall.com

Who is Steve Backshall? Steve Backshall is a British naturalist, explorer, presenter, and writer. Born on April 21, 1973, in Surrey, England, he grew up surrounded by rescue animals, sparking his lifelong passion for wildlife. Known for his thrilling TV shows like Deadly 60 and Lost Land of the Tiger, Backshall has captivated audiences worldwide. His fearless approach to exploring dangerous creatures and remote locations has made him a beloved figure in wildlife conservation. Married to Olympic rower Helen Glover, Backshall continues to inspire with his dedication to protecting endangered species and educating the public about the natural world.

Key Takeaways:

  • Steve Backshall, a wildlife expert, author, and TV personality, has dedicated his life to exploring and protecting the natural world. His thrilling encounters with dangerous animals and passion for conservation inspire young audiences to appreciate wildlife.
  • From facing physical challenges like diving with sharks to promoting environmental stewardship through public speaking, Steve Backshall's legacy as a conservation advocate and explorer continues to educate and entertain audiences worldwide.
Table of Contents

Early Life and Education

Steve Backshall's journey into the wild began early, shaped by his surroundings and experiences.

  1. Steve Backshall was born on April 21, 1973, in Surrey, England. His parents worked for British Airways, which exposed him to a world of travel and adventure from a young age.

  2. He grew up in Bagshot, surrounded by rescue animals. This smallholding lifestyle instilled a deep love for the outdoors and wildlife.

  3. Backshall attended Collingwood College in Camberley and Brooklands College in Surrey. These institutions provided the foundation for his academic pursuits.

  4. He later studied English and Theatre Studies at the University of Exeter. This education helped him develop his storytelling skills, crucial for his future career.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming a household name, Backshall's career had humble beginnings marked by exploration and writing.

  1. After university, he backpacked solo around Asia, India, and Africa. These adventures laid the groundwork for his future expeditions.

  2. He began working as an author for Rough Guides. Contributing to their Indonesia guide marked the start of his wildlife writing career.

  3. Backshall pitched a TV nature series to National Geographic. This bold move led to his unique job title, "Adventurer in Residence."

Television Shows

Steve Backshall's television career has captivated audiences worldwide with thrilling wildlife encounters.

  1. His most famous series is Deadly 60. This show explores the deadliest creatures on the planet and has been broadcast in over 150 countries.

  2. Other notable shows include Lost Land of the Tiger, Lost Land of the Volcano, and Lost Land of the Jaguar. These series showcase his expertise in wildlife filmmaking and expedition leadership.

  3. In 2015, he co-presented Big Blue Live. This series, featuring marine life in Monterey Bay, California, won a BAFTA for best live series.

Conservation Efforts

Backshall's commitment to wildlife conservation is evident in his work and advocacy.

  1. He has been involved in various conservation projects worldwide. These efforts focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats.

  2. Backshall actively supports several conservation organizations. His dedication to environmental stewardship is unwavering.

Personal Life

Steve Backshall's personal life is as adventurous as his professional one.

  1. He is married to Olympic champion rower Helen Glover. Their shared love for adventure and the outdoors fuels their drive to make a positive impact.

  2. During the COVID-19 lockdown, he observed significant changes in nature. The Thames River became a wildlife refuge, highlighting the importance of preserving habitats.

Physical Challenges

Backshall's fearless approach to exploration has led him to face numerous physical challenges.

  1. He has dived with sharks, including the Great White. These encounters showcase his bravery and understanding of these formidable creatures.

  2. His mountaineering endeavors have taken him to breathtaking heights. Climbing mountains in remote regions immerses him in the beauty and challenges of rugged landscapes.

  3. In 2016, he attempted another first ascent in Venezuela. The expedition nearly ended in tragedy due to a storm and rockfall.

Scientific Research

Steve Backshall's expeditions have contributed significantly to scientific research.

  1. His fieldwork provides valuable insights into species behavior and conservation needs. This research informs conservation strategies and advances our understanding of wildlife.

Writing Career

Backshall is also a prolific author, sharing his adventures and knowledge through books.

  1. He has published several books on animals and adventure. His writing style captivates readers, offering a deeper look into the world of wildlife.

  2. Notable books include Venom: Poisonous Creatures in the Natural World and Deadly 60. These works educate readers about unique species and their habitats.

Social Media Presence

Backshall uses social media to connect with a broader audience and promote conservation.

  1. He has a strong presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Sharing breathtaking photos and educational content helps inspire more people to appreciate and protect nature.

Career Milestones

Steve Backshall's career is marked by significant achievements and milestones.

  1. He participated in the twelfth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014. Partnered with Ola Jordan, they left the series in week nine.

  2. In 2017, he led an expedition to New Guinea for a BBC documentary. The team of whitewater kayakers faced numerous challenges while attempting the first descent of a mighty river.

Encounters with Dangerous Animals

Backshall's encounters with dangerous animals are a testament to his bravery and expertise.

  1. He has filmed the Humboldt squid for Deadly 60. This remarkable creature is just one of many he has encountered.

  2. He has swum with great white sharks and faced venomous snakes and spiders. These experiences showcase his understanding and respect for these creatures.

Influence on Young Audiences

Backshall's work has a significant impact on young audiences, inspiring a love for wildlife.

  1. Deadly 60 uses engaging storytelling to educate viewers about the natural world. The series has been instrumental in inspiring young people to appreciate wildlife.

  2. His books and shows aim to inspire the next generation of naturalists. Providing guides for having adventures in the UK encourages outdoor education and environmental stewardship.

Personal Passion for Sharks

Steve Backshall's fascination with sharks began at a young age.

  1. He first snorkelled in Malaysia at nine years old. This early encounter sparked a lifelong passion for sharks.

Public Speaking

Backshall is a charismatic speaker, promoting environmental stewardship through public talks.

  1. He has given numerous presentations, inspiring audiences to appreciate and protect nature. His dedication and enthusiasm ignite a love for the natural world in people of all ages.

Legacy

Steve Backshall's legacy extends beyond his television shows and books.

  1. He is a true advocate for conservation, inspiring the next generation of naturalists and explorers. His work continues to educate and entertain audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on our understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

Steve Backshall: A True Wildlife Hero

Steve Backshall's life is a testament to passion, resilience, and dedication to wildlife conservation. From his early days surrounded by rescue animals to his daring expeditions and captivating TV shows, he's inspired countless people to appreciate and protect the natural world. His fearless encounters with dangerous creatures, commitment to scientific research, and engaging storytelling have made him a beloved figure in wildlife programming. Whether diving with sharks, climbing remote mountains, or writing books that ignite curiosity, Backshall's influence is undeniable. His work continues to educate and entertain, leaving a lasting impact on conservation efforts and inspiring the next generation of naturalists. Steve Backshall isn't just a TV presenter or author; he's a true wildlife hero, making a real difference in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Steve Backshall?
Steve Backshall is a renowned British explorer, naturalist, and television presenter. He's best known for his work on the BBC's wildlife series "Deadly 60," where he tracks down the world's most dangerous animals. His adventures have taken him across all seven continents, diving into the depths of the oceans and scaling the highest mountains.
What kind of TV shows has Steve Backshall been involved in?
Besides "Deadly 60," Steve has been a part of numerous other television projects. These include "Lost Land of the Tiger," "Lost Land of the Volcano," and "Lost Land of the Jaguar," where he explores some of Earth's most remote habitats. He's also presented "Expedition with Steve Backshall," which sees him undertaking first ascents and descents of uncharted territories.
Has Steve Backshall received any awards for his work?
Yes, indeed! Steve's dedication to wildlife and conservation has earned him several accolades. Notably, he's been awarded the BAFTA for Best Children's Television Presenter and his shows have received awards for their contribution to educating and inspiring the next generation about the natural world.
What books has Steve Backshall written?
Steve is also a prolific author, having written both fiction and non-fiction. His works include "Tiger Wars," a novel aimed at young adults, and "Expedition: Adventures into Undiscovered Worlds," which details some of his most thrilling explorations. His books often focus on adventure, wildlife, and conservation.
Is Steve Backshall involved in any conservation efforts?
Absolutely! Steve is a passionate conservationist. He's an ambassador for several wildlife charities and organizations, including the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Through his television programs, books, and public speaking, Steve actively promotes the protection of endangered species and habitats.
How can I follow Steve Backshall's adventures?
Fans can keep up with Steve's expeditions through his social media accounts, where he regularly posts updates and behind-the-scenes content from his travels and television shoots. Additionally, his website features news, upcoming events, and more information on his conservation work.
What inspired Steve Backshall to pursue a career in wildlife presenting?
From a young age, Steve was fascinated by the natural world. His early expeditions, including a solo trip to the jungles of Colombia at age 18, fueled his passion for exploration and wildlife. This deep-seated love for adventure and a desire to share the wonders of nature with others led him to a career in television presenting and conservation.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.