Edward Michael “Bear” Grylls was born on 7 June 1974 in Donaghadee, Northern Ireland, and grew up on the Isle of Wight, England. From a young age he was passionate about outdoor pursuits including climbing, skydiving, and sailing, skills that later defined his career. After graduating, he served in the British Army’s Special Air Service (SAS) from 1994 to 1997, gaining rigorous survival and leadership training.

Grylls first found global fame with Man vs. Wild (also known as Born Survivor: Bear Grylls), which debuted in 2006 and featured him navigating extreme environments while demonstrating survival techniques. Following this, he went on to host popular series including Running Wild with Bear Grylls, You vs. Wild, The Island with Bear Grylls, and Celebrity Bear Hunt.

Beyond TV, Bear has written numerous bestselling books on survival and adventure, and works as a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide. He was appointed Chief Scout of The Scout Association in 2009, reinforcing his commitment to outdoor learning and youth engagement.

Bear Grylls is married to Shara Cannings-Knight and they have three sons, Jesse, Marmaduke (Mickey Percy), and Huckleberry Edward.