Bear Grylls is a well-known face on television. He's probably best known for his survivalist shows pitting himself - or a group of celebrities against the elements to see what happens. But despite his own physical feats of endurance the former SAS trooper says his latest work - The Greatest Story Ever Told - a book dramatising the life of Jesus using his own words is his best achievement to date.
Grylls grew up on the Isle of Wight. He says his Christian parents were 'not churchy' and that it was the quiet faith of his grandfather that drew the very outdoorsy boy toward Christianity. At school he was exposed to strict Latin formal church services which left him cold but as a teen he had a change of heart after his Godfather died out of the blue and Grylls found himself praying a heartfelt prayer simply asking: Are you there?
He recommitted his faith and went on to serve with the British Army’s elite 21 SAS Regiment but in 1996, a parachuting accident left him with a broken back in three places. Defying the odds, he recovered and, at age 23, became one of the youngest people to summit Mount Everest.
Fame came via the TV show Man vs. Wild which showcased his survival skills in extreme environments. He has since hosted more programmes such as Running Wild with Bear Grylls, guiding celebrities through wilderness adventures which combines physical endurance, practical skills, and mental resilience.
He's never shied away from his faith fronting a campaign for Alpha as well as becoming Chief Scout for the Christian inspired boys group for 15-years from 2009 until September 2024.
He's also an author of several books, including Soul Fuel, a daily devotional sharing how faith connects with adventure. Mud, Sweat and Tears his best selling autobiography and How to Stay Alive: The Ultimate Survival Guide a comprehensive survival manual.
His latest book - The Greatest Story Ever Told is a dramatic, first-person narrative of Jesus's life aimed at younger readers. It uses modern terms such as referring to Jesus as “a Middle Eastern refugee” as well as eyewitness narratives.
In this episode of The Profile he talks to Sam Hailes, Premier Christianity Magazine editor, about the new book, his early life and developing faith and the achievements of his life so far.
The Profile is brought to you by Premier Christianity Magazine, the UK’s leading Christian magazine. Through our publication, you’ll access thought-provoking Christian content, including the latest news, inspiring interviews, and exclusive commentary. Take advantage of our special offer - just £6 for 3 issues plus full digital access to our website and back issues. Enrich your faith journey and subscribe today at premierchristianity.com/subscribe.