Liz Bonnin From Paris to the Wild
Introduction
Liz Bonnin has become one of the most recognisable faces in wildlife and science broadcasting. With a unique background that spans continents and cultures, she has carved out a remarkable career exploring our planet’s most fascinating ecosystems. From her early days in Paris to presenting award-winning documentaries, her journey reflects dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to conservation.
Biography: Liz Bonnin
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elizabeth Bonnin |
| Known As | Liz Bonnin |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1976 |
| Age | 49 (as of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | Paris, France |
| Nationality | French–Irish |
| Ethnicity / Heritage | French-Martiniquan, Trinidadian; Indian & Portuguese descent |
| Parents | Father: French-Martiniquan (name private); Mother: Trinidadian (deceased, Dec 2020) |
| Siblings | One older sister (Benni) |
| Raised In | Dublin, Ireland (moved at age 9) |
| Education (Bachelor’s) | BSc in Biochemistry, Trinity College Dublin |
| Education (Master’s) | MSc in Wild Animal Biology, Zoological Society of London & Royal Veterinary College |
| Academic Distinction | Graduated first in class; tiger field research in Nepal |
| Early Career | Singer (The Pale; pop group “Chill”), Irish TV presenter |
| Primary Profession | Wildlife & science television presenter |
| Years Active | Late 1990s – present |
| Breakthrough Science Show | Bang Goes the Theory (BBC) |
| Notable Wildlife Programs | Galapagos, Wild Alaska Live, Operation Snow Tiger, Big Blue Live, Animals in Love, Super Smart Animals |
| Major Environmental Docs | Drowning in Plastic (award-winning), Meat: A Threat to Our Planet? |
| Recent Projects | Liz Bonnin’s Wild Caribbean (2023), Secrets of the Jurassic Dinosaurs (2024), Our Changing Planet |
| Podcasts | What Planet Are We On, Dead River (2024) |
| Advocacy Role | President, The Wildlife Trusts (since 2020; first woman) |
| Ambassador | EDF Energy – Pretty Curious (STEM for girls) |
| Awards & Recognition | RTS & Grierson Awards (for Drowning in Plastic); widely recognised science communicator |
| Marital Status | Not publicly disclosed |
| Residence | London, United Kingdom |
| Languages | English, French |
| Known For | Liz Bonnin’s Wild Caribbean (2023), Secrets of the Jurassic Dinosaurs (2024), and Our Changing Planet |
Background & Early Life
Born on September 16, 1976, in Paris, France, Liz Bonnin entered the world with a rich cultural heritage. Liz Bonnin’s parents came from diverse backgrounds—her father was French-Martiniquan, while her mother hailed from Trinidad. This multicultural upbringing gave her a unique perspective that would later inform her work as a presenter.
Liz Bonnin’s family includes her older sister, Benni, with whom she shared her childhood years. The sisters grew up in a household that celebrated their mixed heritage, which includes French, Indian, and Portuguese descent. Who is Liz Bonnin’s father? While specific details about him remain relatively private, it’s known that he contributed to her French-Martiniquan heritage, which has been an integral part of her identity.
At the age of nine, her life took a significant turn when the family relocated to Dublin, Ireland. This move would prove pivotal, as Ireland became her adopted home and shaped much of her early career. Growing up, she maintained a particularly close relationship with her grandmother, who passed away in 2003—a loss that deeply affected her.
Education & Academic Foundation
Unlike many television presenters who stumble into science programming, Liz Bonnin arrived with serious academic credentials. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Trinity College Dublin, demonstrating early on that her interest in the natural world was grounded in rigorous scientific study.
But she didn’t stop there. Driven by a passion for wildlife conservation, she pursued a Master’s degree in wild animal biology through the Zoological Society of London and the Royal Veterinary College. Her research took her to Nepal, where she tracked tigers in their natural habitat. She graduated first in her class, a testament to her dedication and intellect.
This combination of entertainment skills and scientific expertise would become her trademark, setting her apart in the competitive world of science broadcasting.
Early Career: Music & Entertainment
Before becoming synonymous with wildlife documentaries, Liz Bonnin explored a completely different creative path. She began her career as a vocalist for an Irish band called “The Pale,” showcasing her musical talents. She later joined an all-girl pop group named “Chill,” which signed with Polydor Records. Though the band dissolved before releasing an album, this period gave her valuable experience in front of cameras and audiences.
Her transition into television began in Ireland, where she hosted the IRMA Music Awards for RTÉ. She also presented several popular Irish TV shows, including “The Den,” “Telly Bingo,” and “Off the Rails.” These early presenting roles helped her develop the engaging, personable style that would later make her wildlife programs so compelling.
In 2002, seeking broader opportunities, she made the significant decision to move to London, opening doors to the UK broadcasting market.
Transition to Science Broadcasting
The early 2000s marked a transitional period in her career. She presented the Channel 4 morning show “RI:SE” and became a regular presenter on the BBC’s iconic “Top of the Pops.” While these roles kept her in the entertainment sphere, something was calling her back to her scientific roots.
A turning point came when she filmed a tiger documentary in Pench National Park, India. This experience reignited her passion for wildlife conservation and prompted her decision to return to academia for her Master’s degree. It was a bold move that would completely reshape her career trajectory.
Science & Wildlife Presenting Career
Foundational Programs
From 2009 to 2014, Liz Bonnin became a household name as a presenter on “Bang Goes the Theory,” a popular BBC science magazine show that made complex scientific concepts accessible to general audiences. This program established her as a credible science communicator who could balance entertainment with education.
She also presented “Science Friction” on RTÉ One in 2008, a series that explored scientific taboos in Irish society. Other notable early programs included “Museum of Life” on BBC Two and several “Horizon” specials, including episodes on the Transit of Venus and “Tomorrow’s World.”
Wildlife & Natural History Programs
Her true calling emerged in wildlife programming, where she combined her scientific knowledge with her natural presenting abilities. In 2017, she presented “Galapagos” for BBC One, exploring the unique species on the islands and in the surrounding seas. That same year, she co-presented “Wild Alaska Live” alongside Matt Baker and Steve Backshall, bringing viewers face-to-face with Alaska’s magnificent wildlife.
Other significant wildlife programs included “Operation Snow Tiger” (2013), where she tracked Amur tigers in the Russian Far East, and “Big Blue Live” (2015), which showcased marine life in Monterey Bay, California. She also presented segments from Hawaii for “Stargazing Live” and contributed to the award-winning “Blue Planet Live” series.
Animal Behaviour & Science Series
Liz Bonnin developed a reputation for exploring the emotional and cognitive lives of animals. “Animals in Love” (BBC One, 2015) examined the emotional experiences of various species, while “Animal Odd Couples” (2013) looked at unexpected friendships in the animal kingdom.
“Super Smart Animals” (2012) investigated animal intelligence, and the “Horizon” special “Cats v Dogs: Which is Best?” (2014) tackled a question that pet lovers have debated for generations. She also presented “Should We Close Our Zoos?” for Horizon, addressing ethical questions about wildlife captivity.
Recent Major Projects
Perhaps her most impactful work came with “Drowning in Plastic” (BBC One, 2018), a documentary on marine plastic pollution that received both Royal Television Society and Grierson awards. The program significantly raised public awareness about ocean plastic and cemented her role as an environmental advocate.
“Meat: A Threat to Our Planet?” (BBC One, 2019) continued her exploration of environmental issues, examining the impact of meat production on climate change. “Penguins: Meet the Family” (2020) offered viewers an intimate look at penguin behaviour and conservation challenges.
Liz Bonnin’s Wild Caribbean (BBC Two, 2023) was a four-part series that explored Caribbean ecosystems, blending her personal connection to the region with her scientific expertise. Most recently, “Secrets of the Jurassic Dinosaurs” (BBC Two, January 2024) saw her working with palaeontologists in Wyoming, demonstrating her versatility across different scientific disciplines.
She also presents “Our Changing Planet” for BBC One, a seven-year environmental series tracking climate change impacts.
Other Series
Since 2013, she has been a co-presenter on “Countrywise” (ITV) alongside Paul Heiney and Ben Fogle, exploring rural Britain and countryside issues. She also presented “How the Earth Works” for the Discovery Channel in 2013.
Podcasts & Digital Media
Adapting to changing media landscapes, Liz Bonnin has ventured into podcasting. “What Planet Are We On” examined human impact on the environment, while “Dead River” (February 2024) documented the devastating Mariana dam disaster in Brazil, showcasing investigative environmental journalism.
Advocacy & Public Engagement
In 2020, she became the first woman elected president of The Wildlife Trusts, a significant milestone that reflected both her professional achievements and commitment to conservation. She serves as an ambassador for EDF Energy’s Pretty Curious programme, which encourages teenage girls to pursue STEM careers.
She regularly speaks at science and conservation events and has hosted prestigious programs including the National Science + Engineering Competition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards, New Scientist Live, and Blue Dot Festival.
Recognition & Impact
Today, she is regarded as one of Britain’s most prominent natural world presenters. Her work, particularly “Drowning in Plastic,” contributed significantly to raising public awareness about ocean pollution and environmental issues. She has been recognised for enhancing diversity in wildlife and environmental media, serving as a role model for women and people of diverse heritage.
With over 40 primetime programs to her name, her impact on science broadcasting is undeniable.
Personal Life: Is Liz Bonnin Married?
One of the most frequently asked questions about her is: Is Liz Bonnin married? Despite public curiosity, she has maintained privacy regarding her romantic life. There is no confirmed information about Liz Bonnin husband or whether Liz Bonnin is married.
Speculation has occasionally linked her name to colleagues, with searches for “Dallas Campbell married Liz Bonnin” and “Russ Tamblyn Liz Bonnin” appearing online. However, there is no credible evidence connecting her romantically to Dallas Campbell (her “Bang Goes the Theory” co-presenter) or actor Russ Tamblyn. Questions about “Liz Bonnin’s partner” or “is Liz Bonnin partner” remain unanswered, as she has chosen to keep this aspect of her life private.
What is known is that she maintains dual French-Irish nationality and is currently based in London. Tragically, her mother passed away in December 2020 from COVID-19, a loss she has spoken about publicly.
In 2016, she appeared on BBC’s “Who Do You Think You Are?” where she explored her Caribbean family history, providing viewers with insights into her ancestry and the cultural roots that have shaped her identity.
Net Worth & Professional Success
While specific figures are not publicly confirmed, Liz Bonnin’s net worth reflects her successful multi-decade career in broadcasting. As a presenter of over 40 primetime television programs for major networks, including BBC, ITV, and Discovery Channel, along with her role as president of The Wildlife Trusts and various speaking engagements, she has built a substantial career in science communication and wildlife advocacy.
Legacy & Continuing Work
Liz Bonnin’s legacy extends beyond her impressive television portfolio. She has played a pioneering role for women and people of diverse heritage in science broadcasting, showing that scientific credentials and compelling storytelling can go hand-in-hand. Her work continues to highlight climate change and biodiversity challenges, educating millions about conservation issues.
She remains active in conservation work and environmental activism, using her platform to advocate for the natural world. Her ability to make complex scientific topics accessible while maintaining scientific rigour has made her an invaluable voice in environmental communication.
Conclusion
From her birth in Paris to becoming one of Britain’s most respected wildlife presenters, Liz Bonnin’s journey demonstrates that passion, education, and perseverance can create extraordinary careers. Whether tracking tigers in Nepal, documenting plastic pollution in our oceans through programs like Liz Bonnin Wild Caribbean, or inspiring the next generation of scientists, she continues to make significant contributions to environmental awareness and conservation.
While questions about her personal life—is Liz Bonnin married or who is Liz Bonnin’s father—may intrigue the public, it’s her professional achievements and dedication to protecting our planet that truly define her remarkable story.
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