Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant Redefines Wildlife Storytelling and Inspires a New Generation
Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild has found renewed success, and at the heart of its revival is Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, a wildlife ecologist who is breaking barriers and reshaping representation in the field of conservation.
The return of the beloved nature series to NBC saw Wynn-Grant continuing her role as co-host, bringing a fresh perspective alongside veteran naturalist Peter Gros. The Emmy-nominated program now blends conservation, education, and adventure, and Wynn-Grant’s presence is a powerful symbol of progress.
As the first Black woman to host an original wildlife series, Wynn-Grant is acutely aware of the significance of her visibility. “I really want to make sure that not only do people see, especially young Black folks, that they belong here,” she explained. “I want them to see me speak authentically, act authentically, and represent my community authentically without any kind of reservations.” This commitment to authentic representation marks a crucial shift in who gets to narrate stories about the natural world and, crucially, who feels welcome within it.
Currently in its third season, Protecting the Wild consistently ranks as the #1 weekend wildlife show on television. The series distinguishes itself through its cinematic approach, global expeditions, and dedication to environmental education, showcasing conservation initiatives from Madagascar’s rainforests to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. For Wynn-Grant, the show has also been a catalyst for her own professional growth. “What I realized when I started filming was that all my experiences had happened with land animals—bears, lions, mountain lions, wolves,” she said. “This show has pushed me out of my comfort zone into the ocean.” An upcoming episode features Wynn-Grant snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, an experience she described as “terrifying but exhilarating… like being on another planet.”
The dynamic between Wynn-Grant and Gros is a key component of the show’s appeal. “Peter is probably now my best friend,” Wynn-Grant shared warmly. “We are a very unlikely pair—we come from different generations and different backgrounds—but we enjoy and support each other. He’s incredibly knowledgeable, and I’ve learned so much from him.” This mutual respect embodies the show’s core message: a celebration of the delicate balance between human curiosity and ecological responsibility.
Beyond her television work, Wynn-Grant is a respected researcher, a National Geographic Society Fellow, and the host of the PBS podcast Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. Her memoir, Wild Life: Finding My Purpose in an Untamed World, details her journey from an urban upbringing to a life dedicated to the wilderness, exploring the interplay of identity, ambition, and resilience. She also balances her demanding career with the joys and challenges of motherhood. “I don’t know that I’m doing it right, but I’m doing it,” she laughed. “There hasn’t ever been a year where I haven’t traveled into the wilderness. But one thing that makes me very proud is that my kids sit down on Saturday mornings and watch the show.”
Wynn-Grant hopes Protecting the Wild will inspire viewers not only to appreciate the beauty of nature but also to recognize their own capacity for positive change. “We always try to do conservation success stories,” she said, “but we also explore the complicated ones. The success lies in what everyday people can do to support these causes. I believe a lot of the stories are very empowering for viewers to feel like they can actually play a role in helping.”
As Wynn-Grant approaches her 40th birthday, she is embracing this moment as a significant milestone, both personally and professionally. After years dedicated to studying wildlife and advocating for conservation around the globe, she is allowing herself a rare opportunity for reflection.
“Honestly, I just want to be home with my family,” she said with a smile. “I spend so much of my life shouting from the rooftops about the importance of nature and biodiversity. A gift to myself is having a quiet moment. Just being still.”
