Gordon Buchanan MBE, acclaimed wildlife cinematographer and presenter, has spent over 30 years working in some of the world’s most extreme and isolated environments. Known for filming polar bears in the Arctic and leopards in Mumbai, Gordon has spent a lifetime in some of the most remote and extreme corners of the earth. But behind the celebrated documentaries and breathtaking footage lies a more human story, one of his decades-long struggle with mental health and depression.
Gordon steps out from behind the camera to speak candidly about emotional endurance, long-term mental health struggles, and the quiet toll of pushing through in silence.
Drawing on his Sunday Times bestselling memoir In the Hide: How the Natural World Saved My Life, Gordon reflects on his story not only about wildlife and wilderness, but also about emotional survival, resilience, and the often hidden weight of mental health challenges.
Gordon’s early life was marked by instability, a violent stepfather, and emotional turbulence, which created a sense of inferiority and a constant need to be on alert. These early experiences pushed him outdoors, where nature became his escape and later, his career.
What once served as survival, hyper-vigilance later became a tool that helped define his success as a wildlife filmmaker. His ability to quietly observe and anticipate animal behaviour has led to some of the most compelling footage in natural history television. While spending 30 nights alone in a hide might seem unbearable to many, these small, enclosed shelters became Gordon’s sanctuary. Immersed in nature, he found a connection to something greater, allowing him to escape daily worries and switch off his restless mind and exist in the moment.
But behind the success and adventure of his global career, Gordon was quietly battling depression, something he didn’t fully recognise until his 40s. He often felt overwhelmed, anxious, and emotionally drained, attributing it to stress rather than acknowledging a deeper struggle.
Today, he openly shares his journey toward understanding and managing his mental health through routine, nature, exercise, and family support.
Gordon’s talk offers powerful insights into resilience, the healing power of nature, and the importance of openness around mental health especially in men. His honesty provides a rare and needed voice, encouraging audiences to find their own place of refuge and renewal amid a hectic world. Gordon’s deeply personal story inspires and reminds us that behind every success story is a journey we rarely see.
He is a spellbinding storyteller who can captivate an audience with his fund of wild and wonderful tales about the natural world, while at the same time educating and informing on topical issues.
Outside of presenting, Gordon has contributed to numerous award-winning BBC, Discovery, and National geographic wildlife programmes and documentaries, resulting in an Honorary Doctorate from The University of Stirling in recognition of his outstanding services to conservation and wildlife filmmaking.