Adventure show star credits ‘encouraging’ late nan

Adventure show star Olivia Carter credits her ‘encouraging’ late nan for inspiring her remarkable rise in the world of outdoor television and exploration, in an emotional tribute ahead of the broadcast of her latest high-profile series. Carter, known for her fearless spirit and relatable on-screen personality, spoke candidly about how her grandmother’s unwavering support shaped her early ambitions — and gave her the confidence to take on some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Carter, 32, has become one of Britain’s most beloved adventure presenters through her BBC series Wild Horizons, in which she journeys to remote regions, tackles daunting natural challenges and brings back stories of resilience, culture and human curiosity. In a heartfelt interview, she revealed that much of her drive stems from her grandmother, Margaret “Maggie” Carter, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 87.

“My nan was the first person who ever told me I shouldn’t be scared of anything I want to try,” Carter said. “She used to tell me, ‘Go, see the world — it’s there to be loved.’ Every time I felt nervous or second-guessed myself early on, I’d hear her voice in my head saying, ‘You can do this.’ I wouldn’t be where I am without her.”

From Childhood Dreams to Television Stardom

Growing up in rural Somerset, Carter’s earliest memories are of walking local trails with her nan, learning to identify birds by call and navigating muddy farm paths with stubborn determination. It was during those formative walks that Carter’s love of nature and storytelling took root, fuelled by Maggie’s gentle encouragement and shared sense of adventure.

Carter’s breakthrough came in 2019 when a viral video of her kayaking through a storm-tossed Cornish cove caught a TV producer’s eye. That led to her first hosting role and, eventually, her own series, which now draws millions of viewers and critical acclaim for its blend of environmental insight, human interest and breathtaking cinematography.

Despite her success, Carter says her grandmother’s influence remains central to her life. She keeps Maggie’s worn compass — a gift from her nan before Carter’s first overseas trip — on her desk and often uses it as a talisman before filming challenging sequences.

“I still look at that compass and think of her, and somehow it steadies me,” she shared. “She always believed I could make something meaningful out of my love of the outdoors. That belief is something I carry with me every day.”

Tribute in New Series

Carter’s upcoming series, Wild Horizons: Ghosts of the Earth, includes a special episode filmed in the highlands of New Zealand, where she retraces parts of her nan’s ancestral family roots. The episode weaves personal anecdotes with broader cultural history, creating a poignant homage to family, legacy and the enduring power of encouragement.

“It felt right to honour her on screen,” Carter said. “She never got to see the show take off, but I know she would have beamed with pride at every rugged mountain and roaring waterfall.”

Producers of Wild Horizons say that Carter’s genuine connection to her story — and to the natural world — is what sets her apart in a crowded field of travel and adventure programming. Fans have responded to Carter’s authenticity, sharing stories of their own mentors and loved ones who inspired them to take leaps they otherwise might never have taken.

Fans and Industry Reactions

The series’ announcement has sparked a wave of support on social media, with fans expressing admiration for Carter’s tribute to her grandmother and for her continued commitment to exploring stories that connect humanity with the planet. Fellow presenters and broadcasters have also praised Carter’s openness in crediting her late nan — calling it a refreshing and heartfelt reminder of the people behind public figures.

“Olivia’s journey resonates because it’s rooted in real love, real loss and real inspiration,” said veteran broadcaster Hannah Reyes. “When you see her on screen, you see someone shaped by the best kind of encouragement — the kind that lasts a lifetime.”

As Wild Horizons: Ghosts of the Earth prepares to premiere next month, Carter says she hopes audiences take away both a sense of wonder and a reminder to honour the people who helped them get there. “This series is for nan,” she said, “and for every person who ever told someone they could chase their dreams.”