Fabien Cousteau

As the grandson of the legendary Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Fabien Cousteau’s journey into the world of ocean exploration began at an early age. Growing up aboard his grandfather’s iconic ships, Calypso and Alcyone, he learned to scuba dive on his fourth birthday.

Known for his pioneering work in marine biology, particularly his research on sharks, Fabien Cousteau’s influence extends beyond the scientific community. From 2000 to 2002, he served as an Explorer-at-Large for National Geographic, working on the groundbreaking TV special Attack of the Mystery Shark, which aimed to reshape public perceptions of these often-misunderstood creatures. In 2003-2006, Cousteau produced the documentary Mind of a Demon, which aired on CBS, capturing the unique complexities of sharks in stunning detail. A true innovator, Cousteau worked with a large crew to create a 14-foot, 1,200-pound lifelike shark submarine, Troy.

From 2006 to 2010, Cousteau collaborated with his father, Jean-Michel Cousteau, and sister, Céline, on the PBS series Ocean Adventures. Over the years, he has also served on various charitable boards, working with local communities and children around the globe to restore vital water ecosystems. In June 2014, Cousteau embarked on the historic Mission 31, the longest science expedition at Aquarius, the world’s only underwater marine laboratory, located off the coast of Florida. This groundbreaking mission honoured the 50th anniversary of his grandfather’s original underwater living experiment (Conshelf Two) while pushing the boundaries of ocean exploration. Cousteau’s team broadcasted the mission live, allowing the world to experience the adventure and drama of life beneath the waves.

In 2016, Cousteau founded the Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center (OLC), fulfilling his lifelong dream of creating a platform for ocean education and conservation. Through OLC, Cousteau continues to champion the health of our oceans and the next generation of environmental stewards. Today, Cousteau dedicates much of his time to the OLC’s programs and initiatives while also making frequent appearances on network television, including the Oprah Winfrey Show, NBC’s Today Show, Gayle King, and other major outlets like ABC, CNN, MSNBC, and France 2.