Ben Fogle has raised an urgent warning that “we’re all in danger of being overwhelmed” as he considers leaving the United Kingdom behind. The 52-year-old first rose to fame on the BBC reality show Castaway 2000, where 36 participants lived on a remote Scottish island, testing their ability to survive self-sufficiently in a unique social experiment.
Over the years, Ben established himself as a respected television presenter on popular shows such as Countryfile and Cash in the Attic. However, in 2023, he opened up about experiencing a “small breakdown,” triggered by the relentless “noise and chaos” of social media. For the first time, he faced feelings of anxiety and nervousness, highlighting what he describes as a growing “mental health epidemic” in the UK. Despite these challenges, Ben notes that stigma still surrounds open conversations about mental health.
Having overcome his personal struggles, Ben is returning to television with New Lives in the Wild, a series showcasing how living off-grid can provide healing for those coping with bereavement, financial hardship, or mental health issues. This inspired him to speak candidly about the damaging effects of social media. In an interview with Radio Times, he warned: “We’re all in danger of being overwhelmed with noise, materialism, and fear. Social media has become an avalanche of negativity, fuels hate, encourages constant comparison, and adds to the cacophony.”
READ MORE: Bibury Implements New Coach Parking Restrictions to Tackle Overtourism
READ MORE: Winning EuroMillions Numbers: Full National Lottery Results with Thunderball – Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Once an avid social media user, Ben now deliberately limits his online engagement, choosing instead to spend his time watching television or listening to podcasts.
He openly contemplates leaving his British lifestyle behind in pursuit of peace in an off-grid cabin—perhaps in Norway or Sweden, or even on an island in the Arctic Circle—where he can reconnect with nature. Ben imagines a serene life spent chopping firewood, braving icy morning swims, and kayaking in his Canadian canoe, while picking up new skills like painting or boat-building.
However, he acknowledges that this alternative life wouldn’t be complete without a loyal dog by his side. Ben’s beloved black Labrador, Inca, who appeared with him on Castaway 2000, sadly passed away in 2012. He has credited Inca with providing emotional support during his challenging times, writing in The Telegraph: “Without Inca, I’m not sure how well I would have fared for the whole year. She was my reason—and excuse—to explore the island… While I never set out to create a career in the media, my time in the spotlight—and the addition of a cute puppy—undeniably helped cement my name in people’s minds. We were a team.”
New Lives in the Wild returns tomorrow at 9pm on Channel 5.