By this past summer, Man vs. Wild was a bona fide phenomenon. Grylls made appearances on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Oprah; both hosts needled him about his willingness to eat just about anything—and even wash it down with his own urine.

Grylls: I never thought that people would focus so much on the things I eat. People focus on different things in different countries. In the UK they focus on my climbs, and in the Far East people are fascinated by the animal encounters. Maybe in America it's more Man vs. Gag Reflex. But hey!

Doug Ritter, executive director, Equipped to Survive Foundation: The main thing I have a problem with is providing information that is completely wrong, like showing Bear drinking his own urine. The only time it is safe to drink your own urine is if it is completely clear.

Conan O'Brien, to Grylls on Late Night: How mad does the chef get at a restaurant when you send food back?