Josh Gates, the charismatic television presenter, explorer, and producer, is known for taking viewers on exhilarating adventures through series like Expedition Unknown and Destination Truth. While fans around the world are fascinated by his globe-trotting lifestyle, many are curious about the more personal side of his life — particularly about his daughter, Isla Amelia Gates.
In this comprehensive article, we dive into everything known (and recently discovered) about Isla Amelia Gates, offering rare insight into the private life of one of America’s favorite adventurers. This includes her early life, family background, and the impact of being raised by a world-famous father.
Quick Bio of Isla Amelia Gates
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Isla Amelia Gates |
| Date of Birth | February 2018 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 7 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Josh Gates (father), Hallie Gnatovich (mother) |
| Father’s Occupation | Television Host, Producer, Explorer |
| Mother’s Occupation | Therapist, Former TV Host |
| Known For | Being the daughter of Josh Gates |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Current Residence | Likely lives with her mother (post-divorce) |
| Public Appearances | Rare and minimal |
| Education | Early elementary school (private, undisclosed) |
Introduction: The Private Side of Josh Gates
Josh Gates is not only an adventurer but also a father. Known for his thrilling journeys through ancient ruins, haunted locations, and lost civilizations, Josh’s life off-screen has remained relatively private. His daughter, Isla Amelia Gates, is seldom in the limelight, but she holds a significant place in his life. Fans who have followed his journey are increasingly curious about his family, especially his daughter.
Early Life and Background of Isla Amelia Gates
Isla Amelia Gates was born in February 2018, during the height of Josh Gates’ television career. At the time, Josh was actively hosting Expedition Unknown, a show that had him frequently traveling across the world. Despite his hectic schedule, he often spoke lovingly about his daughter in interviews, giving audiences a small peek into his life as a father.
Her birth was announced in a subtle and heartfelt manner, with Josh expressing the joy of becoming a dad. It was a turning point in his personal life, and one that added new depth to his personality both on and off screen.
Who Is Josh Gates – The Famous Father
Josh Gates was born on August 10, 1977, in Massachusetts. He is best known as the host of Expedition Unknown and Destination Truth, and is also a producer, author, and real-life adventurer. With a background in archaeology and theater, Josh brings a unique blend of humor, intelligence, and curiosity to his on-screen persona.
Josh married Hallie Gnatovich in 2014, whom he met during the filming of Destination Truth. The couple welcomed Isla in 2018, but later publicly announced their divorce in 2021. Despite their separation, both Josh and Hallie remain dedicated parents.
Isla’s Relationship with Her Parents
Although Josh Gates and Hallie Gnatovich are no longer together, they have both spoken about co-parenting with mutual respect. Hallie, a licensed therapist, now lives a quieter life and prioritizes raising Isla in a stable, nurturing environment.
Josh, on the other hand, juggles his filming schedule while maintaining his responsibilities as a father. In interviews and social media posts, he occasionally shares sweet anecdotes about Isla, revealing his deep affection for her.
Rare Public Mentions and Appearances
Unlike many celebrity children, Isla Amelia Gates is rarely photographed or brought into the public eye. This is largely due to her parents’ choice to keep her life private. Josh has mentioned in various interviews that he prefers to shield his daughter from the spotlight so she can grow up away from the pressures of fame.
However, fans have occasionally heard about her through small, personal stories that Josh shares — such as Isla’s fascination with dinosaurs or her funny observations about his travel gear.
Isla’s Name and Its Unique Meaning
The name “Isla” (pronounced Eye-la) has Scottish origins and means “island.” It’s a name that resonates with nature — quite fitting for the daughter of an adventurer who has explored islands and continents across the globe.
“Amelia” is a classic name of Latin-German origin meaning “work” or “industrious.” Together, the name symbolizes curiosity, exploration, and strength — perhaps unintentionally echoing the spirit of both her parents.
Life After Josh and Hallie’s Divorce
The public announcement of Josh and Hallie’s divorce in 2021 came as a surprise to many fans. Hallie shared the news via her social media, stating they had been separated for over a year before finalizing the divorce.
While the details remain private, what’s clear is that their focus remains on co-parenting Isla. Hallie has since left the television industry to focus more on her therapy practice and motherhood.
Education and Early Interests
Isla is currently attending elementary school, though the name and location of her school are understandably kept private. Given her age, she is likely in the first or second grade as of 2025.
In rare mentions, Josh has indicated that Isla has a deep love for animals, science, and storytelling — perhaps following in the footsteps of her father’s curiosity and sense of wonder. She also reportedly enjoys puzzles and animated films.
Does Isla Travel with Josh?
Although Josh Gates is frequently on the move for filming, he has mentioned that when he is not working, he prioritizes spending time with Isla. However, due to the intense and often unpredictable nature of his travel, Isla does not accompany him on expeditions.
Instead, Josh ensures they have meaningful time together at home, and sometimes shares thoughtful gifts and souvenirs from his travels — sparking her imagination and love for the world.
Isla’s Relationship with Josh’s Fans
Josh Gates has a strong fan base, and while most are respectful of his family’s privacy, there is a growing curiosity about Isla. Fans have praised Josh for being a devoted father, often admiring how he balances parenthood with a demanding career.
On rare occasions, Josh shares father-daughter moments (without showing Isla’s face), which are met with warmth and support from fans who appreciate his grounded approach to fame and parenting.
Isla’s Life Away from the Cameras
Both Josh and Hallie have made it a point to raise Isla away from the public eye. This is a rare approach in today’s social media-heavy world, especially for the child of a public figure.
Isla does not appear on public social media accounts, and there are no known interviews or appearances featuring her. This is a conscious choice made by her parents to preserve her privacy during her formative years.
What the Future Holds for Isla Amelia Gates
It’s too early to say whether Isla will follow in the footsteps of her father or choose her own path entirely. What’s clear is that she is being raised in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment — with parents who value exploration, education, and emotional well-being.
Whether she becomes a scientist, artist, explorer, or therapist like her mother, Isla Amelia Gates seems destined for a life of purpose and creativity.
Final Thoughts
While many celebrity children grow up in the public eye, Isla Amelia Gates is being raised with care, attention, and intentional privacy. Her father, Josh Gates, may be known for solving mysteries and chasing legends, but his most meaningful adventure appears to be fatherhood.
By respecting her space and letting her grow up without pressure, Josh and Hallie are setting a strong example for parenting in the public eye. For fans, Isla remains a fascinating figure — not because of what she does in public, but because of the love and values that surround her.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Isla Amelia Gates
1. Who is Isla Amelia Gates?
Isla Amelia Gates is the daughter of TV host and explorer Josh Gates and therapist Hallie Gnatovich. Born in February 2018, she has been raised mostly out of the public eye. Despite her father’s fame, Isla’s parents have chosen a quiet, private upbringing for her. She is known among fans of Josh Gates as a cherished part of his personal life, occasionally mentioned in stories and interviews.
2. What does Josh Gates say about his daughter?
Josh Gates often shares heartfelt and humorous stories about his daughter Isla in interviews. He has spoken about how fatherhood has changed his perspective and made him more grounded. While he doesn’t share photos or details often, he respects her privacy and enjoys spending quality time with her when he’s not filming.
3. Does Isla appear on any of Josh Gates’ shows?
No, Isla Amelia Gates does not appear on Expedition Unknown or any other shows hosted by her father. Josh and Hallie have made a conscious decision to keep her out of the public eye and away from cameras, choosing to protect her identity and allow her a normal childhood.
4. What is known about Isla’s early life and education?
Born in the U.S. in early 2018, Isla is now seven years old and attending elementary school. While the specifics of her education are private, it’s believed she attends a private or specialized school. She has interests in animals, science, and imaginative play — topics that her father nurtures through storytelling and souvenirs from his travels.
5. Where does Isla Amelia Gates live now?
After Josh Gates and Hallie Gnatovich finalized their divorce, it is believed Isla primarily lives with her mother, Hallie, in the United States. However, Josh remains an active co-parent. Both parents continue to prioritize Isla’s well-being and education, and the family reportedly shares a respectful and supportive co-parenting arrangement.
