Bill Nye is an American science communicator and former mechanical engineer widely recognized as "Bill Nye the Science Guy." His career began as an engineer at Boeing, where he invented a component for 747 airplanes. He later transitioned to comedy and television, using his engineering background to create engaging science experiments for the show "Almost Live!" This blend of science and entertainment propelled him to become a prominent figure in science education and popular culture.
1917: Birth of Edwin Darby Nye, Bill Nye's Father
Edwin Darby "Ned" Nye, Bill Nye's father, who also served in World War II, was born in 1917.
1921: Birth of Jacqueline Jenkins, Bill Nye's Mother
Jacqueline Jenkins, Bill Nye's mother and a World War II codebreaker, was born in 1921.
November 27, 1955: Bill Nye's Birth
On November 27, 1955, William Sanford Nye, famously known as Bill Nye, was born in Washington, D.C.
1973: Bill Nye Graduates from Sidwell Friends School
Bill Nye graduated from Sidwell Friends School in 1973.
1977: Bill Nye Earns Mechanical Engineering Degree
Bill Nye graduated from Cornell University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering.
1978: Bill Nye's Comedy Debut
Bill Nye's passion for making people laugh began in 1978 when he won a Steve Martin lookalike contest, leading him to explore stand-up comedy.
October 3, 1986: Nye Takes the Leap into Comedy
On October 3, 1986, Bill Nye made the significant decision to leave his engineering job at Boeing to fully dedicate his time to his developing comedy career.
1986: Nye Joins "Almost Live!"
Bill Nye became a writer and performer on the Seattle sketch comedy show "Almost Live!" in 1986, where his science demonstrations started gaining attention.
1987: A Fateful Meeting with Carl Sagan
Bill Nye met with renowned astronomer Carl Sagan at Cornell University in 1987, receiving invaluable advice that shaped the trajectory of his science communication career.
1988: Nye Takes to the Airwaves
Bill Nye furthered his science communication efforts in 1988 by hosting a weekly radio show on KJR, answering listeners' questions about science.
1989: "Fabulous Wetlands" Marks a Turning Point
In 1989, Bill Nye hosted "Fabulous Wetlands," a short educational program that foreshadowed the style and approach of his later, more widely known show.
1991: Nye Joins "Back to the Future: The Animated Series"
Bill Nye joined the cast of "Back to the Future: The Animated Series" in 1991, appearing in live-action educational segments alongside Christopher Lloyd.
1992: Nye Engages in Community Service
Bill Nye served on the Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board from 1992 to 1994.
1993: Nye's Time on "Back to the Future" Concludes
Bill Nye concluded his run on "Back to the Future: The Animated Series" in 1993.
1993: "Bill Nye the Science Guy" Premieres
Bill Nye the Science Guy, a show that aimed to make science entertaining and accessible for younger viewers, premiered in 1993. The show was recorded in Nye Labs, a converted clothing warehouse in Seattle.
1993: "Bill Nye the Science Guy" Premieres
Bill Nye's educational television show, "Bill Nye the Science Guy," premiered in 1993, captivating audiences with its unique blend of science and entertainment.
1993: The Genesis of "Bill Nye the Science Guy"
The pilot episode for "Bill Nye the Science Guy" was developed in 1993, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking science education program.
1994: Nye Concludes Service on Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board
Bill Nye concluded his service on the Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board in 1994.
1996: "Bill Nye the Science Guy: Stop the Rock!" and Disney Collaborations
In 1996, a CD-ROM based on the Bill Nye the Science Guy series, titled "Bill Nye the Science Guy: Stop the Rock!", was released. Nye's Science Guy persona also became prominent in various Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, including an appearance in Ellen's Energy Adventure at Epcot.
1997: Death of Edwin Darby Nye, Bill Nye's Father
Edwin Darby "Ned" Nye, Bill Nye's father, passed away in 1997.
1997: Candle in the Dark Award
In 1997, Bill Nye was given the Candle in the Dark Award by the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry (CSICOP) for his efforts to popularize science.
1998: End of an Era: "Bill Nye the Science Guy" Concludes Syndication
In 1998, "Bill Nye the Science Guy" concluded its run in national television syndication, marking the end of an era for the beloved science education program.
1998: "Bill Nye the Science Guy" Ends its Run
After a successful five-year run, Bill Nye the Science Guy aired its final episode in 1998. Despite its target audience of younger viewers, the show garnered a significant adult audience and was lauded for its ability to make science engaging and accessible.
May 1999: Commencement Speaker and Honorary Doctorate from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
In May 1999, Bill Nye was the commencement speaker at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree.
1999: "Bill Nye the Science Guy" Concludes
After an impactful run, "Bill Nye the Science Guy" concluded in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of making science engaging for viewers of all ages.
1999: Nye Becomes Spokesperson for Noggin
In 1999, Bill Nye served as the on-air spokesperson for the children's television network Noggin, further solidifying his presence in educational programming.
2000: Nye Joins "BattleBots"
Bill Nye became the technical expert on the robot combat show "BattleBots" in 2000, showcasing his engineering knowledge.
2000: Death of Jacqueline Jenkins, Bill Nye's Mother
Jacqueline Jenkins, Bill Nye's mother, passed away in 2000.
2001: Frank H. T. Rhodes Class of '56 University Professor at Cornell University
From 2001 to 2006, Bill Nye held the esteemed position of Frank H. T. Rhodes Class of '56 University Professor at Cornell University.
2002: Nye's "BattleBots" Run Ends
After two years, Bill Nye's time as the technical expert on "BattleBots" concluded in 2002.
2004: Nye Hosts "100 Greatest Discoveries"
Bill Nye hosted "100 Greatest Discoveries," an award-winning series for the Science Channel, in 2004, highlighting groundbreaking scientific achievements throughout history.
2005: "The Eyes of Nye" Premieres
In 2005, "The Eyes of Nye," Bill Nye's comeback project aimed at an older audience premiered. The show aimed to tackle more controversial scientific topics but faced budgetary issues and creative differences. It was eventually picked up by American Public Television after being rejected by PBS and lasted for only one season.
2005: Vice President of The Planetary Society
Bill Nye dedicated himself to space science advocacy as the Vice President of The Planetary Society from 2005 to 2010.
2005: "100 Greatest Discoveries" Continues
Bill Nye continued to host "100 Greatest Discoveries" in 2005, further solidifying his role as a prominent science communicator.
February 3, 2006: Marriage to Blair Tindall
Bill Nye married musician Blair Tindall on February 3, 2006.
2006: End of Tenure as Frank H. T. Rhodes Class of '56 University Professor
Bill Nye's tenure as the Frank H. T. Rhodes Class of '56 University Professor at Cornell University came to an end in 2006.
October 28, 2007: Nye Appears on "America's Most Smartest Model"
On October 28, 2007, Bill Nye made a guest appearance on the VH1 reality show "America's Most Smartest Model," bringing his scientific knowledge and humor to the program.
2007: Restraining Order and Lawsuit Against Tindall
Bill Nye obtained a restraining order against Blair Tindall in 2007 following their separation, alleging harassment and property damage. Nye later sued Tindall for attorney's fees related to the violation of the protective order.
2007: Nye Hosts "Greatest Inventions with Bill Nye"
In 2007, Bill Nye hosted "Greatest Inventions with Bill Nye," an eight-part series for the Discovery Channel, exploring the impact of groundbreaking inventions on society.
May 2008: Honorary Doctorate from Johns Hopkins University
Bill Nye received an honorary doctorate from Johns Hopkins University in May 2008.
November 2008: Nye Appears on "Stargate Atlantis"
In November 2008, Bill Nye made a guest appearance as himself on the science fiction series "Stargate Atlantis" in the episode "Brain Storm," appearing alongside fellow scientist and television personality Neil deGrasse Tyson.
2008: Nye Appears on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire"
Throughout 2008, Bill Nye participated in the daytime game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" as part of its "Ask the Expert" feature, offering his scientific expertise to contestants.
October 2009: Nye Advocates for Clean Energy
In October 2009, Bill Nye demonstrated his commitment to combating climate change by creating a YouTube video advocating for clean energy legislation as part of Al Gore's Repower America campaign.
September 2010: Executive Director of The Planetary Society
Bill Nye assumed the role of Executive Director at The Planetary Society in September 2010, succeeding Louis Friedman.
November 2010: "Bill Nye's Climate Lab" Exhibition
The Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland, California, unveiled "Bill Nye's Climate Lab" in November 2010, a major science exhibition raising awareness about climate change.
2010: Humanist of the Year Award
Bill Nye received the Humanist of the Year Award from the American Humanist Association in 2010.
May 2011: Honorary Doctorate from Willamette University
Bill Nye received an honorary doctorate from Willamette University in May 2011.
August 27, 2011: Public Lecture and Presentation at Cornell University
On August 27, 2011, Bill Nye delivered a captivating public lecture at his alma mater, Cornell University, where he shared his insights on sundials, his career, and presented the university with the Bill Nye Solar Noon Clock.
July 2012: Support for Barack Obama's Reelection
Bill Nye publicly expressed his support for President Barack Obama's reelection bid in July 2012.
September 2012: Nye's Stance on Creationism
Bill Nye voiced his concerns in September 2012, asserting that creationist viewpoints posed a threat to science education and innovation in the United States.
November 2012: Kickstarter Campaign for "AERO 3D"
In November 2012, Bill Nye launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund an educational aerodynamics game called "AERO 3D," although the campaign did not reach its funding goal.
2012: Q&A Session on Mars Rover Landing
Following the 2012 Mars Rover landing, Bill Nye engaged the public in a Q&A session, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for space exploration.
May 20, 2013: Honorary Doctorate of Pedagogy from Lehigh University
On May 20, 2013, Bill Nye received an honorary Doctor of Pedagogy degree from Lehigh University during their commencement ceremony.
2013: Nye Guest Stars on "The Big Bang Theory"
Bill Nye guest-starred in "The Proton Displacement," an episode of the popular sitcom "The Big Bang Theory," in 2013. In the episode, he plays himself and interacts with the show's scientifically-inclined characters.
2013: Nye Competes on "Dancing with the Stars"
Bill Nye joined the cast of the popular dance competition show "Dancing with the Stars" in 2013. Despite his enthusiasm, he was eliminated early in the season due to a quadriceps tendon injury.
2013: Advisory Council Member of the National Center for Science Education
Since 2013, Bill Nye has contributed his expertise as a member of the Advisory Council for the National Center for Science Education.
February 2014: Debate with Ken Ham
Bill Nye engaged in a high-profile debate with creationist Ken Ham at the Creation Museum in February 2014, centering on the validity of creationism as a scientific model.
February 28, 2014: Nye Attends White House Student Film Festival
On February 28, 2014, Bill Nye appeared as a celebrity guest and interviewer at the White House Student Film Festival, emphasizing the importance of science education and filmmaking.
2014: "Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation" Released
Bill Nye released his first best-selling book, "Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation," in 2014, solidifying his role as a prominent science communicator.
March 2015: Nye's Shift in Stance on GMOs
Bill Nye publicly announced his revised stance on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in March 2015, expressing his support for the technology.
May 2015: Honorary Doctorate and Commencement Speaker at Rutgers University
In May 2015, Rutgers University awarded Bill Nye an honorary Doctor of Science degree and he was paid $35,000 to be the keynote speaker at the commencement ceremony.
October 2015: Honorary Doctorate of Science from Simon Fraser University
In October 2015, Bill Nye received an honorary doctorate of science from Simon Fraser University.
2015: "Unstoppable: Harnessing Science to Change the World" Released
In 2015, Bill Nye released his second best-selling book, "Unstoppable: Harnessing Science to Change the World," further contributing to the public understanding of science.
2015: Meeting with President Obama on Climate Change
On Earth Day in 2015, Bill Nye met with President Barack Obama at Everglades National Park to discuss the pressing issues of climate change and the importance of science education.
July 2016: Visit to Ark Encounter and Informal Debate
In July 2016, Bill Nye visited the Ark Encounter, a creationist theme park, and engaged in an informal debate with Ken Ham during a tour of the facility.
August 31, 2016: Netflix Announces "Bill Nye Saves the World"
Netflix announced a new science show hosted by Bill Nye titled "Bill Nye Saves the World" on August 31, 2016.
2016: Nye Appears in "Food Evolution"
Bill Nye appeared in the 2016 documentary "Food Evolution," a film directed by Scott Hamilton Kennedy and narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson that explored the debate surrounding genetically modified food.
March 2017: "Bill Nye: Science Guy" Premieres at SXSW
The documentary "Bill Nye: Science Guy," chronicling Nye's life and advocacy, premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March 2017.
April 21, 2017: "Bill Nye Saves the World" Premieres
Bill Nye returned to television with "Bill Nye Saves the World," a Netflix series that premiered on April 21, 2017, exploring scientific issues and their global impact.
April 22, 2017: Nye Co-Chairs March for Science
Demonstrating his dedication to scientific advocacy, Bill Nye served as the honorary co-chair of the inaugural March for Science on April 22, 2017, a rally advocating for evidence-based policymaking and the importance of scientific research.
July 2017: Nye's Statement on Climate Change Deniers
Bill Nye sparked debate with his statement in July 2017, suggesting that the issue of climate change denial would resolve itself as older generations, who tend to hold those views, pass away.
October 2017: "Bill Nye: Science Guy" Named NYT Critic's Pick
In October 2017, the documentary "Bill Nye: Science Guy" received critical acclaim, being named a New York Times Critic's Pick.
2017: Release of Documentary "Bill Nye: Science Guy"
Footage of Bill Nye's visit to the Ark Encounter and his interactions with Ken Ham was featured in the documentary "Bill Nye: Science Guy," released in 2017.
2017: Disclosure of Family History of Ataxia
In the 2017 PBS documentary "Bill Nye: Science Guy," Nye opened up about his family's history of ataxia, a neurological disorder, and his decision not to have children to avoid passing on the condition.
2017: End of Ellen's Energy Adventure
Ellen's Energy Adventure, a popular attraction at Epcot featuring Bill Nye, concluded its run in 2017 after entertaining visitors for over two decades.
May 11, 2018: Final Season of "Bill Nye Saves the World" Released
The third and final season of "Bill Nye Saves the World" was released on May 11, 2018, marking the end of Nye's science advocacy on the streaming platform.
July 2018: MLB All-Star Legends and Celebrity Softball Game
In July 2018, Bill Nye participated in the MLB All-Star Legends and Celebrity Softball Game, representing the National League team. He hit a single in the bottom of the third inning.
2018: Attendance at the State of the Union Address
Bill Nye attended the 2018 State of the Union Address as a guest of Oklahoma Congressman Jim Bridenstine, sparking discussions due to Bridenstine's stance on climate change.
2018: "Bill Nye Saves the World" Concludes
Bill Nye's Netflix series, "Bill Nye Saves the World," which ran for three seasons, concluded in 2018.
2018: Nye Makes Cameos in "Blindspot" and "The Big Bang Theory"
Throughout 2018, Bill Nye continued to make appearances in popular television shows. He guest-starred in an episode of the action thriller "Blindspot" and made a second guest appearance on "The Big Bang Theory," sharing the screen with Neil deGrasse Tyson.
May 12, 2019: Appearance on "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver"
On May 12, 2019, Bill Nye appeared on "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" where he addressed climate change and shared his perspectives on the proposed Green New Deal.
August 21, 2019: Endorsement of Jay Inslee
Bill Nye initially endorsed Jay Inslee during the 2020 Democratic primaries, but his support ended when Inslee suspended his campaign on August 21, 2019.
September 2019: Collaboration with Steve Aoki
Bill Nye lent his vocals to "Noble Gas," the closing track of electronic music producer Steve Aoki's album "Neon Future III," in September 2019.
September 2019: Guest Appearance on "Getting Curious" Podcast
In September 2019, Bill Nye appeared as a guest on Jonathan Van Ness's podcast, "Getting Curious," engaging in a discussion about climate change, energy sources, and environmental concerns.
October 28, 2020: Endorsement of Joe Biden
Taking to Twitter, Bill Nye publicly endorsed Joe Biden for president on October 28, 2020, urging his followers to prioritize climate change and science when casting their votes.
2020: Voice Acting Roles
Bill Nye took on voice acting roles in 2020, lending his voice to the animated film "Happy Halloween, Scooby-Doo!" and portraying Upton Sinclair in the biopic "Mank."
March 2021: Peacock Orders "The End is Nye"
In March 2021, Peacock announced "The End Is Nye," a new series where Bill Nye, alongside Seth MacFarlane and Brannon Braga, would explore various potential global disasters, examining scientific explanations and survival strategies.
August 25, 2022: Premiere of "The End Is Nye"
On August 25, 2022, Bill Nye's new series, "The End Is Nye," premiered on Peacock and Syfy, exploring various apocalyptic scenarios and the science behind preventing them.
2022: Marriage to Liza Mundy
Bill Nye married journalist Liza Mundy in 2022.
2024: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
In 2024, Bill Nye was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
2024: Appearance in "Smiling Friends"
In 2024, Bill Nye was caricatured in an episode of the adult animation series "Smiling Friends." Voiced by Marc M., Nye's character comically addressed the fear of death.