Billy Billingham Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Wife, Height, Weight, Military Career, Net Worth, Family
Billy Billingham Biography
Billy Billingham is a highly decorated former SAS (Special Air Service) soldier, TV personality, and author. He gained widespread recognition as a Chief Instructor on the hit TV series SAS: Who Dares Wins, where he, along with other former special forces personnel, puts civilian and celebrity participants through intense physical and mental challenges. His military career began when he joined the Parachute Regiment in 1983 before being selected for the elite SAS in 1991, where he served for over 20 years, taking part in high-stakes operations worldwide, including Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and Africa.
Billingham has an impressive skill set that includes roles as a Counter-Terrorist Sniper Instructor, Tracking Instructor, and Mountain and Jungle Warfare Specialist, to name a few. His efforts in hostage rescues and other missions earned him notable honors, including the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery and the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), awarded by Queen Elizabeth II.
After his military service, Billy transitioned into bodyguarding for A-list celebrities like Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Tom Cruise, and Kate Moss. His ability to stay calm under pressure and his leadership qualities made him a sought-after figure in the security world.
Billy is also an accomplished author, with his book “The Hard Way: Adapt, Survive and Win” sharing valuable life lessons and insights from his time in the military. Today, he is involved in multiple television projects, including Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test in the US, and remains dedicated to charitable work alongside his wife, Julie, supporting causes like education and job training for vulnerable communities.
Billy Billingham Age
Billy Billingham was born on June 11, 1965, making him 59 years old as of 2024.
Billy Billingham Height and Weight
Billy Billingham stands at a height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm). His weight is not publicly specified, but given his military background and current fitness as a television personality, he is known for maintaining a fit and muscular physique.
Billy Billingham Hometown
Billy Billingham hails from Walsall, West Midlands, England
Billy Billingham Family Background
Billy Billingham grew up in a tough environment, which he has described as shaping his resilience and determination. Billy was one of five children, being the middle child with two older and two younger siblings. While he has shared some aspects of his upbringing, he tends to keep details about his parents private.
Tragically, one of his siblings, William Billingham, was convicted of the murder of his daughter, Mylee, which has been a very difficult part of Billy’s family history.
Billy Billingham Career
Billy Billingham, a decorated military veteran, TV personality, and author, has had a remarkable career that spans over 27 years. Known for his service in the British Special Air Service (SAS), Billy has risen to prominence both on and off the battlefield. His military background and leadership roles have earned him recognition, culminating in numerous accolades, including an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). Beyond the military, Billy’s expertise in security has made him a trusted figure in celebrity protection, as well as a respected instructor on television.
Early Military Beginnings
Billy Billingham’s career in the military began in 1983 when he joined the Parachute Regiment at the age of 17. The Parachute Regiment is an elite airborne infantry regiment known for its rigorous selection process and demanding training. Over the course of his service, Billy distinguished himself in various roles, including as a Patrol Commander, overseeing operational tours across multiple locations worldwide. His leadership and skills quickly set him apart, and in 1991, he successfully passed the notoriously difficult SAS selection, which opened a new chapter in his career.
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SAS Specialization and Expertise
In 1991, Billy joined the Special Air Service (SAS), specializing in Mountain Troop operations. His role in the SAS saw him involved in various high-profile missions, including hostage rescues, counter-terrorism operations, and other strategic assignments in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and Africa. Known for his proficiency in jungle warfare, Billy also served as a Senior Military Instructor at the British Army Jungle Warfare Training School in Brunei, where he honed his skills in the world’s most challenging environments.
Military Awards and Recognition
Throughout his time in the military, Billy was honored with numerous accolades for his bravery and service. One of the most significant honors came in the form of the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery, awarded to him for his exceptional service in high-stakes operations. Additionally, his MBE was presented by Queen Elizabeth II herself, recognizing his leadership, valor, and dedication to the UK military.
Post-Military: Bodyguard to the Stars
After his military service, Billy transitioned into a career as a bodyguard for some of the world’s most famous celebrities. He served as the head of security for high-profile figures such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Tom Cruise, Kate Moss, and Russell Crowe. This period of his career was as demanding as his military service, requiring exceptional skills in security, risk management, and discretion.
Television Career: SAS: Who Dares Wins
In 2015, Billy entered the world of television, becoming a Chief Instructor on the hit show SAS: Who Dares Wins. In this role, he put civilian and celebrity recruits through an SAS-style selection process, testing their mental and physical limits. His no-nonsense attitude and unparalleled military experience made him a fan favorite on the show.
Expanding to the US: Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test
In 2023, Billy brought his expertise across the Atlantic to the United States as a Directing Staff (DS) member on Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, which aired on FOX. The show followed a similar format to SAS: Who Dares Wins but featured American celebrities undergoing the harshest physical and mental challenges.
Author and Speaker
In addition to his work in television and security, Billy has written books that provide insight into his military experiences and life lessons. His autobiography The Hard Way details his journey from a tough upbringing in Walsall to becoming one of the most respected figures in the military. He also tours the UK and abroad, sharing his stories and inspiring audiences with his motivational talks.
Philanthropy and Charity Work
Alongside his professional pursuits, Billy and his wife, Julie Colombino-Billingham, dedicate much of their time to charitable efforts. Julie founded Deux Mains, a sustainable fashion company that provides jobs and education to people in Haiti, while Billy is actively involved in raising awareness and funds for various charitable causes. Their shared passion for giving back reflects Billy’s deep sense of responsibility to use his platform for positive change.
Billy Billingham Wife and Children
Billy Billingham is married to his wife, Julie Colombino-Billingham, a successful entrepreneur. Julie is the founder and CEO of “Deux Mains,” a socially-conscious fashion company that focuses on providing sustainable employment to artisans in Haiti. Billy often shares his admiration and love for his wife on social media, highlighting their strong relationship.
Regarding children, Billy has five kids from a previous relationship. He remains private about his family life, especially when it comes to his children, though he occasionally mentions them in interviews and social media posts.
Billy Billingham Net Worth
Billy Billingham has an estimated net worth of $3 million as of 2024.
Billy Billingham Social media presence
Billy Billingham maintains an active presence on social media, where he shares insights into his personal life, professional work, and motivational content. His platforms provide fans with updates on his appearances, charity efforts, and work with shows like SAS: Who Dares Wins. Here are his official social media handles:
- Instagram: @billingham22b
- Facebook · Mark ‘Billy’ Billingham MBE
- Twitter: @billingham229b
FAQs
Who is Billy Billingham?
Billy Billingham is a former British Special Air Service (SAS) soldier, a military leader, TV personality, author, and security consultant. He gained prominence through his work as a Chief Instructor on SAS: Who Dares Wins and as a bodyguard to Hollywood stars.
What is Billy Billingham’s military background?
Billy served for over 27 years in the British Army, joining the Parachute Regiment in 1983 before passing SAS selection in 1991. He specialized in Mountain Troop and jungle warfare, leading operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other global hotspots.
What awards has Billy Billingham received?
He has been honored with numerous military awards, including the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery and an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire), which he received for his leadership and bravery in various high-risk missions.
What is Billy Billingham’s role on SAS: Who Dares Wins?
Billy is the Chief Instructor on the British reality TV series SAS: Who Dares Wins, where he puts civilian and celebrity recruits through a grueling selection process inspired by SAS training.
What books has Billy Billingham written?
Billy has authored several books, including his autobiography The Hard Way, which details his life from growing up in Walsall, his military career, and his post-service experiences.
Who are Billy Billingham’s wife and family?
Billy is married to Julie Colombino-Billingham, the founder of Deux Mains, a sustainable fashion company supporting people in Haiti. Billy has five children from a previous relationship, but he keeps his family life relatively private.
What charities is Billy Billingham involved in?
Billy and his wife, Julie, dedicate a significant amount of their time to charitable work, particularly in Haiti, through Deux Mains and REBUILD Globally, which provides education and job training to locals after natural disasters.
What is Billy Billingham’s favorite military environment?
Billy has stated that he loves operating in the jungle, where he spent a large portion of his military career. He has worked as an instructor in the British Army Jungle Warfare Training School in Brunei and conducted missions in various jungle terrains.
