Shark Whisperer: What do we know about Ocean Ramsey? Find out key details about Netflix's latest docufilm on marine activism

Shark Whisperer is a new documentary on Netflix directed by James Reed, J.P. Stiles, and Harrison Macks. It revolves around Ocean Ramsey, a free-diving marine conservationist determined to protect sharks.

The documentary tracks her fascination with these oceanic predators and the bond she has developed with them. When detailing her experience and passion, a story in Netflix’s Tudum reads:

“[Ramsey's] passion for sharks, who, she feels, are gravely misunderstood and unfairly maligned, became her life’s work. Over 100 million sharks are killed each year, imperiling the survival of a species that is integral to a balanced marine ecosystem, and critical to a healthy Earth.”

Through the documentary, Ramsey highlights their importance in sustaining a balanced marine ecosystem. She also points out how ocean activity is crucial to a healthy Earth. So, although set in the awe-inspiring underwater world, it serves as a call for urgent action to save sharks.

What is Shark Whisperer about? Here's what we know so far

Per Tudum, Shark Whisperer follows:

"The rise in notoriety of Ramsey and her partner and videographer, Juan Oliphant, as they work to garner attention for their cause on social media."

The documentary also explores her journey as a content creator and social media personality. She has reportedly been criticised for her approach to activism, which puts her at risk while gaining attention from the media. She gets candid about the scrutiny and her intent behind it all, raising important questions that offer plenty of food for thought.

During a conversation with People magazine in May 2025, she addressed this topic, saying:

"If I were just doing things for likes... I wouldn't waste time running reef and beach cleanups and cutting fishing line off of sharks. And I wouldn't waste my time getting laws passed to protect them, or educating, or writing books, or going into schools and doing presentations."

What else do we know about Ocean Ramsey?

Born in O‘ahu, Hawaii, Ocean Ramsey grew up around the ocean. This informed her understanding of the rich underwater ecosystem that breathes life into our everyday being. This formative experience led her on a path to work passionately as a marine conservationist, using her free-diving skills to help spread her knowledge.

Call it a Jaws effect or shark horror — we often see these creatures as terrifying monsters. Ramsey hopes to change that perception and shape it in a positive light. In line with this, she told People magazine:

"So, in order to allow sharks to exist, you have to teach the humans that they're not monsters. They're predators, but we need them to be predators — so all we need to do is adapt to their predatory role, behavior, and nature."

She also concludes her fascination with sharks with this note: