Dad Who Threw Son, 7, Off Cliff Responds to Viral Video Backlash
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In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Garrett Gee, known for his online persona as The Bucket List Family creator, addressed the criticism following a viral video where he was seen throwing his 7-year-old son off a cliff at Lake Powell. The incident, which occurred in July 2025, received a significant amount of backlash, with many questioning his parenting choices.
The video in question shows Gee standing on a towering cliff with his son, Calihan, offering words of encouragement before physically assisting him in taking a leap of faith into the water below. While some viewers were quick to condemn Gee’s actions, he emphasised that those familiar with their family’s journey would understand the context and their approach to parenting.
Gee explained, “If somebody came across that video and had only seen that video, then I agree with them. ‘Oh man, this looks terrible, and this father’s pushing their child too much.’ But anyone who has followed our journey for a longer time, they understand how thoughtful and cautious we are as parents.”
Despite the online criticism, Gee maintains that ensuring safety and comfort are paramount when engaging in adventurous activities with his children. He expressed empathy towards those who seemed confined by their comfort zones, highlighting the importance of pushing boundaries and trying new experiences to live life to the fullest.
In response to the controversy, Gee clarified that the cliff-jumping incident was not intended as parental advice and acknowledged that each child requires a tailored approach to learning and growth. He reassured the public that safety was their top priority, followed by instilling the belief that one can overcome challenges and, most importantly, having fun.
Reflecting on the public reaction, Gee remained unfazed, asserting his confidence in his parenting decisions and intentions. With over a decade of experience in sharing their family adventures online, Gee and his wife, Jessica, have built a loyal following by documenting their travels to over 100 countries, offering a glimpse into their unconventional lifestyle.
While the Bucket List Family continues to captivate audiences with their daring escapades, Gee hopes to inspire others to embrace adventure and exploration. Their upcoming book, scheduled for release later this year, promises to transport readers into the fantastical world of their family adventures, blending reality with imagination in a unique storytelling experience.
As Gee navigates the complexities of online visibility and public scrutiny, he remains committed to encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their own extraordinary journeys. Despite the occasional backlash, the Bucket List Family remains dedicated to spreading positivity and inspiring others to seek out new horizons beyond the confines of screens and devices.