The TV event of the year is wrapping up, as people around the world are tuning into Discovery Channel's 27th annual Shark Week to get their fix of their favorite creature to the deep. 

Shark Week started back in 1988 to educate viewers about these majestic creatures, and show that sharks are not as big of a threat as we tend to make them out to be. Since then, Shark Week has served not only as an educational platform, but has sparked controversy and a global movement to protect these beautiful animals. 

Over the years, Shark Week has become a huge phenomenon and has gained a massive following. Celebrity hosts have included Andy Samberg, Craig Ferguson and this year's Rob Lowe. Not only are celebrities getting involved, but the viewers have turned into activists. Many have been inspired by the program to take action against animal cruelty and practices that endanger this magnificent animal. 

Recent high school graduate Gabby Bozmarova, was greatly impacted when she tuned in for the first time. She recalls, "Shark Week 2008 was the beginning of my shark obsession. Seeing the evolutionary perfection of this apex predator and then the cruelty of shark poachers made me a lifelong shark advocate." Gabby went on to start a "Shark Savers" club on her high school campus, help support legislature that outlawed the sale of shark fins in California, and continues to promote a positive image of sharks. 

Even if you missed out on the show this year, it is not too late to celebrate by educating yourself on some of the fascinating facts about these amazing animals. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about sharks:

Myth 1. Sharks hunt humans. 

Most shark attacks are an act of defense. Sharks hunt for prey that are similar size to humans like seals and dolphins. Many shark species do not even have teeth. You are more likely to be killed by a falling coconut. 

Myth 2. It is beneficial to kill sharks.

Sharks, like any other sea creature, have a valuable position in the food chain. They help maintain the balance of marine life. 

Myth 3. Sharks are at the top of the food chain and have no predators. 

We are their biggest predators. Each year thousands of sharks are killed for their fins or get caught in commercial fishing nets. 

Although Shark Week may be coming to an end, our concerns and efforts to help these animals should continue.