Matt Brown, known for his role on Discovery Channel’s Alaskan Bush People, has died at the age of 42. His brother, Bear Brown, confirmed the news on social media after authorities recovered a body from a river in Washington state.
Details of His Passing
Bear Brown said in a TikTok video that the body, positively identified by their brother Noah, was found earlier Saturday. “It does look as though the injury is self-inflicted,” Bear said, noting that the coroner is still investigating. He also asked fans to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time, particularly for their mother, Ami Brown.
According to Page Six, deputies from the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office responded Wednesday after a witness reported seeing a man sitting in a shallow section of the river. The witness later found the man face down in the water before he was swept away by the current. A firearm was reportedly recovered near the scene.
Career and Personal Struggles
Matt appeared on Alaskan Bush People from 2014 to 2019 before stepping away to focus on personal challenges, including struggles with addiction. In a 2016 interview with People, he spoke openly about his drinking and anxiety, saying, “I could see myself spiraling. I started drinking lightly and then it got to be more and more.”
After completing 35 days of treatment, he reflected on his recovery, stating, “I learned a lot about myself in those 35 days. I’ve turned my weakness into a strength. In life, we all get lost every now and then and have to find our way back.”
Family Losses and Legacy
The Brown family has experienced other tragedies in recent years. Their patriarch, Billy Brown, died in 2021 at age 68 after suffering a seizure. Bear Brown described Billy as “our best friend — a wonderful and loving dad, granddad, and husband” and encouraged the family to honor his legacy.
