Matt Brown, known for his role on the reality series Alaskan Bush People, has passed away at the age of 43. The show, which aired from 2014 to 2019, documented the life of the Brown family, who lived off the grid in the Alaskan wilderness. Matt was the eldest child of patriarch Billy Brown and his wife Ami, and he appeared in the first eight seasons.
The news of his death was shared by his brother, Solomon Isaiah "Bear" Brown, via Instagram. Bear indicated that the family had identified Matt's body and that he likely died by suicide. "Obviously, the coroner still has to look at him and stuff, but I thought that y'all guys should know that it is him," Bear added.
Family Tragedies
This loss comes five years after the death of the family's patriarch, Billy Brown, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 68 following a seizure. At the time, Bear announced the news on Instagram, writing, "We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved patriarch Billy Brown passed away last night after suffering from a seizure." He described Billy as "our best friend – a wonderful and loving dad, granddad and husband."
Billy Brown lived his life on his terms, off the grid and off the land, and taught his family to do the same. Bear expressed the family's intention to honor Billy's legacy and continue his dream, requesting privacy and prayers during the painful time.
Discovery Channel's Response
A spokesperson for Discovery Channel, which aired Alaskan Bush People, expressed devastation at Billy Brown's sudden passing in 2021, calling him "a trailblazer, a lovely man and most definitely one of a kind." The network extended its condolences to the Brown family.
If you or someone you know is experiencing feelings of distress or struggling to cope, help is available. In the UK and ROI, the Samaritans can be reached confidentially at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org. In the USA, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a free, confidential service available 24/7. For other countries, visit www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
