Matt Brown of ‘Alaskan Bush People’ Dies at 42

Matt Brown, known for his role on Discovery Channel’s “Alaskan Bush People,” has passed away at the age of 42. His brother Bear Brown confirmed Matt’s death via social media. Authorities identified his body after recovering it from a river in Washington state.

Bear shared in a TikTok video that their brother Noah positively identified Matt’s body. He expressed disbelief, stating, “I would have never suspected he would have hurt himself.” He also mentioned that Matt had struggled for a while, expressing concerns about the possibility of an overdose.

“It does look as though the injury is self-inflicted,” Bear stated, mentioning that the coroner’s examination was still pending.

According to Page Six, the Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a man in a river. The caller first saw the man sitting and later found him face down in the water. The current swept the man away. A firearm was discovered nearby.

Bear requested respect for their family’s privacy during this difficult time, especially for their mother, Ami Brown.

Matt appeared on “Alaskan Bush People” from 2014 to 2019. He left the show to address addiction issues. In a 2016 interview with People, Matt discussed his problem with alcohol and his journey to recovery.

He described his struggle with drinking, saying, “I started drinking lightly and then it got to be more and more.” He recognized his spiraling behavior and sought help. His family provided strong support during his treatment.

After completing a 35-day treatment program, Matt spoke of gaining “a new perspective on life.” He acknowledged the anxiety he felt but said his family’s support made a significant difference.

This tragedy is not the first for the Brown family. The family’s patriarch, Billy Brown, died in 2021 at the age of 68 following a seizure. “He was our best friend — a wonderful and loving dad, granddad and husband,” the family shared.

Bear mentioned that Billy Brown lived off the grid and taught his family to do the same. The family aims to honor his legacy and continue his dream while requesting privacy and prayers.