Matt Brown, a reality television personality known for his appearances on the Discovery Channel series 'Alaskan Bush People,' has died at the age of 43. His brother Bear Brown confirmed the death in a TikTok post on Friday, May 30, 2026, revealing that Matt took his own life.
In the emotional video message, Bear Brown appeared visibly shaken as he shared the tragic news with followers. He asked viewers to be respectful and refrain from leaving negative comments as the family processes the loss.
According to dispatch audio obtained by TMZ, search and rescue personnel discovered Brown's backpack during the initial search operation. Responders noted that his firearm was believed to be in the water, while his body was not located with the backpack. Authorities deployed a search boat and dive team to assist in the recovery effort.
The tragedy follows a concerning incident earlier in May when Brown live-streamed himself on YouTube. During the broadcast, he appeared disoriented and wandered through a town in Washington state. The disturbing video showed him appearing nude and possibly intoxicated, at one point holding what appeared to be a firearm.
Family sources told TMZ that most of Brown's relatives had ceased contact with him approximately five years ago due to his ongoing struggles with addiction. Only his brother Gabe Brown maintained occasional communication with him, though their conversations were reportedly infrequent.
Despite the family estrangement, relatives expressed concern when Brown went missing. Bear Brown shared a video mentioning that witnesses had seen Matt near a river and observed him floating in the water at one point.
'Alaskan Bush People' premiered in 2014 and chronicles a family living off the grid in Alaska's wilderness. The show follows their daily lives in a remote community they call 'Browntown,' though critics have questioned the authenticity of the family's lifestyle portrayal.
Matt Brown appeared in 79 episodes of the series between 2014 and 2019, making him one of the show's prominent cast members during its early seasons. His departure from the program coincided with his well-documented personal struggles.
The Brown family has not released additional details regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support at 988.
