Jane Kilcher FINALLY Names The 5 Persons From Alaskan Last Frontier She Hated The Most

Alaskan Bush People was once one of Discovery Channel’s most popular reality shows, offering viewers an intimate look at the rugged survival of the Brown family in the remote wilderness of Alaska. For years, fans were fascinated by their off-grid lifestyle, building homes from scratch, hunting for food, and enduring harsh conditions.

However, behind the scenes, the Browns’ lives were far from the simple, harmonious existence portrayed on television. Over time, the family faced heartbreaking tragedies, shocking legal troubles, and persistent rumors that tarnished their image. Fans have been asking: Which cast members have passed away? Who ended up in jail? And why did the show come to an end? Here’s everything you need to know.

The Rise of Alaskan Bush People

When Alaskan Bush People premiered on Discovery in 2014, it quickly became a sensation. The show introduced viewers to Billy and Ami Brown and their seven children, who called themselves the “Wolfpack.” Their mission was to live completely off-grid, relying on their skills and resourcefulness to survive in the Alaskan wilderness.

Audiences loved the raw authenticity—or what appeared to be authenticity—of the show. Watching the Browns hunt, fish, and build makeshift homes in freezing conditions gave viewers a sense of adventure and admiration for the family’s resilience.

But as the seasons went on, cracks began to show. Behind the cameras, the Browns were dealing with health issues, legal battles, and family conflicts that ultimately led to the show’s downfall.

Which Cast Members of Alaskan Bush People Have Died?

Billy Brown – The Heart of the Show

Billy Brown was not only the father of the Brown family but also the central figure of the series. Born in Texas in 1952, Billy suffered unimaginable tragedy as a teenager when his parents and sister died in a plane crash. He later moved to Alaska in pursuit of freedom and an adventurous life, eventually marrying Ami and raising a large family.

For 12 seasons, Billy inspired fans with his wisdom and leadership. However, health issues began to take a toll. He suffered from heart problems and was advised to move to a lower elevation for treatment. Sadly, Billy passed away on February 7, 2021, after a sudden seizure at age 68. His death was a devastating blow to the family and marked the beginning of the end for the show.

Amber Branson – A Tragic Story

Amber Branson, a relative of Ami Brown who appeared briefly in the early seasons, faced her own struggles after leaving the show. She battled depression and substance abuse and tragically passed away in 2020 after suffering severe burns in a fire-related incident. Her untimely death shocked fans and highlighted the unseen hardships endured by those connected to the family.

Who From Alaskan Bush People Has Been to Jail?

While the show often portrayed the Browns as law-abiding, humble survivalists, reality told a different story. Several family members have had run-ins with the law, leading to arrests and convictions.

Joshua “Bam Bam” Brown – Fraud Charges

In 2014, Joshua Brown, better known as “Bam Bam,” was involved in a legal scandal when he and several family members—including Billy—were charged with fraud for illegally claiming Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend while living outside the state. They eventually pleaded guilty, served 30 days in jail, and performed community service.

Bear Brown – Domestic Violence Arrest

Bear Brown, one of the most energetic and adventurous members of the family, was arrested in 2022 in Washington State for alleged domestic violence against his wife, Raiven Adams. He was later released without bail and accepted a plea deal. Bear has since spoken about working on himself and trying to rebuild his reputation.

Rain Brown – Theft Allegations

Rain Brown, the youngest of the Brown siblings and once a fan favorite, made headlines in early 2025 when she and her husband, Josiah Lorton, were accused of stealing $75,000 worth of cash, gold, alcohol, and firearms from a family member’s home. Rain denied the allegations, and the case remains under investigation.

Why Was Alaskan Bush People Canceled?

After Billy Brown’s death in 2021, Discovery quietly ended Alaskan Bush People. Although the network never gave an official explanation, several factors likely contributed:

The loss of Billy Brown, who was the heart of the series.

Mounting controversies surrounding family members, including legal trouble and personal scandals.

Claims of staged scenes, as locals and former crew members accused the show of faking key storylines.

Despite the controversy, the show left a lasting impression, running for 12 seasons and inspiring millions of viewers around the world.

Was Alaskan Bush People Fake?

For years, critics and Alaskan residents claimed the show was heavily scripted. Reports suggested the Browns lived closer to modern conveniences than the series portrayed, and some scenes were allegedly reenacted for dramatic effect. While Discovery has never confirmed these claims, the debate continues among fans.

Where Is the Brown Family Now?

After leaving Alaska, the Browns relocated to Washington State, where they purchased land in the mountains. While some family members still maintain an off-grid lifestyle, their living conditions are far more comfortable than before. They occasionally share updates on social media, but their lives are quieter and more private than during their TV fame.

Final Thoughts

Alaskan Bush People was more than just a survival show—it was a story of family, resilience, and the human spirit. But behind the cameras were real-life struggles, tragic losses, and controversies that most fans never saw coming. Whether or not the Browns ever return to reality TV remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: their story will forever be a fascinating part of reality television history.