The "Where Are They Now? Alaskan Bush People Truth Revealed" special fueled significant discussion regarding the Brown family and the show's authenticity. Key developments and verified facts since the special aired include:
Legal and Financial Troubles
Several family members faced ongoing legal and financial issues:
- Bam Bam Brown underwent significant weight loss surgery. His wife, Allison Kagan, publicly documented this health journey.
- Gabe Brown & Raquell "Pillow" Rose's daughter, Sophie Jo Staar Brown, was diagnosed with VACTERL syndrome. Gabe publicly shared their difficult journey, including her early surgeries and ongoing health challenges.
- Billy Brown, the family patriarch, passed away suddenly on February 7, 2021, following a seizure at the age of 68. His death occurred at their then-home in Washington State.
- Noah Brown and his wife, Rhain Alish, separated in mid-2022. Their divorce was finalized. Noah later announced his engagement to a woman named Lura.
Property Moves
- The family ultimately lost their original homestead, "Browntown," on Chichagof Island, Alaska, due to unpaid property taxes. Efforts to reclaim it failed.
- Their large Washington property, known as "North Star Ranch," was listed for sale. They subsequently acquired land in Colorado, establishing "Mountain Brow."
Ongoing Production & Current Status
Despite controversies and Billy Brown's death, filming continued:
- The show transitioned to depicting the family's move to Colorado and their efforts to build new lives there without Billy. Several seasons focusing on "Mountain Brow" aired.
- As of now (late 2023/early 2024), "Alaskan Bush People" remains on hiatus. Discovery has not officially announced cancellation. Some family members have suggested filming might resume in the future, but there are no confirmed new episodes.
- The core family members – Ami (widow), Matt, Bam Bam, Bear, Gabe, Noah, and Rain – largely continue to reside in Colorado or travel between locations.
Authenticity Debates
The "Truth Revealed" special intensified existing skepticism:
- Former cast members and consultants reiterated claims that many situations were staged or exaggerated for television.
- Allegations regarding the extent of their "off-grid" lifestyle during filming persisted, fueled by property records and local accounts. The family maintains they lived authentically when cameras weren't rolling.
- The IRS settlement and Washington property tax liens remained central points in discussions about the family's financial reality versus their show persona.
