Fans of the Discovery Channel are mourning after news that Matt Brown is dead at the age of 43. The eldest star of “Alaskan Bush People” was confirmed deceased by his brother, Bear Brown, in an emotional video shared on social media, bringing a heartbreaking end to days of worry after he had been reported missing.

The Family’s Announcement

In the early hours of Sunday, May 31, Bear Brown, 38, took to Instagram with the devastating update. The post followed his earlier announcement on Friday that his older brother was missing and feared dead.

In the video, Bear shared that a body had been recovered and positively identified as Matt. He explained that the discovery came after a tense and painful period for the family, who had been bracing for the worst.

According to Bear, their brother Noah helped recover Matt and was involved in identifying him. The detail underscored just how close and personal the loss was for the tight-knit family, who became known to audiences for their isolated, self-reliant way of life.

A Brother’s Grief

Bear spoke candidly about his shock and sorrow. He admitted that he never would have suspected Matt would hurt himself, noting that his brother had struggled for a long time. Bear said his fears for Matt had run in a different direction, and that this outcome was not the one he had anticipated.

He acknowledged that the injury appeared to be self-inflicted, while emphasizing that the coroner still needed to complete an examination. Even amid his grief, Bear felt it was important to let people know that the family had received confirmation it was indeed Matt.

A Message About Kindness Online

Perhaps the most striking part of Bear’s update was a direct and heartfelt plea to social media followers. He asked people to be respectful toward his family and especially toward his mother, urging viewers to be mindful of the comments they leave.

His words carried particular weight given what he revealed next. Bear noted that in one of Matt’s final videos, his brother had spoken about how negative people had been on his posts. Bear reminded followers that the people they watch on screen are real human beings, and he offered a sobering reflection that words can sometimes wound more deeply than physical blows.

It was a poignant reminder of the human cost of online cruelty, delivered by a grieving brother in his most vulnerable moment.

An Outpouring of Support

In response, the comments filled with prayers and condolences from fans. Many expressed deep sorrow for the family’s loss and sent love and support. Several singled out Matt’s mother, Ami Brown, for special prayers, while others extended their sympathy to Noah, recognizing the lasting impact that recovering his brother may have on him.

The wave of compassion reflected the connection viewers had formed with the Brown family over years of watching their lives unfold on television.

Remembering Matt Brown

Matt was the eldest of the seven children of Ami Brown and the late Billy Brown. His siblings include brothers Joshua “Bam Bam” Brown, Solomon “Bear” Brown, Gabriel “Gabe” Brown, and Noah Brown, along with sisters Amora “Snowbird” Brown and Merry Christmas “Rain” Brown.

As the firstborn, Matt held a distinct place in the family that audiences came to know through the show. “Alaskan Bush People” aired on the Discovery Channel for 14 seasons, running from 2014 to 2022, and chronicled the family’s rugged, off-the-grid existence in the Alaskan wilderness.

The Bottom Line

The death of Matt Brown marks a profound loss for his family and for the many viewers who followed the Brown family’s journey over more than a decade on television. As they grieve, Bear’s message stands out: a call for compassion, both for his family in their mourning and for anyone on the other side of a screen who may be struggling.

His reminder that real people exist behind every post, and that kindness matters, feels especially urgent in light of his brother’s experience. As the family awaits the coroner’s findings, they have asked above all for respect and gentleness during an unimaginably difficult time.

This is a sensitive subject, and if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, support is available. You can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US. If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call 911.