Alaska: The Last Frontier is a popular reality TV show that follows the lives of the Kilcher family as they survive in the harsh wilderness of Alaska. The show has been airing on Discovery Channel since 2011 and has attracted millions of fans who enjoy watching the Kilchers’ adventures and challenges.
However, living in such a remote and dangerous place also comes with risks and perils. Over the years, there have been rumors and speculations that some of the cast members have died or suffered near-fatal accidents while filming the show. So, who died on Alaska: The Last Frontier 2022? Is there any truth to these claims? Let’s find out.
Otto Kilcher’s Blood Clot Scare
One of the most beloved cast members of Alaska: The Last Frontier is Otto Kilcher, the youngest son of Yule and Ruth Kilcher, who immigrated to Alaska from Switzerland in the 1930s. Otto is known for his skills in farming, mechanics, and recycling. He is married to Charlotte Kilcher and has four children.
In 2016, Otto experienced a life-threatening health crisis when he developed a blood clot in his leg that could have traveled to his lungs and killed him within 48 hours. According to Alaska’s News Source¹, Otto was bedridden and in excruciating pain when he was rushed to the hospital by his wife and son. He underwent surgery to remove the clot and was lucky to survive.
Otto later said that he was grateful for his family’s support and that he learned to appreciate life more after his near-death experience. He also said that he would try to take better care of himself and avoid stress.
Atz Lee Kilcher’s Fall From a Cliff
Another cast member who had a close brush with death is Atz Lee Kilcher, the son of Atz Kilcher and the nephew of Otto Kilcher. Atz Lee is an avid hunter and fisherman who loves exploring the Alaskan wilderness. He is married to Jane Kilcher and has two children.
In 2015, Atz Lee suffered a horrific accident when he fell from a 40-foot cliff while hiking with a friend near Otter Cove. He broke 25 bones, including his shoulder blade, hip, ribs, ankle, and collarbone. He also punctured a lung and suffered internal bleeding. He was airlifted to a hospital where he underwent several surgeries and spent months in recovery.
Atz Lee later said that he was lucky to be alive and that he owed his life to his friend who called for help and stayed with him until the rescue team arrived. He also said that he was determined to overcome his injuries and return to his normal life.
Shane Kilcher’s Back Injury
Another member of the Kilcher family who faced a serious injury is Shane Kilcher, the son of Atz Kilcher and the brother of Atz Lee Kilcher. Shane is a carpenter and a homesteader who lives with his wife Kelli Ware Kilcher and their four children.
In 2017, Shane was working on building a cabin for his family when he fell from a ladder and landed on his back. He fractured his L2 vertebrae and was paralyzed from the waist down. He was taken to a hospital where he underwent surgery and started physical therapy.
Shane later said that he was grateful for his wife’s support and that he was optimistic about his recovery. He also said that he hoped to finish his cabin project someday.
Conclusion
Despite the many rumors, no one on Alaska: The Last Frontier died in 2022. However, some cast members did suffer serious accidents and injuries that could have been fatal if not for their quick actions and medical interventions. These incidents show how dangerous and unpredictable life in Alaska can be, but also how resilient and courageous the Kilcher family is.
