Ricko DeWilde is a renowned Reality TV Personality, best known for his captivating roles on National Geographic’s Life Below Zero and its spinoff, First Alaskans. With a career spanning over a decade, DeWilde has become a household name, showcasing his survival skills and deep connection with the Alaskan wilderness. As of January 2026, DeWilde is 49 years old, born on 7 June 1975 (or possibly 4 July 1975, according to varying sources). His net worth is estimated to be substantial, reflecting his success in the entertainment industry. DeWilde’s career highlights include over 100 episodes on Life Below Zero, cementing his status as a beloved figure in reality TV.
Growing Up in the Alaskan Bush
Growing up in the remote Alaskan bush had a profound impact on Ricko DeWilde’s life and shaped him into the person he is today. Born in Huslia, Alaska, a small village surrounded by vast wilderness, Ricko was immersed in the rich Koyukon Athabascan culture from a young age. His Koyukon Athabascan heritage is a significant part of his identity, and he takes pride in his Native American roots. Ricko DeWilde is a proud member of the Koyukon Athabascan tribe, and his connection to the land and his people is evident in his work and personal life.
As a child, Ricko was exposed to the harsh yet beautiful Alaskan environment, where survival skills and self-reliance were essential for daily life. His mixed ethnicity, with Welsh and Koyukon Athabascan ancestry, added to the diversity of his upbringing. Ricko’s parents instilled in him a strong sense of community and respect for the land, values that have stayed with him throughout his life. Growing up in such a unique and challenging environment laid the foundation for Ricko’s resilience, resourcefulness, and deep connection to the natural world.
Reality TV Career and Life Below Zero

Ricko DeWilde is a well-known reality TV personality, best recognized for his appearances on the National Geographic series Life Below Zero. This long-running show has allowed audiences to gain a deeper understanding of life in the Alaskan bush, and DeWilde’s involvement has undoubtedly contributed to its success. With over 100 episodes under his belt, DeWilde has become a familiar face on the show, sharing his expertise and experiences with viewers.
In addition to his work on Life Below Zero, DeWilde has also been featured on the spinoff series First Alaskans. This show offers a unique perspective on the lives of Alaska’s indigenous people, and DeWilde’s involvement has provided valuable insight into the experiences of the Koyukon Athabascan community. Through his appearances on these shows, DeWilde has been able to share his knowledge and passion for the Alaskan bush with a wider audience.
Owner of HYDZ and Business Ventures

Ricko DeWilde, a Koyukon Athabascan Native, has successfully ventured into various business endeavors beyond his reality TV career. One notable venture is his ownership of HYDZ, a business that showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to adapt to the Alaskan environment. As a seasoned resident of the Alaskan bush, DeWilde has leveraged his knowledge and experience to establish a thriving business.
| Biography Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ricko DeWilde |
| Date of Birth | 7 June 1975 |
| Age | 49 years old (as of January 2026) |
| Place of Birth | Huslia, Alaska, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Reality Television Personality, Owner of HYDZ |
| Notable Works / Achievements | Life Below Zero, First Alaskans |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Koyukon Athabascan and Welsh) |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
Business Achievements
DeWilde’s ownership of HYDZ has been a significant achievement, demonstrating his ability to turn his passion into a successful venture. Although specific details about HYDZ are scarce, it is evident that DeWilde’s business acumen has allowed him to navigate the challenges of the Alaskan market. His entrepreneurial spirit has enabled him to create a successful business that likely contributes to his overall net worth. As a prominent figure in the Alaskan community, DeWilde’s business ventures serve as a testament to his adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Personal Life and Family

Ricko DeWilde is a devoted family man. He is married to his loving wife, and together they have built a life in the beautiful Alaskan wilderness. As a proud husband and father, Ricko values the importance of family and community, often drawing on his Koyukon Athabascan heritage to guide his relationships and daily life. His strong family ties are a testament to the close-knit nature of Alaskan communities.
Relationships and Family Values
Ricko DeWilde’s family life is deeply rooted in his Christian faith, which plays a significant role in shaping his values and relationships. As a straight individual, Ricko has built a loving and supportive family unit, and his commitment to his wife and children is evident in the way he prioritizes their needs and well-being. His family life is a reflection of the strong bonds and community spirit that are characteristic of Alaskan Native cultures.
Personal Relationships
In addition to his family life, Ricko DeWilde’s personal relationships are built on a foundation of respect, trust, and open communication. As a reality TV personality, he has had the opportunity to share his life with audiences around the world, but at the end of the day, his relationships with his loved ones are what truly matter to him. With a strong sense of loyalty and commitment, Ricko values the people in his life and works hard to maintain healthy and fulfilling relationships.
Life in Fairbanks and Christianity
Ricko DeWilde currently resides in Fairbanks, Alaska, a city located in the interior of the state. This region is known for its vast wilderness and extreme climate, a far cry from the urban centers of the United States. Fairbanks is a unique blend of rural and urban living, with a strong sense of community that is deeply rooted in the local culture.
As a Christian, Ricko DeWilde’s faith plays a significant role in his life. His commitment to his faith is a testament to the importance he places on his spiritual well-being. Ricko DeWilde’s Christian faith is a source of comfort and guidance in the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Alaskan bush. In an area where the lines between nature and human existence are often blurred, Ricko’s faith serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, kindness, and humility.
Living in Fairbanks, Ricko DeWilde is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Alaska. The city is nestled in the heart of the Tanana Valley, where the Chena River flows gently through the landscape. The region is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. For Ricko, living in Fairbanks is a chance to connect with the natural world and to live in harmony with the land. As a Koyukon Athabascan Native, Ricko has a deep understanding of the land and its rhythms, and his Christian faith has taught him the importance of respecting and caring for the environment.
Conclusion and Net Worth
With over 100 episodes on the National Geographic series Life Below Zero and its spinoff, First Alaskans, Ricko DeWilde has cemented his place as a reality TV personality. His journey on the show has taken audiences through the harsh yet breathtaking Alaskan landscape, showcasing his expertise and resilience. Born on June 7, 1975, in Huslia, Alaska, DeWilde’s Koyukon Athabascan heritage has been an integral part of his identity and a driving force behind his work.
As a seasoned reality TV personality, DeWilde has demonstrated his ability to thrive in the unforgiving Alaskan environment. His experience living in the bush has been a defining aspect of his career, and his dedication to sharing this way of life with the world has earned him a loyal following. With his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the wilderness, DeWilde continues to inspire and educate audiences about the importance of preserving the Alaskan ecosystem.
As a successful reality TV personality, DeWilde’s estimated net worth is a testament to his hard work and dedication. While the exact figure remains private, his success on Life Below Zero and First Alaskans has undoubtedly contributed to his financial stability. With a career spanning over a decade, DeWilde has established himself as a respected figure in the reality TV world, and his legacy continues to grow with each new episode and project.