The wild Alaskan wilderness is not for the faint-hearted, and few shows capture the raw grit and resilience it takes to survive there like Port Protection. This National Geographic reality series, set in the remote community of Port Protection, Alaska, shines a light on the lives of its hardy residents who have chosen isolation over civilization, self-sufficiency over convenience. Since its premiere, the show has gained a loyal following, intrigued by the rugged lifestyle and fiercely independent characters.
But as with any long-running reality series, fans inevitably ask: Port Protection cast, where are they now? The answer varies—some have continued living their off-grid lives, some have moved away, and tragically, others have passed on. In this article, we’ll catch up with some of the most memorable cast members and reveal what life looks like for them today.
What Is Port Protection?
Port Protection originally aired in 2015 under the name Port Protection Alaska. The show was briefly halted but returned due to popular demand. It’s a spin-off of Life Below Zero, another popular Nat Geo series, and features individuals who live in the tiny Alaskan community of Port Protection, located on the northern tip of Prince of Wales Island.
With no law enforcement, limited infrastructure, and no roads leading in or out, the people of Port Protection rely on their skills, tools, and each other to survive. It’s a unique blend of rugged beauty and harsh reality—and it makes for compelling television.
Sam Carlson – The Tinkering Legend
If there’s one face synonymous with Port Protection, it’s Sam Carlson. Known for his mechanical prowess and creative solutions to survival challenges, Sam is a fan favorite. As of now, Sam continues to live in Port Protection and remains an integral part of the community. He’s often seen mentoring younger residents and working on various DIY projects that make off-grid life more manageable.
Sam’s son, Matt Carlson, occasionally appeared on the show and continues to visit and support his father. Their bond and shared love for the wilderness is one of the heartwarming themes that keep fans coming back.
Mary Miller – The Tough-as-Nails Fisherwoman
Mary Miller brought a unique combination of grit and grace to the screen. A fiercely independent woman, Mary carved out her space in the male-dominated world of remote Alaskan survival. From fishing to wood-splitting, she handled it all with quiet strength.
As of the latest updates, Mary still resides in Port Protection and remains active in the community. She’s become something of a symbol for strong women in survivalist culture, and her popularity continues to grow. Her social media presence has also allowed fans to follow her off-camera adventures and appreciate the authenticity of her lifestyle.
Curly Leach – The Jack-of-All-Trades
Curly Leach was known for his hands-on approach to just about everything—from trapping and fishing to building and repairs. His friendly nature and no-nonsense attitude made him a standout figure in the series.
Though he hasn’t been as prominently featured in the latest seasons, Curly is believed to still reside in the area. He may not always be in front of the camera, but he remains an influential figure in the tight-knit Port Protection community.
Gary Muehlberger – The Heart of the Show
One of the most beloved cast members, Gary Muehlberger, was known for his incredible survival skills and kind heart. He had lived in Port Protection for more than 40 years and was an essential part of the show’s original charm. Tragically, Gary passed away in 2021 when his home caught fire.
His death was deeply felt both within the community and by fans around the world. National Geographic paid tribute to him in a special episode, and his legacy continues to live on through reruns and online fan groups who celebrate his wisdom and kindness.
Timbi Porter and Her Family
Timbi Porter, her husband, and her daughter also featured prominently in earlier seasons. The family dynamic brought a different layer to the show, showcasing how family units function in such an isolated setting.
Since their last appearance, Timbi and her family have maintained a lower public profile. There are rumors that they moved out of Port Protection, possibly in search of better healthcare or educational opportunities for their daughter, but these remain unconfirmed.
Hans and Timbi Porter
The Porters, known for their love of nature and resourceful ways, contributed significantly to the community while they were on the show. Hans was known for his philosophical musings and approach to survival. They have not appeared in recent seasons, and like Timbi, seem to have chosen a quieter life away from the camera.
Amanda Makar – Where Did She Go?
Amanda was another strong female cast member who stood out for her fierce independence. She was skilled in hunting and fishing and was never afraid to tackle a challenge head-on.
Amanda left Port Protection after Season 2. The reasons for her departure were not publicly shared, but fans speculate it could have been due to personal reasons or the toll of constant filming. Her whereabouts today are largely unknown, though she occasionally surfaces in online discussions among fans who hope for her return.
Port Protection Today: A Changing Community
While many of the original cast members remain, the community has evolved. New faces have joined, bringing fresh energy and different survival techniques to the show. What hasn’t changed, however, is the central theme: a life off the grid, driven by grit, resilience, and a deep respect for nature.
How Accurate Is the Show?
It’s worth noting that Port Protection is a reality show, which means some moments are dramatized or selectively edited for narrative appeal. However, by most accounts, the show offers a fairly accurate depiction of life in this remote Alaskan outpost.
Locals have confirmed that while not every detail makes it to air, the core of what’s shown—survival in isolation, dependence on nature, and a strong sense of community—is very real.
Port Protection Cast: Where Are They Now?
To circle back to the original question, “Port Protection cast, where are they now?” — most of them are right where we left them: living off-grid in one of the most remote corners of the United States. Others have moved on or sadly passed away, but all have left an indelible mark on fans and the genre of survival television.
For those who follow the show religiously, keeping up with the cast through occasional interviews, social media, and fan forums is a way to stay connected to a lifestyle that many admire but few dare to live.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the show, Port Protection offers more than just survival tactics—it’s a study in human resilience, community, and the deep satisfaction of living life on your own terms.
And speaking of finding the right place to call home, if you’re considering a drastic life change (maybe not as extreme as Port Protection), the first step might be making a move. If you’re thinking, “It’s time to sell my house El Paso,” then you’re already on your own adventure—just one that starts with new keys instead of a chainsaw.
Call us anytime at 713-561-5162 or connect with us on our website and we’ll lay out all of your options for your specific situation.