Jessie Holmes (2025 Update): Age, Wiki, Net Worth, Wife?, Life Below Zero Star & Iditarod Racer
Jessie Holmes is anything but ordinary. At the age of 16, he left behind the comforts of home in Alabama to forge a life in one of the harshest environments on Earth—the Alaskan wilderness. For more than 20 years, he has lived off the grid, relying on his skills as a carpenter, hunter, fisherman, and musher to survive. Best known for his role on National Geographic’s Life Below Zero, Jessie shares his journey alongside a large team of sled dogs, often numbering around 40 who are not just working animals, but true partners in survival.

Table of Contents
Early Life
Jessie Holmes was born on February 20, 1982, in Odenville, Alabama, United States. His mother is Judy Richmond Holmes, and his grandfather, Gene L. Richmond, served in the U.S. military during World War II, stationed in the Philippines.

Jessie spent his early years in Odenville and attended St. Clair from 1993 to 1997. At age 16, he made a bold decision to leave home and pursue a life of wilderness adventure. With only his dog for company, he headed west and began working as a carpenter in Montana, a job he held for three years. During that period, while navigating the challenges of youth, Jessie also experienced a few run-ins with the law.
Path to Alaska
After his time in Montana, Jessie continued north toward the Canadian frontier. Opting for the land route, he rode a train to Fort Nelson, British Columbia, and hitchhiked from there into the Yukon Territory. He began running remote traplines in the wilderness with the help of sled dogs—an experience that sparked his lifelong passion for mushing.

At 22, Jessie arrived in Alaska and never looked back. He initially lived in Eagle before making a notable trip from Hess Creek to Tanana at age 24—one of his early long-distance journeys with sled dogs. A black-and-white photo from that trip shows him paddling a canoe—his first sled dogs, Bandit and Carpe, by his side. Reflecting on that period, Jessie described it in his own words: “What an adventure—we didn’t have much grub and were living off the rich land!”
Eventually, Jessie put down roots in Nenana, a remote town along the river, southwest of Fairbanks. Living without electricity or running water, he depended on the Nenana River for daily needs. He embraced a subsistence lifestyle—trapping in deep winter and fishing during warmer months. His regular catches included wolverines, muskrats, and lynxes. His sled dogs weren’t just transportation; they were vital partners in the demanding rhythm of off-grid survival.
Sled Dog Racing Career
Sled dog racing has deep roots in Alaska’s history, once serving as a lifeline for Indigenous communities and early settlers who relied on dog teams for survival in the harsh wilderness. Today, that tradition lives on through mushers like Jessie Holmes. A seasoned competitor and devoted dog trainer, Jessie has become a prominent figure in the modern mushing world—most notably through his repeated appearances in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. His commitment to building and maintaining a powerful, well-conditioned dog team reflects both his respect for the sport’s heritage and his drive to compete at the highest level.

Jessie raises and trains a large kennel of sled dogs and provides for them year-round. In the summer and fall, he turns to salmon fishing—once reporting a catch of 4,000 fish in a single season back in 2010—to stockpile food for the dogs. He also harvests natural resources like blueberries, referring to his 200-pound haul that same year as “blue gold.” These efforts ensure the dogs are well-nourished and ready for the physical demands of racing.
Jessie’s entrance into competitive mushing came with modest results. In 2006, his first 200-mile race ended in a last-place finish. Undeterred, he continued training and refining his approach, eventually purchasing the former dog yard of 1976 Iditarod Champion Jerry Riley to further his ambitions. He was mentored by seasoned mushers, including one who returned to the trail in 2016, at age 80 to help train Jessie’s growing team.
This persistence paid off. In 2016, Jessie claimed victory in the Yukon Quest 300—a pivotal milestone that marked his arrival as a serious competitor. The following year, he won the Kobuk 440, further establishing his place in the mushing world. Among his standout dogs was Titan, a focused leader who helped Jessie secure six race wins over three years, including a record-breaking Kobuk 440 victory.

He made his Iditarod debut in 2018 and placed 7th, earning Rookie of the Year. From 2018 to 2022, he consistently ranked in the top 20 and earned over $103,000 in prize money. He placed 7th in 2018, 27th in 2019, 9th in 2020, 5th in 2021, and 3rd in 2022. In 2023, he finished 5th with a time of 9 days, 4 hours, 8 minutes, and 53 seconds, earning $33,450. In 2024, he placed 3rd again, clocking 9 days, 8 hours, 18 minutes, and 4 seconds, and taking home $43,400.

In 2025, Jessie reached the pinnacle of his racing career by winning the 53rd Iditarod. After more than 10 days on the trail and braving extreme subzero temperatures, he crossed the finish line in Nome as the official Iditarod Champion. The victory marked a major milestone not just for Jessie, but also for his hometown of Odenville, Alabama, and the mushing community that had supported him from the start.
Trail Running and Mountain Racing
In addition to sled dog racing, Jessie has a long-running passion for mountain trail racing. On August 20, 2011, he placed 4th in the Wickersham Dome Trail Race with a time of 1:04:12. He later won the Chena Hot Springs Run ‘N Soak, completing the 8.5-mile course in 1 hour, 16 minutes, and 20 seconds. In 2014, he set a personal best on the Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs trail despite muddy and hazardous conditions. He also participated in the Matanuska Peak Challenge, tackling 9,100 feet of elevation gain and descent across 14 miles.
More recently, Jessie has remained an active and competitive trail runner. He placed 3rd in the 2023 and 2024 Run ‘N Soak races—an 8.5-mile technical trail climbing 2,200 feet through Alaskan backcountry. Jessie has described it as one of his favorite races, emphasizing the strong sense of community and camaraderie among fellow mushers. He noted the added joy of ending the event with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs, calling the race a highlight of his summer.
Life Below Zero
Jessie Holmes joined Life Below Zero in 2015, making his debut in Season 6, Episode 1, titled “The Resurrection.” The show chronicles the daily survival routines of Alaskans living off the grid, and Jessie quickly became a standout cast member thanks to his resilience, craftsmanship, and strong bond with his sled dogs. Based in Nenana, Alaska, he lived a rugged, self-sufficient lifestyle centered on subsistence hunting, fishing, and competitive dog mushing.
Appearing in 132 episodes between 2015 and 2023, Jessie was a mainstay on the show for nearly a decade. His segments consistently highlighted his ability to thrive in isolation, build infrastructure from raw materials, and care for over 40 sled dogs while preparing for winter and racing season. Unlike some characters who faded from the series, Jessie maintained a consistent and compelling presence until his final season in 2023, Season 21.
One of Jessie’s trademarks on the show was his hands-on approach to building and maintaining essential structures. He was shown constructing a smokehouse near his fish camp, just five miles from home. Using seasoned wood and bartered planks, he peeled bark by hand and assembled a sloped-roof shelter to preserve fish for his dogs. This project, like many others, reflected Jessie’s ingenuity and the barter-based, labor-intensive life he led in the Alaskan bush.
Maintaining a large team of sled dogs was central to Jessie’s lifestyle. As winter approached each year, he took pains to reorganize his dog yard, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce risks. In one season, he enlisted a friend with heavy machinery to help level the ground—recognizing that having dogs scattered in the woods posed safety risks. “This got to become professional, organized so I can deal with it efficiently,” he noted. By bringing order to his operation, Jessie could monitor and train his dogs more effectively and minimize injury risks.
Jessie also relied on a fish wheel to provide food for his sled dogs. Constructed from spruce log rafts and rotating baskets, the device enabled him to catch hundreds of fish a day under ideal conditions. During Season 6, he was shown racing to reposition the fish wheel after the Tanana River’s water level dropped rapidly. He explained the urgency: if the wheel became grounded, it could ruin his season. Despite the silt-heavy river’s dangers, he managed to free the wheel and restore its function, reinforcing the high-stakes nature of his subsistence setup.
His living conditions were equally demanding. At times, Jessie lived in a tent while building or expanding his permanent cabin. In Brushkana, he was shown installing a large window despite freezing temperatures and recovering from surgery. “I’ve been struggling for five weeks to get strong again, and I’m still 80%,” he said, underscoring both physical vulnerability and mental determination. Completing the window installation became a symbolic victory. “To me, having this home here is a symbol of never giving up,” he reflected.
In the aftermath of the 2022 injury—when he suffered a broken wrist—Jessie focused on recovery while slowly resuming physical tasks. As strength returned, he tackled essential projects such as rebuilding his outhouse. Working through deep snow and harsh temperatures, he hand-dug the snow-covered site and sourced spruce poles from nearby forestland. “Some people see the disadvantages of living out in the bush. I look at the advantages,” he explained, showcasing his ability to adapt and make the most of limited resources.
Another winter found him racing against the cold to insulate his cabin’s roof. With only four hours of daylight, Jessie adapted by working at all hours—sometimes even at 3:00 a.m. He acknowledged the toll of age and experience: “Whenever I was 20 years old living in a tent, all winter was nothing. But I’m not 20 anymore.” Nonetheless, he completed the task and finally moved out of his tent, with a wood stove providing warmth and stability for the harsh season ahead.
As the show evolved, so did its cast. While early figures such as Kate Rorke, Glenn Villeneuve, and Salitan couple: Eric and Martha Mae exited, other stalwarts like Sue Aikens, Ricko Dewilde, Chip Hailstone, Agnes Hailstone and narrator James Franzo continued through the series’ end in Season 23. Jessie Holmes, whose last appearance came in Season 21, was a long-running cast member known for his self-sufficient lifestyle, hands-on craftsmanship, and dedication to dog mushing in the Alaskan wilderness.
Net Worth and Income Sources (2025)
As of 2025, Jessie Holmes has an estimated net worth of $500,000. While not wealthy by traditional standards, he has built a sustainable life through hard work, self-reliance, and a deep connection with the Alaskan wilderness.
Jessie earns a significant portion of his income from the National Geographic series Life Below Zero, where he has been a prominent cast member since 2015. Reports suggest he earns between $5,000 to $15,000 per episode, depending on screen time and season length.
Another key source of income comes from his participation in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of Alaska’s most challenging endurance events. Prize money varies based on placement, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Jessie consistently ranks among the top finishers and has earned both recognition and financial reward from the race.
Outside of television and racing, Jessie also works as a carpenter, taking on construction jobs during the warmer months. Additionally, he has started earning through brand endorsements, merchandise sales, and appearances at public events related to dog mushing and survival living.
Accident and Injury
On September 28, 2022, Jessie Holmes was injured in a utility task vehicle (UTV) accident while volunteering in Golovin, Alaska. He had traveled to the remote village alongside fellow Iditarod mushers Brent Sass, Jeff Deeter, and Richie Beattie to assist with recovery efforts after Typhoon Merbok caused significant flooding and property damage across the region.
Following the accident, Jessie was initially suspected to have sustained multiple injuries, including broken ribs, a fractured wrist, and internal trauma. He was first transported to a regional hospital in Nome via emergency medical flight and was subsequently transferred to Anchorage for surgery. Medical evaluations confirmed a broken collarbone as the most serious injury.

At the time of the accident, Jessie did not have health insurance. In response, the community launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover his medical expenses. The fundraiser ultimately raised $47,886 before closing, reflecting the strong support he received from fans and fellow Alaskans.
Despite the setback, Jessie made a gradual return to physical activity. Within weeks, he resumed light tasks and eventually resumed work on his homestead and training with his sled dogs, as later seen on Life Below Zero.
Personal Life: Jessie Once came close to Marrying his Girlfriend
As a public figure and television personality, Jessie Holmes is accustomed to the spotlight, but he remains intensely private about his personal relationships. One of the few glimpses into his romantic life came when he revealed that he once had a serious girlfriend during his time living in Eagle, Alaska.
According to Jessie, the relationship lasted several years and nearly led to marriage. However, the couple eventually parted ways. He has not disclosed the reason for the breakup, though he has indicated that it was a significant turning point in his life. Following the split, Jessie decided to take his mushing career more seriously and committed himself to competitive racing, including the Iditarod.
Since then, Jessie has dedicated himself to building his life around sled dogs, wilderness living, and self-reliance. He relocated to Nenana, Alaska, where he built a cabin and continues to raise and train his dogs.
Though fans have occasionally speculated about his connections with other mushers—such as Julie, a fellow dog musher featured on his Instagram—Jessie has not confirmed any new romantic relationships. Instead, he seems content with his solitary lifestyle, often expressing that his dogs provide all the companionship he needs.
Jessie’s commitment to his lifestyle and animals continues to shape his path, reflecting a man who finds fulfillment not in romantic partnerships but in purpose, perseverance, and the Alaskan wilderness.
Jessie Holmes – Wiki Bio Facts
Field | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Jessie Holmes |
Birthdate | February 20, 1982 |
Age | 43 years old (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Odenville, Alabama, United States |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Caucasian |
Gender | Male |
Sexuality | Straight |
Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
Eye Color | Hazel Green |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Education | St. Clair County School (1993–199X) |
Profession | Hunter, Trapper, Reality TV Personality, Musher, Iditarod Racer |
Notable Shows | Life Below Zero (Seasons 10–21) |
Dog Kennel Name | Can’t Stop Kennels |
Mushing Debut | 2006 (First 200-mile race) |
Iditarod Debut | 2018 – 7th place, Rookie of the Year |
Major Race Wins | Yukon Quest 300 (2016), Kobuk 440 (2017) |
Best Iditarod Finish | First place (2025) |
Trail Running | Wickersham Dome, Run ‘N Soak, Angel Rocks, Matanuska Peak |
Injury | 2022 UTV accident in Golovin (broken ribs, collarbone, wrist) |
Relationship Status | Single; previously came close to marriage |
Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 |
Parents/Siblings | Not publicly disclosed |
Go Jessie go. ROLL TIDE bro
War Eagle fool
You are my favorite, you have so many skills and i love seeing you with the dogs and on the races. Good luck and stay safe.
One of my top favorite programs. Jessie all your passion for living an the love of dogs comes across, your a good man. The way you live is so refreshing to watch. Your definitely a Mountain Man!
Would be so exciting to spend a week with Jessie, not sexually just a guest.
I would enjoy living off the grid, building something out of nothing.
Who feeds the dogs when Jessie is out hunting for several days?
That’s what I want to know.
I would like to know as well.
Me too
Ya, this guy gives me the suspicions. He probably has a lot of money and help. His constant “my dogs are my life” seems very phoney.
I love watching Jesse with his sled dogs, he seems like a dedicated Alaskan now, living his dream. He works very hard at everything he does, and seems very self sufficient.
I think he is a great add to the cast of Life Below Zero, one of my favorite reality series.
Hes such a hardworking man on this show. All of the people are on LBZ. But he just amazes me. His outlook on work is just phenomenal. Nothing stops him. Hes is my favorite. Go jess…..get it done and won.
Good luck in the race
I love dogs. I have two. Jessy’s dogs don’t looks healthy or well fed. They look skinny & seem to have fur missing on their backsides. Who would dump 2 squirrels in with salmon with even skinning or removing the gun pallets How often does Jessy feed these neglected looking dogs. Mad me sad to see how he feeds and may treat these poor dogs. Compare the conditions of Jessy’s dogs to Andy’s dogs. Andy’s dogs look happy, have healthy shiny coats, are clean with no bald spots and look to have a lot more muscle and look very well fed.
since when did you become a Vet? NOT
What kind of rifles does Jessie hunt with.
I would love to come visit and experience some of the things you have to do to survive that we take for granted
Be safe take care God bless you
It drives me crazy that those poor dogs are chained up all day; I do not understand why animal welfare agencies in Alaska have not investigated…those poor dogs have no toys or balls and are not allowed to play with one another…they should be inside by the fire, and, when they are outside, should have their freedom. As our groomer says about spoiling dogs: “If you can’t or won’t (spoil your dog), you should not have a dog. Also, like others, would like to know who feeds them when Jesse is gone; also, when they are alone, they are at the mercy of any predator who happens upon the property.
Who takes care of the dogs that are left behind when Jessie races or leaves for days
It seem you don’t want to answer about who feeds your dogs when you are gone and only take part of them.
Jesse Holmes seems to me that he most definitely works hard and is a determined man who can achieve anything he puts his mind to. I admire how self-sufficient he is without having to count on anyone. It is admirable to see an individual live his life the way that brings him happiness and joy. Although he has proved to himself and others who may have criticised the way he lives you have got to wonder, “what about sharing that life with someone else that may desire the same thing and having another person to share things with? (not just in a sexual way eventhough your goals seem to have more meaning at some point in your life (when your tired of being by yourself all the time). Basically, the house he builds can only become a home when their is love and companionship.
Seems to meet this guy is a rich kid who has lots of advantages he doesn’t mention. He seems like a huge phony. Disingenuous.
Jesse has multiple dog handlers that take care of his dogs when he is on the trail. Sled dogs are racing dogs: they look skinny to those who have little experience with sled dogs. However, the dogs are muscled up and are not underfed.