Tom Oar, a prominent figure from the reality TV series *Mountain Men*, has encountered significant challenges that have profoundly affected his life.

Known for his rugged lifestyle and survival skills, Tom’s journey has captivated audiences since the show premiered in 2012. However, recent developments have led to troubling circumstances for him and his wife, Nancy. Before gaining fame on *Mountain Men*, Tom lived a life deeply connected to nature.

Residing in the Yaak River Valley of Montana, he and Nancy embraced a lifestyle built on simplicity and self-sufficiency. Tom became highly skilled in traditional crafts, particularly brain tanning, a technique he learned from a small book he discovered during a visit to an Indian store. His passion for the outdoors began in his childhood in Illinois, where he developed a love for horseback riding and rodeo.

Tom’s rodeo career flourished in the 1960s, but a near-fatal accident in 1970 forced him to reconsider his path. After retiring from rodeo, he and Nancy moved to Montana, where they faced the harsh realities of wilderness living.

They learned to trap, tan, and hunt, gradually adapting to their new environment. As *Mountain Men* grew in popularity, the couple’s lives changed dramatically. Initially, they enjoyed the attention, but the influx of visitors to their remote home soon became overwhelming. In a 2019 interview, Tom revealed that over 300 people visited their property in one summer, which strained their privacy.

Despite this, Tom expressed appreciation for his fans, acknowledging the interesting conversations and connections he made. However, the pressures of fame, coupled with personal health issues, began to take a toll.

In a recent season, Tom faced a serious health scare when he struggled to breathe at night. Medical examinations revealed that his heart was not functioning properly, leading to concerns about his future.

Although he later reassured fans of his health, the incident highlighted the fragility of his situation. In 2025, it was announced that the upcoming fourteenth season of *Mountain Men* would be Tom’s last. He acknowledged the difficulty of stepping away from a lifestyle he cherished but recognized that retirement might be necessary.

In his own words, “It’s just Nancy and me, an old Dodge pickup, and a thirty-foot chain. We can’t keep this up forever.” Fans have speculated that Tom may seek a quieter life, possibly in a sunnier location, as he transitions away from the demanding lifestyle depicted on the show. Tom Oar’s journey from a rodeo champion to a beloved character on *Mountain Men* reflects resilience and the pursuit of passion.

As he prepares to step back from the spotlight, his legacy will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of fans who have followed his adventures. Tom’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself while navigating the complexities of fame and personal health.