For over a decade, Chip Hailstone has been one of the most recognized figures in Life Below Zero, a show that has documented the rugged lifestyles of Alaskans surviving in extreme conditions. As one of the series’ longest-running cast members, Chip and his family became household names, known for their incredible hunting skills and ability to thrive in the harsh Arctic environment. However, with the show likely coming to an end, Chip has finally opened up about his future plans and what life will look like after Life Below Zero.
The End of an Era: Life Below Zero May Not Return
After 12 years on the air, Chip Hailstone has hinted that Life Below Zero may no longer continue filming. His statement suggests that the show’s producers may have wrapped things up, although no official confirmation has been made.
“I don’t think they will film LBZ again.”
This statement aligns with reports and speculation that the show has reached its conclusion, marking the end of an era for both the Hailstone family and the dedicated audience that has followed their journey for over a decade.
A Life of Repetition, Yet Unique Every Time
Living in the Arctic means adapting to the cycles of nature, and for Chip, every season brought a familiar set of challenges. Despite the repetition, each experience was unique in its own way.
“After 12 years, you detect the cycles, yet each is unique. The repetition in the show is when, with the seasons, we are all basically trying to achieve the same sorta thing; wood, small game, fur, meat, fish and such, all in the season that they generally arrive with, all over the state. 2 or 3 Moose hunts, etc.”
This deep connection to nature is something Chip intends to continue, even as the cameras stop rolling.
The Harsh Reality: The Lowest Paid Cast Member
Despite the show’s success, Chip revealed that he and his family were among the lowest-paid cast members. The way payments were structured meant that the Hailstones often had to divide their earnings among multiple family members appearing in a single episode.
“Honestly, each location is paid a set ‘fee’ and we divide ours by whoever/how many we have in any one episode. 7 kids, + their honeys, and lots of grandys, Divide by 15 sometimes, actually 16 when Uncle Sam has his hands in our pockets. Usually, it was 3-5 of us, or split 4-6 on an episode.”
This distribution of income meant that, despite their popularity, Chip often worked for free and sometimes even ended up with losses.
“I sometimes worked for nothing and a couple times came out behind when all was settled. 200+ episodes and it evens out, but at the time, this led to a lot of friction and loss to us.”
However, he maintains a positive attitude about the experience, acknowledging the benefits of being part of the show.
“What the hell, they paid the gas and we hunted, kept what we caught and that was awesome.”
Life After Life Below Zero: Chip’s Future Plans
With Life Below Zero seemingly in the past, Chip has been focusing on personal projects that have grown far beyond his expectations.
“So, personally, I’ve dived into some deep interests, and it’s gotten much bigger than I imagined. I’m very overwhelmed in work lately, but all to good effect.”
Although he didn’t specify the exact nature of these interests, it is clear that he has been keeping busy and preparing for a secure future.
Long-Term Financial Planning for the Future
One of Chip’s biggest concerns post-Life Below Zero is ensuring financial stability for the years ahead. As someone who has lived off the land for most of his life, he understands the importance of planning for the long haul.
“While in my mid-50s, I’m setting up for my 70-90s, money-wise.”
This shows a pragmatic approach to his financial future, ensuring that he remains self-sufficient as he ages. He also hinted that, while he isn’t completely ruling out a return to television, it would take a significant financial incentive to bring him back.
“If I were offered enough $, I might do more.”
However, given his experiences with being underpaid, it seems unlikely that he would accept just any offer without careful consideration.
Embracing Solitude: Moving Into a Tent
While many might assume that after years of hard work, Chip would seek a more comfortable and conventional retirement, that’s far from the case. His ultimate plan is to return to a simpler way of living—one that aligns with his lifelong values and love for the wilderness.
“When I’m done in a year or two or so, I’m going to move into my tent and stay there.”
This declaration perfectly encapsulates Chip’s philosophy of self-reliance and minimalism. Unlike most people who dream of luxury in their later years, he is looking forward to immersing himself fully in nature, away from modern distractions.
Reflecting on the Journey
Despite the hardships, Chip has no regrets about his time on Life Below Zero.
“Be assured, we enjoyed 99% of what we were doing as we went along doing what we do best. We would have done it anyway, I think, without cameras for 12 years, as on the show and off, we are ourselves doing what we do.”
For Chip, the show was never about fame or money—it was simply an extension of the life he and his family were already living. The cameras may have documented it, but their way of life would have continued regardless.