'Dakota' Fred Hurt Has Died and Fans Are Mourning the 'Gold Rush' Star

Fans of Gold Rush and its many spin-offs are in mourning following news that "Dakota" Fred Hurt, one of the stars of Gold Rush: White Water, died on July 11, 2023. The gold miner, who hailed from North Dakota originally, was part of the Gold Rush universe for more than a decade. Many fans want to know what happened to Fred prior to his death.

Fred had recently taken some time off from the show, but his son Dustin is still a major part of White Water, and is expected to continue to be a major part moving forward.

Just a few months ago, the news broke that Fred had been diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer. The news was a shock to Fred when he found out. Thrill of the Hunt Entertainment, LLC, which Fred co-owned, released a press release announcing the news, saying that Fred was "hit with a bolt from the blue upon hearing the diagnosis."

At the time, Fred said that he remained in good spirits, and his doctors were coming up with several possibilities for treatment.

"I've lived a full 80 years of an interesting life. If I emerge from this dark diagnosis, I'll have another adventure to share with you folks," he said at the time.

Fred stepped away from the show following the diagnosis, and had been battling his cancer out of the public eye.

Fred ultimately lost his battle with cancer, as a post on his official Facebook page made clear.

"'Dakota' Fred Hurt passed away this morning surrounded by family," the post read. "He fought courageously in his battle against cancer. Fred touched many lives and was loved and supported by many. If you feel inclined to donate on Fred’s behalf, please consider donating to the Mike Rowe Works Foundation in Fred’s honor."

"Having worked in skilled labor for the majority of his career, Fred was passionate about teaching others these valuable skills," the post continued.

The post also noted that the request for donations to the foundation was the only donation request to come from Fred's family.

After 80 years, the comments under the Facebook post made it clear that Dakota Fred had touched plenty of people.

"RIP Fred! You’re an incredible example! I’m Thankful to have gotten to know and respect you throughout the Gold Rush series. Many Fans, I’m one too!," one person wrote.

"RIP Fred I’ve followed you from the inception of Gold Rush. Dustin and family my heart is with you, keep digging for that gold, our prayers are with you," another added.

It's unclear what Fred's death might mean for the future of White Water, but Dustin and the rest of Fred's family will likely take some time away from the spotlight to mourn Fred's death in the months ahead.