Sue Aikens, a renowned American television personality, has captured the hearts of millions with her adventurous spirit and survival skills. Best known for her starring role in the hit show Life Below Zero, Sue’s determination and remarkable ability to thrive in Alaska’s unforgiving wilderness have transformed her into an inspiring icon. Sue Aikens net worth, estimated at around $500,000 to $1.5 million, is a testament to her multifaceted career and her resilience.
This biography dives into Sue’s life story, exploring her background, career milestones, and how she built her financial success in one of the harshest environments on earth.
Early Life and Family
From Illinois to Alaska
Born as Susan Aikens on July 1, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, Sue Aikens had a childhood that prepared her for the life of an adventurer. Her parents divorced when she was 12 years old, leading to a dramatic turn in her life. Her mother relocated with young Sue to a remote area of Alaska, leaving behind their previous life in Illinois.
Life in the Alaskan wilderness was a stark contrast to her earlier years. Survival was not just a skill but a necessity. Despite these challenging circumstances, Sue’s early years in Alaska molded her into a resourceful and self-reliant individual.
Education
Sue attended Lowell Whiteman School, a private institution that emphasized experiential learning. She completed her high school education by the age of 13, showcasing her intellect and adaptability. Later, she even learned to fly airplanes, a critical skill for navigating Alaska’s remote regions.
Career Highlights
Life Below Zero – A Turning Point
Sue Aikens’ career reached new heights when she became a cast member of Life Below Zero, a National Geographic reality series documenting the lives of individuals surviving in Alaska’s challenging conditions. The show debuted in 2013 and has since enjoyed immense popularity, even winning multiple Emmy Awards.
Throughout her tenure on the show, Sue became a fan favorite for her grit, sense of humor, and unfiltered portrayal of life in the wilderness. She reportedly earns around $4,500 per episode, making Life Below Zero a significant contributor to Sue Aikens net worth.
Kavik River Camp
Beyond her television career, Sue owns and operates Kavik River Camp, a remote outpost located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The camp, open to tourists for a few months each year, offers a unique glimpse into Sue’s rugged lifestyle. For $350 per night, visitors experience the harsh beauty of Alaska with Sue as their guide.
Kavik River Camp has not only contributed financially to Sue Aikens net worth but also solidified her status as a wilderness expert.
Additional Media Appearances
Before Life Below Zero, Sue appeared in several other shows, including Sarah Palin’s Alaska (2010) and Flying Wild Alaska (2011–2012). She has also been a guest on programs like The Joe Rogan Experience and Today. These appearances have added to her fame and diversified her income streams.
Physical Attributes
Sue Aikens stands 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and weighs approximately 169 pounds (77 kg). Despite her age of 61 in 2024, Sue remains active and physically capable, a necessity for her demanding lifestyle in Alaska.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Sources of Income
Sue Aikens net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1.5 million, derived from various income sources:
- Earnings from Life Below Zero, estimated at $60,000 to $100,000 per season
- Profits from Kavik River Camp, charging $350 per night
- Revenue from speaking engagements, merchandise, and book sales
Notable Financial Details
Category | Details |
---|---|
Net Worth (2024) | $500,000 to $1.5 million |
Primary Income Source | Life Below Zero |
Kavik River Camp Revenue | Seasonal, $350 per night |
Other Income Streams | Media appearances, public speaking, merchandise |
Personal Life and Challenges
Relationships
Sue has been married three times. Her first husband tragically passed away from a brain tumor, and her second husband also died after 17 years of marriage. She is currently in a relationship with Michael G. Heinrich. Sue has two grown children who live in different parts of the country.
Surviving a Bear Attack
Sue’s resilience was tested in 2007 when she was attacked by a male grizzly bear. The incident left her with severe injuries, but her survival instincts and determination kept her alive. Her courage during such hardships continues to inspire many.
Health and Fitness
Sue made headlines in 2020 for losing 75 pounds, a transformation attributed to healthier living rather than medical procedures. Her weight loss reflects her commitment to staying fit for her rugged lifestyle.
Awards and Recognition
While Sue has not received formal awards outside of Life Below Zero‘s Emmy wins, her contributions to the show and her role as a wilderness survivalist have earned her widespread recognition and admiration.
The Future of Sue Aikens
Sue Aikens is considering leaving Kavik River Camp as age and government policies pose challenges. However, her entrepreneurial spirit and resourcefulness suggest that she will continue to inspire people through new ventures, whether in television, public speaking, or entrepreneurship.