Tom Oar, born in 1943, has become a legendary figure in the world of reality television, best known for his starring role on History Channel’s hit show Mountain Men. His portrayal of rugged, off-the-grid living in the remote Yaak River Valley of Montana has captivated millions of viewers worldwide. With over 35 years of experience living off the land, Oar’s lifestyle showcases an impressive range of survival skills, from tanning hides to crafting tools and living in harmony with nature. His enduring determination, resourcefulness, and old-school craftsmanship have earned him a massive fanbase, many of whom admire his simplicity, resilience, and ability to thrive in extreme environments.
Before his life as a mountain man, Oar was a professional rodeo cowboy, competing in bronc riding. His transition from the rodeo to a life of isolation in Montana with his wife Nancy became the essence of his appeal on Mountain Men. The show highlights the couple’s lifestyle, demonstrating Tom’s mastery of wilderness survival and handcrafting traditions—traits that have made him an icon to audiences seeking authenticity in an increasingly modern world.
However, while Oar’s reputation as a mountain man has grown, his health has taken a more troubling turn in recent years. This shift has introduced a new chapter in Tom’s life, one where his physical limitations increasingly challenge his ability to maintain the lifestyle he cherishes.
Tom Oar’s Health Concerns
Tom Oar’s health problems came to light during Mountain Men Season 11, which aired in 2022. Fans were shocked when, in an episode titled Heart and Soul, it was revealed that Tom had experienced significant health issues. One night, Oar woke up gasping for breath, a frightening moment that led his wife, Nancy, to urge him to seek medical help immediately. It was soon discovered that Tom’s heart was not functioning properly, leading to fluid buildup in his lungs, a condition that could have severe consequences if left untreated
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At 80 years old, Oar had never dealt with serious health problems before, making this diagnosis especially startling. The couple made an 80-mile journey to the nearest clinic in Libby, Montana, where doctors performed a battery of tests. Cardiologists informed Tom that his heart was weakened, prompting them to prescribe medication aimed at strengthening his heart muscles. As a precaution, they also equipped him with a heart rate monitor and a defibrillator vest in case of emergencies, given the remote location of their cabin
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Despite these health challenges, Tom and Nancy returned to their homestead, and Oar appeared determined to continue living the way he always had. However, Nancy admitted that Tom’s condition had deeply altered their lives. Tasks that once came naturally to him, such as trapping and hide-tanning, now required more effort, and Nancy had begun shouldering more of the physical labor
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Although Tom’s health seemed to stabilize with medication, the looming possibility of surgery remained, depending on how well his heart responded to the treatment. His condition forced him to reevaluate how long he could continue living the strenuous lifestyle of a mountain man.
The Return of Heart Issues in October 2024
In October 2024, reports emerged that Tom Oar had been hospitalized once again due to complications with his heart condition. After nearly two years of managing the issue with medication and close monitoring, his heart problems returned, this time more severe. According to sources, Oar had been experiencing increasing difficulty breathing and was taken to a hospital for urgent care. Doctors are now conducting further tests to determine the best course of action, with surgery likely being considered to address the recurring issues
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This latest development has left fans deeply concerned about Oar’s future, not only on Mountain Men but also in terms of his ability to maintain his lifestyle in Montana. Given his age and the severity of his condition, the possibility of Tom and Nancy retiring to a warmer, less isolated location like Florida—where their son lives—has resurfaced
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Conclusion
Tom Oar’s journey from rodeo cowboy to mountain man has inspired millions, but his recent health struggles present new challenges to the legendary figure. His heart condition, which first surfaced in 2022, has now reappeared in 2024, requiring hospitalization and possibly leading to more serious medical interventions. Despite these difficulties, Tom Oar remains a symbol of resilience and determination, qualities that have endeared him to viewers for years. Fans are eagerly awaiting more updates, hoping for his recovery and a continuation of the lifestyle that made him famous. Whether Tom will return to Mountain Men or choose a quieter retirement remains to be seen, but his legacy as one of America’s great modern-day pioneers is secure.