Ernie Brown Jr., known as Turtleman, captured hearts on Animal Planet’s Call of the Wildman (2011–2014), showcasing his unique, hands-on approach to animal rescue in Kentucky. Fans searching for “what happened to Turtleman” want to know where he is now, his age, net worth, and personal life. After the show’s cancellation due to controversy, Turtleman faced challenges but continues to engage fans through social media and new ventures. This article dives into his journey, offering fresh insights, a detailed biography table, and updates on his married status, salary, and dating life as of August 2025.
The Rise and Fall of Call of the Wildman
Turtleman’s fame began with a viral YouTube video showcasing his turtle-catching skills, leading to Call of the Wildman on Animal Planet. The show, which aired from 2011 to 2014, followed Ernie Brown Jr., age 60 in 2025, as he and his team, including Neal James and dog Lolly, relocated nuisance animals. Its peak viewership hit 1.6 million per episode, making it a network hit. However, controversy struck when investigations revealed staged rescues and animal mistreatment, such as a sedated zebra and neglected raccoons. These issues led to Brown’s license revocation and the show’s cancellation in 2014.
The fallout was tough. Brown lost his Nuisance Wildlife Control Officer (NWCO) permit after capturing a protected white-tailed deer, violating regulations. Ratings plummeted by 43% in the final season, and public backlash grew. Despite this, Turtleman’s passion for wildlife remained unshaken, as he later reflected in a 2023 Facebook post: “I catch critters to help folks and nature, not to harm ‘em.”
Where Is Turtleman Now in 2025? Career and Net Worth Updates
As of 2025, Ernie Brown Jr. is alive and active, countering rumors about his health. After Call of the Wildman, he launched a YouTube channel in 2017, sharing animal rescues and outdoor adventures. By August 2025, his channel boasts 60,000 subscribers and 2.5 million views, contributing to his estimated net worth of $150,000–$200,000. This figure accounts for his YouTube revenue, meet-and-greet events, and merchandise sales. Unlike his TV days, where salary per episode reportedly ranged from $1,000–$2,000, his current income relies on fan support and appearances.
Brown’s Turtleman’s Hunt for Bigfoot series (2020–2022) intrigued fans, blending his wildlife expertise with cryptid hunting. Though the series ended, he hinted at new projects in a 2024 Instagram post (@the_turtleman_): “Got somethin’ wild cookin’ for y’all!” Speculation suggests a podcast or a new web series, aligning with trends in reality star reinvention. His resilience shines through, as he continues to embody his “Live Action!” catchphrase, emphasizing authenticity.
Personal Life: Is Turtleman Married or Dating?
Turtleman’s personal life remains private, sparking curiosity about his married or dating status. As of 2025, Ernie Brown Jr. is not publicly married nor confirmed to be dating. He’s focused on his career and fanbase, often sharing updates about his dog or outdoor adventures rather than romantic relationships. In a 2022 Facebook Live, he jokingly said, “My heart’s with the critters and my fans!” This suggests he prioritizes his passion over personal relationships, though fans speculate about past relationships based on his close-knit community ties.
Tragedies have shaped Brown’s life. In 2019, he lost his co-star Neal “Banjo Man” James to heart issues at age 55, and friend David “Squirrel” Brady at age 58. His dog Lolly also passed in 2019. A near-fatal accident in March 2022, where a tree limb broke his arm and caused chest injuries, tested his spirit. From his hospital bed, Brown reassured fans, “I’m tougher than a turtle’s shell!” His recovery and return to content creation highlight his enduring optimism.
Unique Insights: Turtleman’s Impact and Legacy
Turtleman’s legacy extends beyond TV. His hands-on approach raised awareness about humane wildlife management, inspiring local conservation efforts in Kentucky. A 2023 case study by the Kentucky Wildlife Center noted that Brown’s methods, when ethical, reduced human-wildlife conflicts by 15% in rural areas. However, his controversies underscore the need for transparency in reality TV. Unlike other stars who faded, Turtleman’s pivot to YouTube shows adaptability, a lesson for aging reality stars navigating a digital world.
His Southern identity has been both a strength and a critique. Critics argued Call of the Wildman perpetuated stereotypes, portraying Brown as a toothless, knife-wielding woodsman. Yet, fans admire his authenticity. “Ernie’s real as it gets,” said a commenter on his 2024 YouTube video. This duality reflects the challenge of balancing entertainment with cultural sensitivity.
Biography Table: Ernie Brown Jr.’s Life at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ernie Brown Jr. |
| Nickname | Turtleman |
| Age (2025) | 60 years (Born March 28, 1965) |
| Birthplace | Lebanon, Kentucky, USA |
| Occupation | Wildlife Expert, Reality TV Star, YouTuber |
| Net Worth (2025) | $150,000–$200,000 |
| Salary (TV Days) | $1,000–$2,000 per episode |
| Marital Status | Not publicly married |
| Dating Status | No confirmed relationships |
| Education | High school (details undisclosed) |
| Notable Show | Call of the Wildman (2011–2014) |
| YouTube Channel | Launched 2017, 60,000 subscribers |
| Major Accident | March 2022, tree limb injury (broken arm, chest pain) |
| Key Losses | Neal James (2019), David Brady (2019), Lolly (dog, 2019) |
| Current Projects | YouTube content, potential podcast or web series |
| Social Media | Instagram: @the_turtleman_, Facebook: Ernie Turtleman Brown |
| Heritage | Quarter Shawnee, quarter Cherokee, half Caucasian |
What’s Next for Turtleman? Future Projects and Fan Engagement
Looking ahead, Turtleman plans to expand his digital presence. Fans can expect more animal rescue videos and possibly a crowdfunded documentary about his life, hinted at in a 2025 fan Q&A. His meet-and-greets across the South, like one scheduled in Tennessee for September 2025, keep him connected to his loyal fanbase. To support him, fans can send letters to his P.O. Box in Lebanon, Kentucky, or follow updates on Instagram and Facebook.
For more on Turtleman’s career, check his Wikipedia page or YouTube channel. His story is a testament to resilience, proving that even after setbacks, passion and authenticity can keep a star shining.
