In the adventurous world of gold mining, Chris Doumitt has become a figure synonymous with resilience and expertise. His journey from a skilled carpenter to a revered Alaskan Gold Miner has been documented on the hit reality TV show Gold Rush. As we tune into the 14th season, Doumitt remains the only original crew member from the show’s inception, a testament to his dedication and passion for mining.
Born in the early 1960s in Portland, Oregon, Doumitt grew up on a family farm, which became his first training ground. Working alongside his father, he developed an early knack for machinery and basic mining skills. However, his initial career path was in carpentry, a skill that inadvertently paved his way into the gold mining industry. Doumitt is also known for his expertise in firearms, having served as a firearms safety instructor for the Sandy Police Department.
Doumitt’s mining career began somewhat serendipitously in 2010 during the first season of Gold Rush. He was tasked with building a cabin for Greg Remsburg’s family. Impressed by Doumitt’s carpentry skills, Todd Hoffman invited him to join the crew, where Doumitt learned the ropes of gold mining through hands-on experience.
After three seasons with Hoffman, Doumitt transitioned to Parker Schnabel’s team at Scribner Creek claim in the show’s fourth season. Originally not planning to stay long, Doumitt quickly became indispensable. His meticulous attention to detail in the Gold Room and his ability to inspire his teammates significantly contributed to the team’s success, achieving a gold collection rate of over 99.9%.
Chris Doumitt’s role as Parker Schnabel’s right-hand man has proven to be invaluable in the high-stakes world of gold mining. His deep understanding of the mining process combined with his practical skills and dedication has made him an indispensable part of the team. Parker, recognizing Chris’s contributions and trustworthiness, has come to rely heavily on his insights and decisions. This mutual respect is evident in the smooth operation of their mining endeavors and in the way Parker often defers to Chris’s judgment on critical matters.
Despite his professional success, Doumitt has faced personal hardships that have tested his strength and resilience. In 2016, a significant blow came when his van and legal documents were stolen, almost costing him everything. The following year brought further challenges as his wife Sharon fought a fierce battle with cancer while Doumitt himself underwent back surgery. This series of events led to his absence from the seventh season of Gold Rush.
Throughout these trials, Chris and Sharon supported each other, demonstrating unwavering mutual strength and dedication. Thankfully, both have since recovered and continue to share a healthy life with their two children. Today, as the steadfast rock of Gold Rush, Doumitt continues to be a source of inspiration and a pillar of strength not only to his family but to fans worldwide.
Chris Doumitt’s remarkable journey from a master carpenter to a treasured gold miner and successful entrepreneur embodies the spirit of true grit and versatility. His enduring presence on Gold Rush has not only provided viewers with a steady hand and an experienced eye but also a warm, relatable personality that resonates with people from all walks of life.
Beyond television, Doumitt is a valued member of Parker Schnabel’s mining crew, where he plays a pivotal role in achieving the crew’s ambitious gold targets. In addition to his mining and television earnings, Doumitt has ventured into the world of business with his own brand, Doumitt Cigar. As a cigar aficionado, he is often seen on Gold Rush with a cigar, reflecting his personal passion for premium tobacco. Doumitt Cigar produces a variety of cigars ranging from affordable options to premium selections, catering to a diverse clientele. The company also offers cigar accessories and bundles with prices spanning from $21 to nearly $200. These products have found a home in the market, available through the company’s official website and in select retail locations across California, Tennessee, and Oregon.
Chris Doumitt’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t end with cigars. He also has interests in golf equipment and smoking accessories, further expanding his business footprint. This diversification strategy not only enhances his income streams but also stabilizes his financial base. As of 2024, Chris Doumitt’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.5 million, a testament to his hard work, strategic thinking, and versatility in both his professional and business endeavors.
Outside of business and television life, Doumitt is a man of many hobbies. He enjoys making his own wine, affectionately known as “Hooch,” and engages in various outdoor activities including shooting competitions, golfing, and hunting. Chris Doumitt’s story is one of transformation and success driven by his ability to adapt and excel in various fields. From swinging a carpenter’s hammer to mining gold and rolling cigars, Doumitt has proven that with passion and hard work, diversifying one’s skills and interests can lead to substantial success and fulfillment.
Chris Doumitt’s enduring presence on “Gold Rush” has not only enriched the gold mining community but also enriched the lives of those who watch him. It is our hope that Chris will continue to be a part of “Gold Rush” for many more seasons, sharing his wisdom, humor, and inspiring work ethic with an audience that has grown to admire and respect him deeply. Chris Doumitt not only enriches the gold mining community but also enriches the lives of those who watch him, and we look forward to seeing more of his adventures and successes in the future.
