In season 14 of Gold Rush, Rick Ness makes a triumphant return, eager to dive back into work. Fans couldn’t help but notice his comeback, especially a notable transformation in his appearance. Rick’s transformation is impossible to ignore; once a sturdy gold miner, he now appears noticeably leaner and older. The most remarkable change is evident in his nose, particularly when compared to photos from last year. This abrupt shift has triggered numerous speculations and discussions among fans and followers.
Days before the new season of Gold Rush premiered, the 42-year-old Ness openly discussed his mental health journey. “I was dealing with some mental health issues; there was a lot happening,” he confessed. Being a gold miner comes with its own set of expectations. “I never really sought help—that’s just how I am. A lot was going on in my mind, and I couldn’t pinpoint it because I didn’t understand depression and similar issues. So I tried to handle it on my own, which is tough when you’re in the dark about what you’re facing.”
Ness made the decision to take a year-long break from work, essentially vanishing from Gold Rush during its 13th season. He spent a significant amount of time alone, grappling with the loss of his mother and confronting his inner struggles. However, stepping away from such a fiercely competitive industry like gold mining could potentially mean losing ground and forfeiting millions to competitors. Despite the risks, the beloved reality show star felt compelled to slow down. “I didn’t have a choice; the path I was on was leading to disaster,” he explained. The overwhelming stress of the business took its toll. “I needed to take a step back. It wasn’t good for business, but it was crucial for my well-being. In the end, I consider myself fortunate to have another chance in this field.”
In season 14, Ness plunges back into the world of gold mining, making a bold move by selling his mother’s house to fund his venture and recapture his former success. “I’m starting from scratch with very little in my bank account. I have to make do with secondhand equipment and whatever I can afford,” he reveals. Upon his return to the Yukon, Ness aims to prove skeptics wrong. “Many doubted I would come back,” he states. “A lot of people never expected to see me here again.”
Grieving the loss of his mother to cancer in 2018 at the age of 55, Ness faced tremendous challenges in the following months and years, struggling to find his way. The seasoned gold miner spiraled emotionally, battling deep depression—a battle he openly confronted in the early episodes of the reality show’s 13th season. Devastated by the loss of his mother and the financial security he had gained over a decade in the industry, Ness found himself in a dark place. His life continued to unravel as he sank further into depression, eventually resorting to drugs to numb the pain. Selling his mother’s house, he sought to rebuild what he had lost, with the support of his companion, Brian Zaremba.
Now, Gold Rush viewers have a clearer understanding of Rick’s absence and the challenges he faced. Rick candidly revealed grappling with mental health issues—a new terrain he had never navigated before. Returning for an entire season of Gold Rush, Rick has painstakingly rebuilt his team and equipment from almost nothing. This journey isn’t just a demonstration for the viewers; it’s a personal quest to prove to himself that he possesses the grit needed to thrive in the Alaskan gold country while pursuing his passion.
Are you surprised by Rick Ness’s noticeably changed appearance? Are mental health issues still plaguing him in season 14 of Gold Rush?
