Tony Beets, a Dutch-born Canadian miner, has become a household name thanks to his starring role on the Discovery Channel’s hit series Gold Rush. Born on December 15, 1959, in Wijdenes, Netherlands, the 64-year-old miner has carved out an impressive legacy, both in the Klondike gold fields and on reality television. With a net worth of $15 million, Tony’s journey from humble beginnings to mining mogul is as compelling as the dramatic episodes of Gold Rush itself.
From Dutch Countryside to Yukon Territory
Tony Beets spent his early years in Wijdenes, Netherlands, working on his family’s farm and earning money by milking cows. But the daily grind of farm life wasn’t enough for Tony, and he sought out greater opportunities. In 1984, after a stint in Canada’s construction industry, he made the bold decision to enter the mining business in Dawson City, Yukon Territory.
Tony’s operation, the Tamarack Mine, has become one of the largest and most successful in the Klondike region. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Beets has a reputation for giving local teenagers a chance to work at the mine. While many can’t handle the rigors of the job, those who stick it out become valuable members of the team—and in some cases, extended members of the Beets family.
Reality TV Stardom: The Rise of “Tony Peep”
Tony Beets’ larger-than-life personality made him a natural fit for reality television. He joined the cast of Gold Rush during its second season, advising Todd Hoffman on drilling test holes. Since then, Tony has appeared in more than 160 episodes of the series, as well as spinoffs like Gold Rush: South America, Gold Rush: White Water, and Gold Rush: The Dirt. His candid demeanor and penchant for profanity earned him the nickname “Tony Peep,” as much of his dialogue is bleeped out on the show.
One of the most memorable moments in Gold Rush history was during the show’s fifth season, when Tony purchased the Viking Dredge for $1 million. This massive piece of equipment symbolized Tony’s fearless approach to mining and his willingness to take big risks for big rewards.
Family Matters: A Partnership Built on Love and Business
Tony met his wife, Minnie, when they were just kids growing up in Friesland. The two began dating in 1978 and moved to Canada together after 18 months. They married when Tony was 24, and Minnie was 23. The couple has four children—Kevin, Monica, Mike, and Bianca—all of whom are involved in the family business. Tragically, their daughter Jasmine passed away in 1992 at just 2 1/2 months old.
Minnie plays a crucial role in the Beets’ operation, managing the paperwork and accounting side of the business. The family’s strong bond extends to their off-season life as well. They own a winter home in Arizona, where they enjoy a more relaxed pace away from the mines.
Challenges and Controversies
Tony Beets is no stranger to controversy. In 2015, an episode of Gold Rush showed one of his employees performing a “Viking baptism” by pouring gasoline into a dredge pond and setting it on fire. The stunt resulted in charges under the Yukon Waters Act, and the employee was fined $1,725. Despite these challenges, Tony’s determination and resilience have kept him at the top of his game.
