Below Deck: 12 Crew Members Who Escaped Termination Despite Controversies

Uncharted Waters: Crew Members Who Defied the Odds

In the realm of reality TV, the crew members of Below Deck have sailed through turbulent seas, with some facing stormy waters of controversy. While the show has bid farewell to a few troublesome sailors, several managed to navigate their way out of termination. Let's delve into the world of Below Deck and uncover the crew members who narrowly escaped the chopping block.

1. Adrienne Gang's Contentious Journey

Adrienne Gang Below Deck Smiling in promo pic - Below Deck Season 1 - Adrienne Gang Wasn

Adrienne Gang, the Chief Stewardess from Below Deck Season 1, found herself embroiled in a sea of discontent. Despite clashes with her fellow crew members, Adrienne's competence in her role may have shielded her from the ax. Her attention to detail and ability to provide excellent service to the guests helped her maintain her position on the yacht. While her interpersonal skills may have been lacking, her dedication to her job ultimately saved her from termination.

2. Kate Chastain: The Enigmatic Chief Stew

Kate Chastain Below Deck Looking Away Smiling - Below Deck Seasons 2-7 - Kate Chastain Was An Enigma

Known for her bold demeanor, Kate Chastain steered through six seasons of Below Deck, often treading the line of insubordination. Fans marveled at her audacity, questioning how she evaded dismissal for her controversial actions. Chastain's ability to manage the interior team and her impeccable organizational skills were undeniable assets to the crew. Despite her confrontations with crew members and occasional clashes with authority, her professionalism and dedication to her job allowed her to escape termination.

3. Raquel 'Rocky' Dakota's Turbulent Voyage

Rocky Dakota on Below Deck smiling for promo pic - Below Deck Season 3 - Raquel “Rocky” Dakota Was Unhinged

In Season 3, Raquel 'Rocky' Dakota's journey hit rough waters as she struggled to find her footing in the crew. Despite her erratic behavior and clashes with superiors, Rocky narrowly escaped the choppy seas of termination. Her determination to prove herself and her willingness to learn from her mistakes allowed her to redeem herself in the eyes of the crew and ultimately saved her from being sent home. While her journey was filled with drama and controversy, her growth and resilience proved her worth to the team.

4. Mathew Shea: A Kitchen Conundrum

Below Deck Med

Chefs are often the backbone of the crew, but Mathew Shea's tenure in Below Deck Mediterranean Season 6 was marred by his self-centered approach. His culinary skills couldn't salvage his tumultuous journey on the show. Despite his inconsistent performance and clashes with the crew, Shea managed to escape termination. His ability to adapt and improve over time, combined with Captain Sandy Yawn's belief in his potential, allowed him to continue his voyage on the yacht.

5. Adam Glick: Culinary Controversies

Chef Adam Glick's culinary escapades in Below Deck Mediterranean Seasons 2-3 raised eyebrows among guests and crew alike. Despite his questionable choices, Captain Sandy's reluctance to part ways with him kept Adam afloat. Glick's passion for cooking and his ability to create delicious meals under pressure were undeniable strengths. Despite his occasional clashes with crew members and his unconventional approach to cooking, his talent and dedication to his craft ultimately saved him from termination.

6. Rachel Hargrove: A Vocal Departure

Rachel Hargrove made waves with her outspoken nature during her three-season stint on Below Deck. Her clashes with Bravo stars and bold statements led to a dramatic exit, showcasing the volatile nature of reality TV. Hargrove's strong culinary skills and ability to deliver exceptional meals to guests were highly valued by the crew. However, her confrontational personality and inability to work well with others ultimately led to her departure from the show. Despite her controversial exit, Hargrove's talent in the kitchen ensured that she left a lasting impression on Below Deck.

7. Kyle Viljoen: Drama Unleashed

Below Deck

Kyle Viljoen's tenure on Below Deck Mediterranean Seasons 7-8 was marked by tumultuous relationships and fiery conflicts. Despite facing the Captain's warning, Kyle managed to weather the storm of drama. Viljoen's ability to take responsibility for his actions and his commitment to personal growth allowed him to survive on the show. Despite his turbulent journey, his dedication to his job and willingness to learn from his mistakes ultimately saved him from termination.

8. Peter Hunziker: A Troubled Voyage

Peter Hunziker Below Deck Smiling for promo pic - Below Deck Med Season 5 - Peter Hunziker

Peter Hunziker's journey on Below Deck was marred by controversy stemming from his inappropriate behavior. While Bravo took action off-screen due to his social media conduct, Peter completed his on-screen voyage unscathed. Hunziker's strong work ethic and ability to perform his job competently were factors that contributed to his survival on the show. Despite the controversy surrounding him, his dedication to his role as a deckhand ultimately allowed him to escape termination.

9. Eddie Lucas: A Deckhand's Dilemma

Montage Of Below Deck Eddie Lucas - Below Deck Season 1-3, 8-10 - Eddie Lucas Complained About Bravo

Eddie Lucas, a longstanding Deckhand on Below Deck, faced internal conflicts that strained his relationship with the show. Despite voicing grievances against Bravo, Eddie's tenure continued without termination. Lucas's strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to handle challenging situations made him an invaluable asset to the crew. Despite his frustrations with the show's production process, his dedication to his job and his contributions to the team allowed him to stay on board.

10. Ross McHarg: A Controversial Figure

Ross McHarg Below Deck Looking Confused - Below Deck Season 10 - Ross McHarg Did Inappropriate Things

Ross McHarg's journey on Below Deck Season 10 was clouded by controversies and inappropriate behavior. Despite facing scrutiny, Ross managed to navigate through stormy waters without facing immediate consequences. McHarg's ability to address and learn from his mistakes, coupled with his strong work ethic, helped him salvage his position on the yacht. While his behavior may have been inappropriate at times, his commitment to personal growth and his dedication to his job allowed him to escape termination.

11. Ashton Pienaar: The Bosun's Battle

Bosun Ashton Pienaar's tumultuous journey on Below Deck Season 6-7 left a trail of discord among the crew. While his actions drew criticism, Ashton's presence persisted, showcasing the complexities of crew dynamics. Pienaar's strong leadership skills and ability to manage the deck team were highly valued by Captain Lee Rosbach. Despite the controversies surrounding him and the conflicts with his fellow crew members, his contributions to the operation of the yacht ultimately saved him from termination.

12. Gary King: A Controversial Course

Below Deck franchies Gary King and Eddie Lucas montage - Below Deck Sailing Yacht Seasons 2-4 - Gary King Crossed The Line Several Times

Gary King's voyage on Below Deck Sailing Yacht Seasons 2-4 was marred by controversy and misconduct allegations. Despite the storm surrounding him, Gary's journey continued, sparking debate among viewers. King's competence in his role as a deckhand and his ability to perform his duties effectively allowed him to remain on the show. While his behavior may have crossed the line at times, his contributions to the team and his dedication to his job ultimately saved him from termination.

Unveiling the untold tales of Below Deck crew members who weathered the storm of controversies and managed to stay afloat amidst turbulent seas.

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Source: wahoowayoo/Reddit, Cheat Sheet, Bravo/YouTube, Bravo, Watch What Happens Live, Rachel Hargrove/X, Yahoo, RollingStone, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen/YouTube, Distractify