Explosive Showdown on Below Deck Med: Tumi Mhlongo and Natalya Scudder Clash Moments After Introduction!
Tensions arise between Below Deck Med's Tumi Mhlongo and Natalya Scudder moments after their introduction, leading to a heated exchange Season 8's first charter sees Natalya stepping in for Tumi, adding an intriguing dynamic to the show
Tumi Mhlongo and Natalya Scudder Fred Jagueneau/Bravo; Laurent Basset/Bravo
Natalya Scudder and Tumi Mhlongo from Below Deck Mediterranean have finally crossed paths, and their interactions are proving to be much more confrontational than anticipated. In a recent episode of the Bravo series, which aired on October 2nd, Tumi assumed the position of chief stew, taking over from Natalya who had missed the initial charter due to visa complications. However, as Natalya guided Tumi through the operations aboard the Mustique, tensions quickly arose between the two colleagues.
The problems arose when Tumi dismissed the concept of living in Florida, where Natalya stays when she's not on charter. The situation escalated further when Tumi expressed her initial thoughts on the interior.
"It's intriguing. It brings to mind Harry Potter, in a way. The organization is a mess," the former Below Deck Down Under cast member remarked, then clarifying her statement. "No, I'm not referring to you. I'm referring to the actual boat itself. The way it's naturally arranged is chaotic."
Natalya, on the other hand, defended the various sections of the boat, stating, "I find it impressive. Each level has its own service and glassware. Plus, everything is conveniently situated on the same level, so there's no need to rush around or worry about glassware." Tumi, however, was disappointed that she couldn't express her thoughts to Natalya. "I am expressing my opinion and sharing my feelings," she explained. "Please don't take this defensively. I'm simply pointing out that naturally, you are becoming offended. I mean no offense to you."
The reality star praised the impeccable work the organization had done in a day. However, they pointed out that the setup of the vessel was not to their liking when they boarded. Moving on, Natalya shared her reasons for the successful stint as the temporary chief stew.
"I must say, it has been wonderful thus far," she mentioned, followed by addressing her discomfort with Tumi's hand gestures. "Please refrain from doing that with me. It would be much appreciated if you refrain from raising your hands at me. Thank you."
Natalya had previously expressed her apprehension about relinquishing her position in the episode.
"I believe our first charter was incredibly successful. I have managed to forge strong relationships with everyone on board. Additionally, I have meticulously arranged and organized this yacht to near perfection. It will definitely be challenging for me to relinquish control," she shared with the cameras. "All I really want is to meet her in person and see how things unfold."
Tumi, on the other hand, left a mark during her collaboration with Aesha Scott in season 1 of Below Deck Down Under. During her confessional, Tumi expressed her apprehensions about taking on the role of chief stew for the first time.
"I'm concerned about coming aboard this boat as the rookie," she explained. "There's always that nagging self-doubt, especially when you're deeply passionate about something and you desperately want to succeed. The uncertainty is just overwhelming."
Tumi expressed concern about earning the respect of her colleagues, especially considering her limited experience in the industry. Setting boundaries from the start is crucial for her, as she has always faced this challenge in the yachting field. She shared with the cameras her fear of being deemed incapable or encountering a lack of representation.
Tumi's perception of Natalya had already been shaped after talking to Kyle, who had previously had a disagreement with Natalya. However, they have resolved their differences since season 7.
"When I was getting my visa, Kyle mentioned that he had both good and bad experiences with Natalya. I don't want to be treated disrespectfully, but I also don't want to have to ask for respect," Tumi expressed on Monday's episode. "This is where my concern lies. So, naturally, I'm feeling worried."
Despite Tumi's ongoing efforts to establish rapport with her team, her superiors have already given their approval to the chief stew. Captain Sandy expressed her admiration for Tumi's abilities after receiving a recommendation from Captain Jason of Below Deck Down Under.
"I have received glowing feedback about you and I have faith in Jason," Sandy said in a confessionals. "I wholeheartedly support Tumi. The fact that she faced immigration issues was not her fault. Captain Jason highly recommended her for the position of chief stew. She is focused, determined, hardworking, and compassionate. I am confident in her abilities to succeed in this role."
Below Deck Mediterranean airs on Bravo Mondays at 9 p.m. ET.
