Fraser Olender Expresses Appreciation for Captain Sandy Amidst Challenges on Below Deck
Fraser Olender reveals his true feelings towards Captain Sandy following their challenging season on 'Below Deck' in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly
Fraser Olender and Captain Sandy Yawn's onscreen relationship on Below Deck was rocky, but they have since improved their bond. "I recently saw Captain Sandy in London about three weeks ago, and we get along," Fraser, 30, revealed exclusively to We at BravoCon on Friday, November 3. He brushed off any lingering drama from the past, stating, "This happened a long time ago. Some people think it's ongoing, but it actually occurred two years ago."
He stated, "We have a close friendship and I have learned a great deal from her. I am extremely thankful for her." Sandy, who is 59 years old, stepped in on season 10 of Below Deck to assist Captain Lee Rosbach while he faced health problems. During the show, viewers witnessed a conflict between Fraser and Sandy when she let go of stews Camille Lamb and Alissa Humber. Sandy subsequently accused Fraser of being responsible for the problems in the interior department and referred to him as a detrimental force on the ship.
“The fish stinks at the head and presently you are that very head. What you have accomplished is the creation of the most awful experience I have ever encountered on a boat with a chief stew,” she expressed in a February episode. “When faced with insubordination and unapologetic disrespect, there is no tolerance on my part. It all started with Fraser, and it must conclude with Fraser. He lacks respect for authority and must regain my respect.”
Fraser Olender, Captain Sandy. Bravo (2)
Fraser started crying when he recalled the conversation to his mother.
"I was deeply disturbed by Captain Sandy's disrespectful remarks towards me, and I shared my opinion with the rest of the crew. Somehow, word got back to the captain, and she labeled me as the crew's problem. This comment left me in tears, especially considering my painful experience with my father and his battle with cancer. It sickens me to be compared to such a terrible disease. I feel absolutely devastated that she holds such negative thoughts about me."
Following the episode's broadcast, Sandy faced criticism from viewers and subsequently retracted her comments.
"I regret my choice of words when discussing my experience with cancer," she confessed to Us in February. "Throughout my years as a captain, those were the terms commonly used. However, I recognize the need for personal growth and would definitely alter my language. It was a poor selection of words."
Despite this, Sandy maintained her dissatisfaction with Fraser's performance as a leader. "There was a point where I actually considered firing him," she admitted. "The walls are thin and it's crucial not to jump on their bandwagon. It's important to change that narrative. As the superior, it's your responsibility to your team. Instead of addressing my concerns with the interior team members, I approached the chief stew and demanded a resolution. After all, they were the ones who hired them."
Lee, aged 73, ultimately returned to the ship to complete the season. Unfortunately, Lee, the original captain of Below Deck, will not be returning for season 11. Captain Kerry Titheradge, from Below Deck Adventure, will be taking over instead.
Fraser, on the other hand, had only positive things to say about his new captain.
Fraser Olender. Laurent Bassett/Bravo
Fraser praised Kerry, Sandy, and Lee, stating that they are all exceptional in their own ways. He further indicated the upcoming challenges they face in season 11, acknowledging personal growth while highlighting the difficulties of working with an imperfect crew. However, he hinted that viewers would witness the ensuing disaster.
Kerry shared his thoughts on joining the new Below Deck series and expressed gratitude for Lee's advice. He mentioned that Lee assured him of having a skilled crew, particularly praising the chief stew.
With reporting by Christina Garibaldi
