Unveiling Below Deck Down Under's Aesha: Embracing a World Where Safety is Paramount

Aesha Scott Mark Rogers/Bravo

Aesha Scott delivered a message to Below Deck Down Under viewers after Luke Jones and Laura Bileskaline's controversial appearance and subsequent dismissal in season 2. Sharing her thoughts on Instagram on Tuesday, August 8, the chief stew emphasized the main message of the episode: that women, and everyone else, have the right to have fun and feel safe. Aesha concluded by urging viewers to look out for their friends and support one another.

Both Aesha and Captain Jason have garnered online support from fans for their actions in defending their costar Margot Sisson, who was put in a compromising situation when Luke got into bed with her naked during a blackout on the boat.

The events unfolded in two consecutive episodes on Monday, August 7. Following the incident, Luke was relocated to a hotel for the night before eventually being fired by Captain Jason. Meanwhile, Laura faced Captain Jason's wrath as she tried to shift the blame onto Margot for Luke's departure. Furthermore, Laura's questionable interactions with deckhand Adam Kodra were brought up, leading to her own dismissal.

After the episodes aired, Laura publicly addressed the incident on her Instagram on Tuesday, expressing her sincere apologies to Adam for unintentionally making him feel uncomfortable. She emphasized that no one should ever be put in such a position and extended her regrets to Margot for not being able to empathize. Laura explained that she was 29 when the show was filmed and turning 30 was a significant milestone for her. Now, at 31, she watches the show as an entertainment show alongside everyone else.

On the other hand, Luke faced criticism for a now-deleted Instagram post on Sunday, August 6. In the post, he emphasized the insignificance of others' opinions and advised taking ownership of one's actions and moving forward. He suggested that everything we hear is merely an opinion, not a fact, and everything we see is subjective, not the ultimate truth.

Prior to joining Below Deck Down Under, Aesha openly shared her personal experience of being a victim of sexual assault. In a confessional during season 4 of Below Deck Mediterranean, she revealed that she had been raped in the past after going out with friends.

In July 2019, Aesha expressed her gratitude on Instagram, acknowledging the overwhelming support she had received. She mentioned receiving numerous messages and comments, and expressed her appreciation for the love and support she had received from people all around. She found it incredible to see so many kind-hearted and beautiful individuals who were ready to show their love and lend a helping hand. Aesha concluded her post by expressing her heartfelt appreciation to everyone.

Aesha initially felt nervous about discussing the incident on Below Deck Med. However, she wanted to convey a message to both girls and boys that similar experiences don't have to define them or their future. She believed that there is still plenty of love, life, and happiness after such events. Aesha hoped that by reaching even one person, she could make a meaningful impact. With her platform, she wanted to take on the responsibility of sharing positive messages, offering support, and spreading love to people worldwide.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).