10 Most Controversial Below Deck Cast Members in Franchise History and Their Impact on the Network’s Image

10 Most Controversial Below Deck Cast Members in Franchise History and Their Impact on the Network’s Image

Below Deck has introduced a diverse array of cast members throughout its various seasons, some of whom have become notorious for their behavior, shaping the show’s reputation. Despite recent speculation about potential cancellations or delays, Below Deck Sailing Yacht is currently in its fifth season, featuring infamously controversial figures like Gary King and Daisy Kelliher. However, Gary is not the only cast member whose actions have sparked concerns within the Below Deck community.

The franchise has its share of problematic personalities, ranging from those who simply created minor annoyances to others facing serious accusations of misconduct, tarnishing the show’s image. Below is a closer look at ten cast members who left a significant mark on the series over the years.

1 Gary King

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

Gary King Montage
Gary King Smiling

Gary King is well-known for his controversial reputation. He faced allegations of sexual misconduct from Samantha Suarez, a former Bravo employee, after an attempted inappropriate advance. Although he denied these claims, the allegations cast a long shadow over his legacy in the franchise. Gary’s problematic behavior predates these accusations, as demonstrated by his jealousy over Daisy and Chief Engineer Colin Macrae’s budding romance. He frequently engaged in romantic pursuits while under the influence, highlighting troubling patterns regarding respect for women’s boundaries.

2 Luke Jones

Below Deck Down Under

Luke Jones and Gary King

Luke Jones is notorious for his deeply troubling behavior during his time on Below Deck Down Under. In a shocking incident, he attempted to enter Margot Sisson’s cabin without her consent while inebriated, prompting production to intervene and prevent a potential sexual assault. His actions compelled a swift firing by Captain Jason Chambers, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise’s approach to crew safety. This intervention signaled a needed shift in how the show handles such severe issues.

3 Ashton Pienaar

Below Deck

Ashton Pienaar

Ashton Pienaar exhibited dangerously aggressive behavior, particularly during an incident involving Kate Chastain. After consuming significant amounts of alcohol, Ashton displayed physical aggression, threatening Kate during a van ride. This led to a necessary intervention from production to ensure her safety. Such alarming instances raise critical questions about crew welfare and the handling of interpersonal conflicts on reality television.

4 Kate Chastain

Below Deck

Kate Chastain

Kai Chastain, a fan-favorite Chief Stew, is not without her controversies. Kate often exhibited questionable behavior that blurred the lines of professionalism. Notable incidents include her notorious blanket-folding gag, which involved creating a risqué shape that was deemed inappropriate. While Kate’s directness was often comedic, she occasionally crossed lines that could have serious consequences.

5 Chef Adam Glick

Below Deck Sailing Yacht & Below Deck Mediterranean

Chef Adam Glick

Chef Adam Glick’s confrontational demeanor made waves during his time on the show. He exhibited possessiveness regarding Malia White, complicating their relationship when she pursued another cast member. Adam’s behavior morphed into bullying, especially towards Jenna, the Chief Stew. His disregard for guest preferences and controlling nature sparked significant concerns about his professionalism.

6 Ashley Marti

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

Ashley Marti

Ashley Marti exhibited problematic behavior during her interactions with Gary King, leading to a controversial sexual encounter that raised questions about consent. Her disregard for professional boundaries and poor conduct towards other crew members emphasized her troubling presence on the yacht.

7 Lexi Wilson

Below Deck Mediterranean

Lexi Wilson

Lexi Wilson’s tenure on Below Deck Mediterranean was marked by unruly behavior, which included verbally lashing out at fellow crew members like Chef Mathew Shea and engaging in physical aggression towards Lloyd Spencer. Her refusal to perform basic job responsibilities and her derogatory comments created ongoing tension and conflict, raising alarms about her suitability for the team.

8 Lara Flumiani

Below Deck Mediterranean

Lara Flumiani

Lara Flumiani was often perceived as a less memorable yet still problematic cast member. Her continually combative attitude and failure to adhere to basic service standards contributed to discord among her colleagues, ultimately leading to her abrupt departure from the season.

9 Kyle Viljoen

Below Deck Mediterranean

Kyle Viljoen

Kyle Viljoen’s antics on Below Deck Mediterranean were often filled with drama, ranging from inappropriate interactions with charter guests to tumultuous conflicts with fellow crew member Natalya Scudder. His blatant disregard for professional relationships spotlighted a broader issue of boundaries within the franchise.

10 Laura Bileskalne

Below Deck Down Under

Laura Bileskalne

Laura Bileskalne’s behavior on Below Deck Down Under was equally concerning, particularly her inappropriate advances toward Deckhand Adam Kodra. Her actions mirrored those of Ashley Marti, echoing troubling themes regarding consent and respect within reality television. Laura’s defense of Luke’s misconduct only compounded the issues surrounding her judgment.

Below Deck Sailing Yacht continues to air on Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo and is available for streaming the next day on Peacock.

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