João Franco’s Journey After Below Deck Mediterranean Season 4: What You Need to Know

The Evolution of João Franco Since Below Deck Mediterranean

Since his time on Below Deck Mediterranean, João Franco has immersed himself in a robust career and personal development. Initially showcased as the lead deckhand in Season 3, João quickly elevated to the role of bosun in Season 4. His talent didn’t go unnoticed by Captain Sandy Yawn, who recognized João’s potential and established a supportive friendship that thrived throughout both seasons. However, behind the scenes, his interpersonal relations with some crew members were tumultuous.

Crew Conflicts and Controversies

Despite showcasing stellar yachting abilities, João struggled to maintain harmony with his colleagues. His behavior raised eyebrows, especially from former chief steward Hannah Ferrier, who labeled him a “misogynist”due to his overt flirting with stewardess Kasey Cohen while simultaneously pursuing Brooke Laughton. Their contentious dynamic often led to clashes on the show. Thankfully, after working through their differences in subsequent seasons, João eventually distanced himself from the franchise until his surprise return in 2023.

João Franco’s Career Milestones

Transitioning to Captaincy

After his departure from the yacht Sirroco, João set his sights on becoming a captain. His journey progressed significantly; by March 2021, during an Instagram Live session with Captain Glenn Shephard from Below Deck Sailing Yacht, João revealed that he was completing his officer of the watch courses and had already captained a 30-meter yacht for over a year.

“I’m gonna do my exam in a month, and then I’m gonna most likely head back to Europe and look for a job on a sailboat,”he shared.

In 2023, João joyfully announced that he was now licensed to captain larger vessels, highlighting his steadfast commitment to his yachting career throughout his seven years in the industry.

Investments in Personal Relationships

João’s Relationship Journey

On a personal note, João’s relationships have seen significant evolution. In a 2021 episode of the “Behind The Velvet Rope“podcast, he disclosed his falling-out with Captain Sandy, noting her inconsistency in their friendship. Now a certified captain, João seems content to have moved on from his earlier ties. Moreover, he found love once more with Domi Tesi, an industry peer, after his engagement to Michelle Dicu ended in mid-2021.

With his newfound captaincy, it appears unlikely that João will return to the Below Deck Mediterranean series. His transition to a commanding role suggests a disinterest in reverting to his previous position as bosun. Nevertheless, he has rejoined the Below Deck franchise in a new capacity, participating in the Australian spin-off, Below Deck Down Under, as a Second Officer under Captain Jason Chambers.

João’s Role in Below Deck Down Under Season 2

Attempting to Shake Off His Villain Profile

While João’s return sparked interest, he inadvertently continued to grapple with his villain status. Both seasons of Below Deck Med portrayed him unfavorably, showcasing an alter ego named Jezabob, who dominated at his worst during drinking bouts. In his latest appearance in Below Deck Down Under, he undertook the challenge of proving his growth and leadership abilities after being brought in to replace Bosun Luke Jones, who was dismissed after a serious incident involving another crew member.

Romantically, João’s endeavor to forge a relationship with Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph ended disappointingly when their chemistry fell victim to his frequently resurfacing unflattering behaviors. By season’s end, he had failed to shed his negative persona, leading to yet another complicated chapter in his ongoing narrative.

What Lies Ahead for João in 2024?

As the year unfolds, João has thus far avoided the spotlight of any Below Deck series. His last appearance in Below Deck Down Under left fans curious about his character arc and lurking motives. Striving to redeem himself wasn’t easy when he faced heartbreak with Chef Tzarina and exited the season bearing the weight of his villainous past.

“I would like to post this in appreciation for Domi. Thank you for being by my side and seeing the good in me even when I cannot see it in myself.”

Professionally, João is thriving. He recently shared a post on Instagram with his yacht crew, celebrating their camaraderie now that the charter season concluded, and was visibly proud to have advanced from bosun to captain. On the personal front, he continues to flourish in his relationship with Domi, who is also involved in yachting.

The Future of João in the Below Deck Franchise

The possibility of a premature return to the Below Deck franchise appears slim for João. His captaincy renders any potential comeback contingent upon replacing a current captain or taking a step back to the bosun level—an unlikely scenario considering his recent successes. If he ever chooses to return, it would likely be far in the future.

While viewers might still hold reservations about welcoming him back, João’s engagement with fans would require a notable demeanor shift, suggesting tempered interactions to restore goodwill. Furthermore, relationships with past colleagues, especially Chef Tzarina, could complicate any future collaborations.

For now, João is focusing on nurturing his personal and professional life outside the realm of reality TV. After facing challenges on the show, a hiatus seems prudent. While his journey is far from over, it appears João will continue to steer clear of Below Deck Mediterranean and its spin-offs for the foreseeable future.

Catch more episodes of Below Deck Mediterranean streaming on Peacock.

Sources: BravoTV, Behind The Velvet Rope, João Franco/Instagram, Bravo/YouTube