The Below Deck franchise has been a launching pad for many aspiring yachties, significantly shaping their careers. However, for some cast members, their journey in yachting abruptly ended after appearing on the show. In recent developments, the screening of Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5 revealed several cast members who struggled to uphold the demands of life on the water. Notably, Danni Warren and Diana Cruz frequently criticized Chief Stew Daisy Kelliher, creating a challenging atmosphere onboard. Similarly, First Mate Gary King had to terminate Deckhand Emma Crouch due to concerns over her performance and attitude.
With the upcoming season of Below Deck Down Under, it is likely that viewers will encounter new characters with equally tumultuous prospects. While stars like Chief Stews Aesha Scott and Kate Chastain have left lasting impressions, several others faded quickly. Below is a list of eight Below Deck franchise alumni whose yachting aspirations collapsed post-show.
1. Dani Soares
Below Deck Sailing Yacht
Dani Soares, featured in Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 2, kicked off her yachting career with promise but saw it dwindle quickly. Her relationship with co-star Jean-Luc Cerza-Lanaux culminated in the birth of her daughter, Lilly Rose, in May 2021. While Jean-Luc initially denied paternity, a DNA test confirmed him as the father in January 2022.
Shifting gears, Dani chose to embark on a new journey in healthcare. After enrolling in nursing school in early 2021, she embraced her new roles as a mother and healthcare professional. Dani celebrated her graduation as a registered nurse in May 2024, often sharing her experience of navigating single parenthood while managing her studies and career. Jean-Luc has remained largely absent from Lilly’s life.
2. Hannah Ferrier
Below Deck Mediterranean
Hannah Ferrier became an audience favorite on Below Deck Mediterranean, but her yachting career faced a dramatic downfall when she was discovered with an unregistered vape and Valium, leading to her dismissal. Despite the controversy surrounding her exit, she has successfully pivoted from yachting to entrepreneurship.
After leaving the show, Hannah co-founded the Ocean International Training Academy, an online educational platform for aspiring yacht crew. Personally, she married Josh Roberts in March 2022 and welcomed their daughter, Ava Grace, in October 2020. Hannah has also ventured into reality TV and podcasting, echoing her dynamic adaptation post-show.
3. Jean-Luc Cerza-Lanaux
Below Deck Sailing Yacht
Jean-Luc’s journey on the Below Deck franchise ended following personal controversies, including his relationship with Dani and the subsequent paternity issue. While still connected to the yachting industry, he chose not to return to reality television.
He is currently embracing a more private life, traveling for work and sharing his experiences on social media. He has been in a relationship with Jennifer for over a year, and while Jean-Luc seems to be moving forward, his past actions remain a significant part of his narrative.
4. Ashton Pienaar
Below Deck
Ashton Pienaar, who gained notoriety in seasons 6 and 7 of Below Deck, faced severe backlash following an alcohol-induced altercation while filming. His experience on the show was marred by aggressive behavior, particularly toward Chief Stew Kate Chastain, leading to a watershed moment in his career.
In response to his tumultuous experience, Ashton has committed to personal growth, prioritizing health and sobriety. His journey symbolizes a broader lesson about the consequences of actions and the importance of self-reflection in the wake of public scrutiny.
5. Eddie Lucas
Below Deck
Eddie Lucas, prominently featured in the first season of Below Deck, experienced substantial professional development throughout his tenure, ultimately achieving the role of First Officer. Stabilizing his career post-show, Eddie took a position with Moran Towing Corporation in Baltimore, where he has steadily ascended through the ranks.
In 2024, Eddie’s crew aided in the rescue of stranded mariners in Baltimore Harbor, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to service and leadership within a new maritime context.
6. Raquel “Rocky” Dakota
Below Deck
Raquel Dakota’s brief time on Below Deck ended disastrously, marked by her secret romantic involvement with Eddie and tumultuous interactions with the crew. Following Chef Leon’s firing, her reaction involved a dramatic overboard jump, but she returned to the yacht, highlighting her unpredictable nature. Ultimately, Rocky’s strained relationships in yachting led her to exit the industry for good, focusing on personal growth and spirituality.
7. Luke Jones
Below Deck Down Under
Luke Jones emerged as a significant controversial figure in season 2 of Below Deck Down Under, leading to the abrupt end of his yachting career due to sexual misconduct. His actions toward Stew Margot Sisson were met with immediate intervention from Chief Stew Aesha and Captain Jason. This incident brought serious attention to the standards of conduct within the industry.
The repercussions of Luke’s actions also affected his co-star Laura Bileskalne, resulting in her termination. This case emphasizes the zero-tolerance approach toward misconduct in yachting, ensuring participants consider the long-term effects of their behavior.
8. Gary King
Below Deck Sailing Yacht
Gary King’s involvement in yachting continues, but his history of misconduct remains a concern for his future prospects. His on-screen antics showcased troubling behavior characterized by excessive drinking and inappropriate advances. Although he has denied allegations of misconduct leveled against him, the controversies have raised questions about his credibility in the industry.
|
Below Deck Sailing Yacht |
Gary King |
|---|---|
|
Age |
36 |
|
Job |
First Mate |
|
Hometown |
Knysna, South Africa |
Despite efforts to amend his behavior, including attempts at sobriety, Gary’s future in yachting remains uncertain, particularly as Captain Glenn’s sentiments remain supportive yet cautious regarding his potential leadership role.
Below Deck Down Under airs on Mondays at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo and is available for streaming on Peacock the following day.
Source: Jean-Luc Cerza/Instagram
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