Below Deck Sailing Yacht has showcased a compelling array of captains, but Captain Glenn Shephard’s leadership in season 5 has raised serious questions about his effectiveness. Since the show’s premiere in 2020, Captain Glenn has been a prominent figure, guiding a mix of both seasoned and new crew members. Seasons past have featured notable returning cast members like First Officer Gary King, who has stirred controversy throughout his tenure, along with Chief Stew Daisy Kelliher and Chief Engineer Colin MacRae, both of whom have made significant contributions to the series.
Gary King stands out for his controversial reputation, marked by allegations of disrespectful behavior, womanizing tendencies, and questionable leadership skills. His off-camera misconduct has only exacerbated his negative image. Compounding the issue, Captain Glenn, who counts Gary as a friend, has often overlooked Gary’s transgressions, failing to assert the decisive authority that is expected of a good captain.
Gary Disrespected Captain Glenn in BDSY Season 5
Gary Ignited Chaos and Made Excuses
Bravo’s Below Deck Sailing Yacht season 5 presented several instances where Gary’s errors went unchecked by Captain Glenn. In one notable incident, while transporting a performer back to shore, Gary engaged in flirtation that distracted him from operating the tender safely, resulting in a near-mishap with a rock. Surprisingly, when Gary confessed this to Captain Glenn, the incident was largely dismissed.
The most glaring example of Gary’s defiance came during a night out with the guests. Despite Captain Glenn’s clear directive limiting crew members to two drinks, Gary consumed ten and returned to the yacht boasting about his sobriety, all the while exhibiting drunken behavior. When Captain Glenn addressed the situation and proposed a $500 reduction from the tip due to Gary’s rule-breaking, Gary reacted poorly, disrespecting Captain Glenn by questioning his financial motives.
Captain Glenn Missed a Crucial Opportunity with Gary King
Gary’s Impunity Under Captain Glenn’s Leadership
By allowing Gary to speak to him disrespectfully and show no accountability for his actions, Captain Glenn has undermined his own authority. On the final day of the season, instead of using the moment to impart a valuable lesson, Captain Glenn opted for camaraderie, forgoing the opportunity to correct Gary’s behavior for the future.
“What a season! Notwithstanding the lollipop fiasco and the drag night drinking. In your position as First Officer, you’re one of the gang, but you kind of have to separate yourself a little bit. You know you need to start kind of rising above a little bit.”
Given Gary’s aspirations to ascend to a captain’s position in the future, it was imperative that Captain Glenn address his missteps more assertively throughout the season. The lack of discipline displayed by Captain Glenn reflects a concerning gap in his leadership capabilities.
Could It Be Time for a New Captain?
Exploring Better Leadership Options in Below Deck
Captain Glenn’s lackadaisical approach and missed opportunities for engagement make him seem less dynamic compared to his fellow franchise captains. If he fails to assert authority and entertain audiences effectively, it may be time for a change in command on Below Deck Sailing Yacht. A new, more stringent captain or a former first officer or bosun could infuse the show with renewed energy and discipline by holding crew members accountable.
Below Deck Down Under airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST on Bravo, showcasing the adventures and drama that reality yachting life entails.
Source: Bravo/YouTube
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