Summary
Below Deckhas cast its fair share of villains over the years, and while some need to stay far away, others would be a welcome reintroduction. Sometimes, a villain is mostly harmless– someone who causes drama among the crew but isn’t especially problematic. A villain can provide comic relief or call other cast members out for their bad behavior. While there are cast members who have made problematic decisions, like sexual harassment, other villains deserve a second chance.
Below Deck Mediterraneanseason 9is well underway, and heroes and villains are emerging in the cast. While Chef Jono Shillingford had villain vibes, he might be on a redemption arc. Additionally, Bri Muller and Elena Dubaich were embroiled in a dramatic love triangle. Nonetheless, there are many former franchise villains thatBelow Deckshould definitely bring back for another season.
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10Ashley Marti
Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 3
Ashley Marti’s journey onBelow Deck Sailing Yachtseason 3 was marked by significant controversy and plenty of drama, establishing her as a franchise villain. Her relentless pursuit of First Officer Gary King turned problematic one night when she pressured him into a hookup despite his inebriated state. This incident, coupled with her ongoing conflicts with fellow crew members, particularly Gabriela Barragan, exacerbated tensions on the yacht.Ashley created a hostile work environment, ultimately leading to Gabriela’s mid-season departure. Despite her villain status, Ashley could be brought back to shake things up. She isn’t afraid to speak out against her coworkers and brings the drama. Ashley also has loose ends to tie up since she chose not to attend the reunion. However, Ashley is now an OnlyFans star and might be done with the franchise.
9Raquel “Rocky” Dakota
Below Deck Season 3
Raquel “Rocky” Dakota quickly emerged as one of the most controversial figures in the series' history. Known for her dramatic flair and outspoken personality, Rocky often clashed with her fellow crew members, constantly stirring up drama on Eros. Her tumultuous relationship with bosun Eddie Lucas was one of the season’s central storylines and significantly contributed to her villain reputation. Rocky’s tendency to dismiss responsibilities, combined with her unpredictable behavior and frequent outbursts, made her a polarizing figure. Despite the villain status,Rocky was undoubtedly a compelling character. Eddie is definitely missed as one of the best bosuns in the series, but Rocky could come back as well. Perhaps she’s matured a bit and would be better without Eddie around. Unfortunately,Rocky has allegedly left the yachting industrysince her time onBelow Deckseason 3.
8Camille Lamb
Below Deck Season 10
Camille Lamb caused drama, conflict, and controversy,making her one of the standout figures onBelow Deckseason 10. The deckhand and stew quickly clashed with her fellow crew members, including Chief Stew Fraser Olender and deckhand Alissa Humber. Her work ethic and attitude were frequently called into question, with rightful accusations of laziness. Her constant issues were often highlighted during crew meetings and guest interactions, painting Camille as a villain. Her tendency to confront others and escalate tensions contributed to her villainous reputation on the show. However, this same fiery personality and the entertainment value could be compelling arguments for her return. She appeared briefly in a FaceTime call with Bosun Ben Willoughby in season 11, and her straight-shooting personality has clearly been missed. It would be very interesting to see her dynamic withBenand Sunny Marquisif they both return.
It would be fascinating to pair Camille onscreen with Ben again, especially given his relationship with Sunny.
7Barbie Pascual
Below Deck Season 11
Barbie Pascual had quite a rollercoaster ride onBelow Deckseason 11, and while she left after the last charter in a huff, she would be welcome as a returning character on the series. The spoiled trust fund baby was forced to work for her inheritance aboard St. David inBelow Deckseason 11, and while Fraser and Xandi Olivier’s treatment of Barbie was often unfair, she also deserved much of the flack she received. Even in the last charter, Barbie overslept her alarm and demanded extra time to get ready.
Furthermore,Barbie’s treatment of Kyle Stillie was problematic. He undoubtedly had an interest in the stew, but she was too concerned with her father’s opinion to treat him respectfully. Instead of working through issues, she stormed off the yacht after the last charter, a clear sign of her lack of professionalism. However, she was endlessly entertaining and could build a redemption arc in another season.
6Rachel Hargrove
Below Deck Seasons 8-10
Chef Rachel Hargrove’s knife skills were as sharp as her tongue, making her a memorably villainous chef. She joined the cast in season 8 and quickly made an impression with her exceptional cooking and volatile temperament.Rachel’s candidness and unfiltered comments often led to tension with crew members, contributing to her villain persona. Notably, her dramatic exit from the yacht after a foul-mouthed tirade, when presented with an extravagant preference sheet, cemented her reputation.
Chef Rachel was one of the more problematic chefs onBelow Deck, but she was also entertaining.
Despite these moments, Rachel’s undeniable talent in the kitchen and entertaining confessional could be a welcome addition to future seasons ofBelow Deck. While Chef Jono is currently on a redemption arc, Chef Rachel’s skills are definitely way better than the current chef aboard the Mustique. Additionally,Chef Nick Tatlock was a midseason hireonBelow Deckseason 11, and it might be more entertaining to give Chef Rachel another chance.
5Ashton Pienaar
Below Deck Seasons 6-7
Ashton Pienaar’s time onBelow Deckstarted strong, but his fall from grace cemented his villain status. He first appeared as a deckhand inBelow Deckseason 6, where he survived a near-fatal accident after being dragged into the water by a tow line. After the event, he earned the bosun position in season 7. However, his behavior took a controversial turn during season 7, cementing his reputation as a villain. His actions, including a notorious incident whereAshton aggressively confronted Chief Stew Kate Chastain, shocked the crew. Despite his contentious behavior, Ashton’s return to the show could bring a compelling mix of personal improvement and drama– he could benefit from a redemption arc. Ashton is a complex person and may have done some growing up in the past few years that would make him a good cast member again.
4João Franco
Below Deck Mediterranean Seasons 3-4 And Below Deck Down Under Season 2
João Franco quickly established himself as a skilled deckhand with ambitions of climbing the yachting ranks in theBelow Deckfranchise, including time on bothBelow Deck Sailing YachtandBelow Deck Mediterranean. However, João didn’t escape the villain reputation. His aggressive and often condescending attitude towards fellow crew members, especially women, was frustrating and unacceptable. Notably, his volatile interactions with Hannah Ferrier and Brooke Laughton highlighted his struggle with anger management and respect for colleagues. Despite these issues,João’s journey also showcased moments of personal growthand redemption. Eventually, he was promoted to bosun, and he became mature and professional. He’s a polarizing figure, but João’s presence in future seasons would be welcome. Maybe he could evenreplaceBosun Ian Maclean onBelow Deck Mediterraneanseason 9 if he gets fired by Captain Sandy Yawn.
3Ben Willoughby
Ben was a contentious figure inBelow Deckseasons 10 and 11. While he was a decent deckhand in season 10, his focus on Camille clouded his priorities. His villain status didn’t emerge until he was promoted to the bosun position in season 11. Ben proved himself to be a less-than-capable bosun after he constantly challenged Captain Kerry Titheradge’s decisions and led fellow deckhand Sunny with his inconsistent romantic advances. WhileBen said he wouldn’t work for Captain Kerry ever again, he could return as the bosun on another franchise. Perhaps his personality would jive more with Captain Sandy, who doesn’t have as much of a tendency to micromanage his crew. He grew significantly throughout season 11 and even continued to date Sunny after the show. Ben was a villain, but he deserves another chance.
2Kyle Viljoen
Below Deck Mediterranean Seasons 7-8
Initially joining the show as a stew,Kyle Viljoen quickly became a franchise villainbecause of his outspoken personality and willingness to confront fellow crew members. His sharp tongue and candid remarks often stirred tension, particularly with Chief Stew Natasha Webb.Kyle never backed away from the chance to stir the pot between Natalya Scudderand Tumi Mhlongo, leading to an intense rivalry lasting the entire charter season. Despite his antagonistic persona, Kyle’s return toBelow Deckwould bring an undeniable element of entertainment and unpredictability. His ability to evoke strong reactions—both positive and negative—ensures made him a perennially memorable character. This dynamic, combined with his decently professional competency and flair for dramatic flair, makes a compelling case for his return. He could be a fun and frustrating addition to future seasons ofBelow Deck.
1Lexi Wilson
Below Deck Mediterranean Season 6
Lexi Wilson’s stint onBelow Deck Mediterraneanseason 6 was marked by her confrontational demeanor and contentious interactions with crew members, especially Katie Flood. Her clashes often escalated into heated arguments, creating significant tension and a general sense of unpopularity onboard. For instance, her feud with Kate over service standards became a central storyline, showcasing Lexi’s combative approach. Lexi also had issues with her family during the charter season, adding to her problems onboard.
Despite her divisive role as a villain,Lexi’s presence was pretty entertaining. Her outbursts and wild behavior were captivating, providing the drama thatBelow Deckis known for. Bringing Lexi back could offer a chance for a redemption arc and professional growth, allowing her to address past behaviors and turn over a new leaf. Unfortunately, Lexi’s return is unlikely. She’s given up yachting since appearing on the show and is largely off the grid, keeping her personal life under wraps after her appearance in theBelow Deckfranchise.
Below Deck Mediterraneanairs Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo and streams afterward on Peacock.
Below Deck
Below Deck is a popular reality TV franchise that focuses on a group of crew members as they work on luxurious yachts and cater to their client’s needs. After the original series proved to be a success, Bravo developed a handful of spinoff shows including Below Deck Selling Yacht, Below Deck Adventure, Below Deck Down Under, and Below Deck Mediterranean.
