Elliot Neese was forced to leave Deadliest Catch to battle his personal addictions
Elliott Neese, a ship captain in season 11, left the show unexpectedly, leaving first mate Jeff Folk in charge. He later revealed he’d entered rehab for narcotics addiction in 2015. Despite efforts by ‘Deadliest Catch’ producer Decker Watson, Neese couldn’t be persuaded to return to the show in 2017.
The moon can have a big effect on the ship’s captains
Some might underestimate the moon’s impact on Earth, but sea captains understand its influence on tides due to gravitational pull. A full moon means stronger tides, making it challenging for boats. In 2018, during a supermoon, some captains were scared of the water, but thankfully, no one was seriously harmed.
Environmental changes are having big effects on the safety of the crew
Environmental changes are shaking up ‘Deadliest Catch.’ Rising water temperatures are pushing crabs to new, riskier areas. Fishing crews chase them into stormier waters, going deeper and farther from help. These changes impact everyone on the show, though it avoids taking sides in the environmental debate.
There have been accusations that Deadliest Catch scripts some of the drama
‘Deadliest Catch’ isn’t always a one-take show. Some scenes get multiple retakes. While the dangerous parts are real, other scenes are rehearsed. This may make the reality of the show less authentic. There are even claims that some of the drama is scripted for more excitement, like in other reality TV.
Deadliest Catch might have created an economic problem in Alaska
While ‘Deadliest Catch’ fishermen are doing well, other fishers are suffering. The show’s funding for some ships makes it hard for the rest. Authorities and fishers say it’s hurting their business. It’s tough work, and they feel like they’re earning very little. This competition has some people thinking Alaska wants the show gone.
More than one narrator is used depending where Deadliest Catch is show around the world
While Mike Rowe narrates the US version of ‘Deadliest Catch,’ international audiences hear different voices. The UK has Bill Petrie, and Malaysia has Nasar Bilal Khan. Showrunners aimed to make the show more relatable by using narrators with familiar accents for each region. The strategy seems to have worked, as ‘Deadliest Catch’ is now popular worldwide.