‘Deadliest Catch’ Star Dead at 25 Following ‘Tragic’ Incident While Fishing in the Bering Sea

Deadliest Catch star Todd Meadows has died, Captain Rick Shelford announced on Facebook on Monday, March 2.

“February 25, 2026 was the most tragic day in the history of the Aleutian Lady on the Bering Sea,” he wrote. “We lost our brother, Todd Meadows.”

“Todd was the newest member of our crew, he quickly became family. His love for fishing and his strong work ethic earned everyone’s respect right away. His smile was contagious, and the sound of his laughter coming up the wheelhouse stairs or over the deck hailer is something we will carry with us always,” Shelford continued.

“Todd’s love for his children, his family, and his life was evident in everything he did. He worked hard, loved deeply, and brought joy to those around him,” he added. “Right now, our hearts are broken in a way that words can’t fully express.”

“We ask that you lift Todd’s children and family in prayer and keep them in your thoughts as they face the days ahead without him. Todd will forever be part of this boat, this crew, and this brotherhood. Though we lost him far too soon, his legacy will live on through his children and in every memory we carry of him,” he concluded. “Rest easy brother, till we meet again.”

Sources told TMZ the rookie deckhand died while filming the Discovery channel fishing show, but it was unclear if the moment was caught on tape.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Todd Meadows,” the network told the outlet ina statement. “This is a devastating loss, and our hearts are with his loved ones, his crewmates, and the entire fishing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

Meadows was 25.