Below Deck has 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 Mediterranean season 9 is 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 that Below Deck should definitely bring back for another season.
1.Rachel 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 on Below 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 of Below 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 hire on Below Deck season 11, and it might be more entertaining to give Chef Rachel another chance.
2.Ashton Pienaar
Below Deck Seasons 6-7
Ashton Pienaar’s time on Below Deck started strong, but his fall from grace cemented his villain status. He first appeared as a deckhand in Below Deck season 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 where Ashton 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.
3.Ben Willoughby
Below Deck Season 11
Ben was a contentious figure in Below Deck seasons 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. While Ben 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.
4.Lexi Wilson
Below Deck Mediterranean Season 6
Lexi Wilson’s stint on Below Deck Mediterranean season 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 that Below Deck is 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 the Below Deck franchise.
