‘Deadliest Catch’ Star Todd Meadows Dies Tragically At Sea

Deckhand Todd Meadows, who worked aboard the Aleutian Lady ship featured in “Deadliest Catch,” died at sea at the age of 25.

“Deadliest Catch” star Captain Rick Shelford announced the tragic news March 2 on Facebook.

“February 25, 2026 was the most tragic day in the history of the Aleutian Lady on the Bering Sea,” he wrote.

“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.”

Sources close to the situation told TMZ that Meadows died amid filming in an accident tied to fishing. It’s unclear if the tragedy unfolded while cameras were rolling.

Sources said producers received a memo letting them know about the news and offering grief resources after the horrifying incident, according to TMZ.

A Discovery Channel spokesperson issued a statement to the outlet. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Todd Meadows. 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,” they said.

Shelford memorialized Meadows by emphasizing that he was a hard-working, loving family man.

“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 wrote.

🕊️ “Deadliest Catch” deckhand Todd Meadows has died at 25.

Exclusive details: https://t.co/1nTpakonSR pic.twitter.com/5QGlc0r5IJ

— TMZ (@TMZ) March 2, 2026

“Right now, our hearts are broken in a way that words can’t fully express.”

Shelford continued, “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 signed off by writing, “Rest easy brother, till we meet again.” (RELATED: REPORT: Russian Businessman Umar Dzhabrailov Dead By Apparent Suicide)

It’s unclear if an investigation will be launched.