Deadliest Catch star Todd Meadows has died. He was 25.
“February 25, 2026, was the most tragic day in the history of the Aleutian lady on the Bering Sea. We lost our brother, Todd Meadows,” Captain Rick Shelford wrote via Facebook on Monday, March 1, confirming Meadows’ death.
Sources told TMZ that Meadows’ death was the result of a “fishing-related” incident that happened while filming. It’s unclear if cameras captured the incident. A memo was reportedly sent to producers informing them of the fatal accident and providing resources for any cast and crew who are grieving.
“Todd was the newest member of our crew, he quickly became family,” Shelford continued. “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. Right now, our hearts are broken in a way that words can’t fully express.”
Shelford asked fans to “lift Todd’s children and family in prayer and keep them in your thoughts” as they mourn his sudden death.
“Todd will forever be part of this boat, this crew, and this brotherhood,” he concluded. “Though we lost him far too soon, his legacy will live on through his children and in every memory we carry of him. Rest easy brother, till we meet again.”
A spokesperson for Discovery Channel also spoke out in the wake of Meadows’ untimely death, telling TMZ in a statement, “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.”
A GoFundMe has since been launched in his honor, noting that he died doing what he loved: “crabbing out on Alaskan waters.” As of March 2, it has raised more than $12K of a $13K goal. More than 120 donations have poured in, with the top being $1,000.
“He was a determined dad to three amazing little boys who were his entire world,” the description stated. “Everything he did was for them — their smiles, their futures, and the memories they will carry with them.”
It was noted that any donation — “no matter the size” — will help to “support his three boys, assist with funeral expenses and help ease the financial burden in the months ahead.”
Deadliest Catch became a hit after first airing on the Discovery Channel in April 2005, giving a first-hand look aboard fishing boats in the Bering Sea during the Alaskan king crab and Opilio crab fishing seasons. The show has earned 16 Emmy Awards.
Production on Season 21 concluded filming in late 2024 and premiered on Discovery and Max in August 2025.
