Captain Kerry Shocks Fans by Criticizing Ben’s Surprising Moves on ‘Below Deck’

Below Deck‘s Captain Kerry Titheradge was blindsided to learn about Ben Willoughby’s jabs until he caught season 11. His response? Far from pleased.

In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Kerry expressed his dismay, labeling Ben’s attitude as “very disappointing.” “I don’t get it,” he mentioned, noting that Ben’s ex Sunny Marquis once worked for him at his Florida-based company, and Ben had even sought employment there. Despite their cordial history, things turned sour.

Kerry initially aimed to let bygones be bygones concerning season 11 friction. “I’m all for giving second chances,” he remarked, highlighting Ben’s quest for guidance and job opportunities. However, a comment from Kerry set Ben off course. Kerry remarked, “It seems he thought he was the star and aimed to undermine me, which didn’t hold any weight. It was genuinely disappointing.”

As season 12 rolled in without Ben, Kerry commented on the repercussions of Ben’s actions. “His antics impacted his professional prospects significantly. Acting out against a captain isn’t advisable TV show or otherwise. Other captains would surely think twice before trusting him. Ego aside, Ben’s great at his job, but it clouded his judgment.”

Season 11 witnessed Ben’s transition from lead deckhand to bosun after Jared Woodin’s departure, a decision made by Kerry. Ben, discussing his evolving rapport with Kerry, disclosed in March 2024, “Captain Kerry has a rather military approach it’s authority-driven. That was a learning phase for me. It clashes with my leadership style, so expect some friction.” Media updates echoed Ben’s discontent.

Taking to social media, Ben hinted at his discontent, “I once loved Below Deck. There’s just too much unseen. I’m torn between revealing the truth or moving past it.” During an April 2024 fan Q&A on Instagram, he added, “I’m not enjoying this season due to numerous factors. Under the current circumstances, St. David feels undesirable.”

Ben’s public remarks came as a “slap in the face,” according to Kerry. “I could’ve dismissed him purely on his ego,” Kerry revealed. “He chose his path post-facto, and that’s on him.”

Kerry pointed out that no apology had been forthcoming from Ben. “No apologies have reached my ears, and he dragged Sunny into the muddled waters too. Airing grievances isn’t the solution though I had ample grounds to fire him throughout the season, I chose to extend opportunities. At one season’s end, I even engaged him,” Kerry explained, recalling his request to Ben, “Hey, mate, we’re conducting a cabin inspection. Ensure they’re all set. What viewers didn’t know was I charged him to stress the task’s importance to the crew.”

Kerry elaborated, “Cabin inspections are a legal mandate and part of my responsibilities. I delayed them to allow the team to adapt. I tasked him with conveying their significance, but he alone failed to act.”

Although Ben missed season 12, drama was far from absent for Kerry. He tantalizingly shared, “We faced several hurdles. Testing guests and challenging crew dynamics necessitated adjustments as we sailed through four countries. A historical five-day charter weighed heavily on the team. Despite challenges, they united and triumphed in the end.”

Below Deck continues to entertain audiences on Bravo every Monday at 8 p.m. ET, with new episodes streaming the next day on Peacock.