Todd Meadows, one of the stars of the popular fishing reality show “Deadliest Catch,” has died. He was 25 years old.
Fellow “Deadliest Catch” star Captain Rick Shelford confirmed Meadows’ death in an emotional Facebook post Sunday. It is reported that he passed away on February 25th.
“February 25, 2026 was the most tragic day in the history of the Lady of the Aleutian Islands of the Bering Sea,” Shelford began. “We lost our brother Todd Meadows.”
“Todd was a new member of our crew and quickly became part of the family. His love of fishing and strong work ethic quickly earned everyone’s respect,” he continued.
Shelford further wrote that the “Deadliest Catch” star’s “smile is contagious” and that “his laugh, heard across the wheelhouse steps and deck calls, is something we will always carry with us.”
“Todd’s love for his children, his family, and his life was evident in everything he did,” Shelford continued with four photos of Meadows. “He worked hard, loved deeply and brought joy to those around him. Our hearts are now broken beyond words.”
After asking fans to “please keep Todd’s children and family in your prayers and keep them in your thoughts,” Meadows said, “They will forever be a part of this ship, this crew, and this brotherhood.”
“We lost him too soon, but his legacy will live on through his children and in all the memories we hold of him,” Shelford concluded. “Nii-san, don’t worry, until we meet again.”
The cause of death has not been confirmed, but sources told TMZ that Meadows died in a “fishing-related” accident while the “Worst Catch” cameras were rolling.
However, the newspaper noted that it was unclear whether Meadows’ death was recorded on tape.
Meanwhile, a Discovery Channel spokesperson further confirmed Meadows’ death in a statement to TMZ.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Todd Meadows,” the network said in a statement. “This is a devastating loss and our hearts are with his loved ones, his crew and the entire fishing community at this incredibly difficult time.”
“Deadliest Catch” has aired on Discovery Channel since its premiere in April 2025. The latest season of the reality show, Season 25, premiered in August 2025.
A representative for Discovery Channel did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment. A GoFundMe for Meadows has since been set up in his honor.
“Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly to honoring his life and ensuring that his sons are cared for the way he would have loved to be cared for,” a message on the fundraising page reads. “If you are unable to donate, please keep our family in your prayers and keep his name alive as he would have liked.”
Other Deadliest Catch stars who have passed away in recent years include Nick McGlashan, Nick Maver, Marlon Reyes and Blake Painter.
