Former Below Deck cast member Emile Kotze has launched a major lawsuit against producers and broadcaster NBCUniversal.
Kotze seeks $850 million in damages. He claims production staff subjected him to emotional harm and reputational damage during filming.
The lawsuit targets the producers behind Below Deck, along with Bravo and parent company NBCUniversal.
Allegations Include Harassment, Editing Claims and Producer Pressure
Kotze appeared in Season 3 of Below Deck, filmed more than a decade ago. He now alleges producers created an unsafe filming environment.
According to court filings, Kotze claims producers pressured him into a romantic storyline with co-star Raquel ‘Rocky’ Dakota.
He also alleges staff encouraged excessive drinking and placed him in humiliating situations for entertainment value.
Kotze argues that edited footage portrayed him unfairly. He claims producers shaped a misleading image that damaged his reputation worldwide.
He says the programme depicted him as immature, incompetent and sexually aggressive.
Legal Battle Continues After Motion to Dismiss Fails
A judge has reportedly denied NBCUniversal’s request to dismiss the case outright.
That decision allows the lawsuit to continue through the legal process.
NBCUniversal strongly disputes the allegations. The company argues the claims fall outside the legal time limit.
Season 3 aired more than 11 years ago. NBCUniversal believes the statute of limitations prevents the case from moving forward.
The media company also argues that editing decisions fall under creative and editorial rights.
Former Cast Member Claims Career Damage in Yachting Industry
Kotze previously stated that his appearance on Below Deck harmed his professional future.
He claims the superyacht yachting industry distanced itself from him after the season aired.
According to the lawsuit, he experienced long-term emotional distress following the programme.
Court documents reportedly reference anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress linked to his television experience.
Below Deck Season 3 Filmed Aboard Trinity Superyacht
Season 3 of Below Deck was filmed aboard the 49-metre yacht Stay Salty. She was renamed Eros for the show
The yacht now sails under the name Bad Romance V.
Shipbuilder Trinity Yachts delivered the vessel in 2008.
The yacht became one of the most recognisable charter vessels featured in the franchise.
Background on Emile Kotze’s Yachting Career
Born in South Africa, Kotze entered the yachting industry in his early twenties.
He originally travelled to the United States expecting to work in sales research.
However, he discovered opportunities in professional yachting after meeting a captain who introduced him to the industry.
He later worked as a deckhand and mate on vessels operating worldwide.
Photo Credit: Virginia Sherwood/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty