A respected and beloved crew member who starred in the American TV show Deadliest Catch has died in a “fishing-related” incident while filming a new season.
Todd Meadows was the newest member working on the fishing vessel Aleutian Lady, trawling for crabs on the Bering Sea for the 22nd season of the Discovery Channel show, when he died aged 25 on February 25.
His death was confirmed by one of his co-stars, Captain Rick Shelford, who on Tuesday posted a heartbreaking statement on his Facebook page.
Captain Shelford called his unexpected death as the “most tragic day” in the history of the ship’s expeditions, with his family, friends and TV crew’s hearts “broken in a way that words can’t fully express”.
“Todd was the newest member of our crew, he quickly became family,” he wrote.
“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.
“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.”
Captain Shelford asked fans to keep Meadows’ family in their thoughts as they experience their life without a father, husband and brother.
“Todd will forever be part of this boat, this crew and this brotherhood,” he continued.
“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.”
While no cause of death has been confirmed, a source told TMZ that Meadows died during a “fishing-related” incident while cameras were rolling.
It is not clear if any of the footage was captured on camera.
Filming for the current series has been halted. A GoFundMe has been set up for Meadows’ wife and three little boys.
Fundraiser Paige Knutson has asked the globe to donate what they can with the money going directly towards honouring his life and making sure his children are cared for.
“(Todd) left us far too soon while doing what he loved,” Ms Knutson wrote.
“He was a determined dad to three amazing little boys who were his entire world. Everything he did was for them — their smiles, their futures and the memories they will carry with them.
“If you are unable to give, please keep our family in your prayers and his name alive like he wanted.”
As of Tuesday afternoon, more than $22,000 has been raised.
Meadows death isn’t the first for the series, which premiered in 2005.
Other stars who died while working on the show include Nick McGlashan, Nick Mavar, Mahlon Reyes and Blake Painter.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.perthnow.com.au ’
