Star of Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch - Todd Meadows - has died at 25

Deckhand on reality TV show Deadliest Catch, Todd Meadows, has died at the age of 25, his Discovery Channel co-star has confirmed. Captain Rick Shelford wrote a lengthy tribute to Todd on Monday (March 3) revealing he had died on February 25.

Deadliest Catch is an American reality show following crab fishermen aboard fishing vessels in the Bering Sea during the Alaskan king crab and snow crab fishing seasons. The show's title reflects the high risk of injury or death associated with this line of work.

Describing Todd as ‘family’, Captain Rick wrote on Facebook: “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.

“Todd was the newest member of our crew, he quickly became family. 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.”

Referencing Todd’s loved ones, Captain Rick went on: “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. We ask that you lift Todd’s children and family in prayer and keep them in your thoughts as they face the days ahead without him.”

The post also featured several photos of Todd at work. Captain Rick concluded: “Todd will forever be part of this boat, this crew, and this brotherhood. 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.”

No official cause of death has been released, however TMZ reported that Todd died during a fishing-related incident that occurred while filming Deadliest Catch. In a statement to the People website, a Discovery Channel spokesperson said: "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 campaign has also been launched for the Meadows’ family which has already raised $24,000 of the $28,000 target. The statement on the page reads: “We are heartbroken to share the sudden passing of Todd Morgan Meadows, a beloved 25-year-old father, son, brother and friend ,who left us far too soon while doing what he loved — crabbing out on Alaskan waters.

“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. This unimaginable loss has left his children without their father, his parents without their son, his siblings without their brother and his family broken.”