Peter “Pete” Hunziker, a former deckhand on Below Deck Mediterranean season 5, became a controversial figure due to his on-screen behavior and, more significantly, a racist social media post that led to his swift dismissal from the show. While his time on the yachting reality series was short-lived, the repercussions of his actions continue to be a point of discussion among fans. Many viewers are still curious about the specifics of the incident that triggered such a strong reaction from Bravo and the production team. This article delves into the controversy, focusing on the meme that resulted in Pete’s firing and the broader context of his time on Below Deck Med.
Pete’s Problematic Behavior on Below Deck Mediterranean
From the outset of Below Deck Med season 5, Pete struggled to endear himself to viewers. His interactions with the female crew members, particularly Bosun Malia White and Chief Stew Bugsy Drake, were often perceived as disrespectful and misogynistic. Despite being demoted from lead deckhand by Malia due to his patronizing attitude, Pete continued to act as if he was superior, creating friction within the deck team. His persistent and unwanted advances towards Bugsy, who clearly showed no interest, further solidified his image as problematic. While some, like stew Lara Flumiani, initially seemed to get along with him, and he formed a post-show friendship with stew Jessica More, his overall demeanor on the show raised eyebrows. However, it was an off-screen action that ultimately sealed his fate with Bravo.
Misogynistic Comments and Demotion
Pete’s interactions with Malia White were a recurring source of tension in season 5. He frequently addressed her as “sweetheart,” a term she found condescending given her position as his superior. This patronizing language, coupled with his general attitude, led Malia to demote him from lead deckhand, a decision that highlighted his lack of respect for the hierarchy and for female authority figures in the workplace. This demotion was an early indicator of Pete’s problematic behavior, foreshadowing the more serious controversy to come.
The Racist Meme and Immediate Firing
The turning point in Pete Hunziker’s Below Deck career came in June 2020, while season 5 of Below Deck Mediterranean was airing. A racist and misogynistic meme that he had posted on his Instagram account resurfaced online, sparking immediate outrage. The nature of the meme was widely condemned as offensive and unacceptable. Although the original article does not describe the meme in detail, it is understood to have contained racist imagery and text that promoted harmful stereotypes.
Bravo and 51 Minds, the production company behind the Below Deck franchise, reacted swiftly and decisively. Within a short time of the meme gaining traction online, they announced Pete’s termination. A statement posted on Bravo’s Instagram account explicitly cited the racist post as the reason for his firing: “Peter Hunziker of ‘Below Deck Mediterranean’ has been terminated for his racist post. Bravo and 51 Minds are editing the show to minimize his appearance on subsequent episodes.” This prompt action demonstrated the network’s zero-tolerance policy towards racism and their commitment to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment, at least publicly.
Bravo’s Decisive Action
Bravo’s immediate firing of Pete Hunziker sent a strong message. While some episodes featuring Pete had already aired and couldn’t be removed, the network took steps to minimize his presence in subsequent episodes. This editing decision, though likely complex to implement mid-season, aimed to distance the show from his offensive behavior and reassure viewers that such actions would not be tolerated. The comment sections on Bravo’s social media were largely supportive of the firing, with many fans applauding the network’s swift response.
Pete’s Apology and the Aftermath
Following his firing and the widespread criticism, Pete issued a public apology approximately six weeks after the incident. In his Instagram post, he acknowledged reposting a meme that he now recognized as offensive. He stated, “A little over 3 months ago someone sent me a meme on social media and I thoughtlessly reposted it […] I now realize how painful the imagery and symbolism is and, upon deeper consideration, I realize that the implicit bias that exists in the brief text written in the meme is offensive.” He further expressed remorse to anyone he had hurt or offended, claiming to support equal rights for all.
Taking Accountability?
While Pete’s apology was a step towards acknowledging his mistake, it did not pave the way for a return to the Below Deck franchise. He was notably absent from the season 5 reunion, and it became clear that his association with Bravo was permanently severed. The network likely deemed the damage to his reputation and the potential viewer backlash too significant to consider any future involvement.
What Was the Meme Pete Hunziker Posted?
Although the specific content of the meme is not explicitly described in the original article, reports and discussions online at the time indicated it was a deeply offensive and racist image. Based on the context of the firing and the strong condemnation, it can be inferred that the meme likely employed racist stereotypes and imagery targeting a specific racial or ethnic group. It’s probable the meme perpetuated harmful and discriminatory ideas, which is why it triggered such a strong and negative reaction, leading to Bravo’s swift action. The lack of detailed description in the original article might be intentional, to avoid further распространение (dissemination) of the offensive content. However, the severity of the consequences makes it clear that the meme was not just mildly insensitive, but rather overtly racist and unacceptable.
Pete’s Life After Below Deck Med
Since his controversial exit from Below Deck Mediterranean, Pete Hunziker has maintained a relatively low public profile, although he remains active on Instagram. He has reportedly continued to work in the maritime industry in Florida and appears to be spending more time with his family, particularly his son. In 2023, he disclosed experiencing some health issues related to his spine or back, receiving well wishes from former Below Deck Med costar Jessica More. He has also ventured into entrepreneurial activities, including a personal training program and an OnlyFans page, suggesting a shift in career direction away from reality television.
Moving On From Reality TV
Despite his efforts to move forward, it is highly unlikely that Pete Hunziker will ever return to the Below Deck franchise. The controversy surrounding his racist meme and the negative perception formed during his time on the show have likely closed the door on any future opportunities with Bravo. Even if he were offered a chance to return, it is questionable whether he would accept, given his new career paths and personal priorities. For viewers, Pete Hunziker remains a cautionary tale of the consequences of offensive social media posts and the importance of accountability, especially in the public eye.
Below Deck Mediterranean is available for streaming on Peacock.
Sources: Bravo/Instagram, People, Peter Hunziker/ Instagram
