‘Below Deck Med’: Bravo Continues to Fire Cast Members for Racism as Peter Hunziker Is Next to Be Axed
In a sweeping move, Bravo is continuing to dismiss cast members for racism. Below Deck Mediterranean deckhand Peter Hunziker has been fired, according to Bravo and production company 51 Minds.
Hunziker is a new cast member, only appearing for three episodes thus far. But producers now plan to minimize his storyline on the series after discovering a racist post.
“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 for subsequent episodes,” Bravo shared in a statement.
Hunziker had a relatively rocky start this season. He continued to refer to bosun Malia White as “sweetie” or “sweetheart.” Plus she expressed concern with his ability to learn and take direction. Hunziker made it known early in the season he was a boat captain.
Bravo is taking racism seriously
The network opened the dialog about racism in the wake of George Floyd’s death and subsequent protests. Executive producer Andy Cohen hosted a series of discussions during Watch What Happens Live, but is doing more than talking.
In a shocking move, the network first fired four cast members from Vanderpump Rules for racist actions. Stassi Schroeder and Kristen Doute, both original cast members, were dismissed for reporting former cast member Faith Stowers to the police for crimes she did not commit. Also fired were Max Boyens and Brett Caprioni. Boyens and Caprioni were previously admonished for racist tweets early in the season.
However, the two were absolved of their actions. They both apologized and Lisa Vanderpump offered a stern statement. However, until recently, no further action was taken against the two.
Fans are calling for others to be fired
The network may not be finished with housecleaning. Fans and a former Vanderpump Rules cast member is calling for Jax Taylor to also be fired. Fans found racist tweets issued by Taylor and are demanding that he is also terminated from the series. Taylor was also accused of dragging his feet when it came to firing the homophobic pastor who was supposed to officiate his wedding.
Billie Lee who appeared on the series also asked Bravo to remove him from the cast. Lee, who is transgender, asserts that Taylor refused to film with her. “What about Jax Taylor?” Lee asked. “He refused to film with me because I was trans and called him out on his white privilege. Stop celebrating his disgusting actions.”
Another Bravo personality who may be concerned is Kathryn Dennis from Southern Charm. She and a local radio host got into an online argument, but then Dennis used a monkey emoji to respond. The radio host is African American and shared the exchange on social media. Dennis later apologized but fans were furious. Dennis’ former employer also distanced themselves from Dennis to protect the company’s brand.
“As a minority-owned business, Gwynn’s and our employees are dedicated to serving all members of our community,” according to Gwynn’s post on Instagram. “Indisputably, Kathyrn Dennis’ comments and statements of Tamika Gadsen do no reflect the values of the Gwynn’s brand. Her previous affiliation as a brand ambassador was periodic and on a contract basis. We stand in unity with people of color and with causes that fight to end injustices.”
