Below Deck Down Under’supcoming third season will bring back several beloved yachties, but one series staple is absent. Chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph andDeckhand Harry Van Vlietare set to return for their second charter season alongside Captain Jason Chambers. Season 3 brings the departure of Chief Stew Aesha Scott, who had worked seamlessly alongside Captain Jason for the show’s entire run. The show thrived during Aesha’s tenure, even receiving an Emmy nomination. But I’m convinced the show will continue to succeed without her, with season 3 possibly being its best yet.
Aesha made her debut as a stew onBelow Deck Mediterraneanbefore transitioning toBelow Deck Down Under. Her return to the Med in season 9 as the Mustique’s Chief Stew prompted rumors she was leavingDown Under, and now there are signs she’s taking her career in a different direction entirely. However, Captain Jason’s team will be in good hands even without Aesha.Her replacement, Lara Rigby,boasts impressive yachting experience and a stern approach to leadership. While Lara will have to work hard to prove herself worthy of Aesha’s role, I think the change was necessary.
Below Deck Down Under Needed New Blood
Aesha’s Absence Takes The Show In A New Direction
Despite rumors of Aesha’s departure, many fans held out hope for her return until theBelow Deck Down Underseason 3trailer confirmed her absence. It’s hard to imagine the show without Aesha, but I’m convinced it was a good decision to bring Lara aboard instead. While Aesha was fun, entertaining, and always cheerful, her team sometimes took advantage of her friendliness. Her sense of humor was, at times, immature, making her seem unprofessional. After the events of season 2, the show needs a new start with a leader who runs a tight ship.
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Below Deck Down Underseason 2 experienced a midseason cast shakeup after Bosun Luke Jones was fired for sexual misconduct. The entire team’s handling of the situation was commendable, from Aesha’s warning that something was amiss to production stepping in to stop a potential assault to Captain Jason’s swift decision to terminate Luke. However,I’m convinced the events of season 2 prove thatBelow Deck Down Underneeds a refresh.
In addition to the emotional toll, the firing of Luke and Stew Laura Bileskane at the same time left Aesha and her crew shorthanded.
Last season was difficult for Aesha, and it may have contributed to her desire to focus her attention elsewhere. In addition to the emotional toll, the firing of Luke and Stew Laura Bileskane at the same time left Aesha and her crew shorthanded. She should leave before she gets burnt out. I believe Lara will refocus the crew and set an authoritative tone.After a highly acclaimed but exhausting season, a fresh start for the yachties is a good idea.
Aesha Is Clearly Putting Yachting On The Backburner
She’s Focusing On Her Merchandise And Wedding
While herBelow Deckfuture is up in the air, Aesha has plenty to keep her busy outside of yachting. She’s gradually been shifting her attention to the retail market and poured her energy into the launch of her alcoholic coconut water brand, Drop.Aesha also began selling merchandise emblazoned with her signature catchphrases.Her time onBelow Deckhas set her up for success, and her recent shift toward marketing suggests she’s devoting less time to yachting.
Aesha may also be ready to slow down and focus on her personal life. She’s preparing for her upcoming nuptials with Scott Dobson, to whom she got engaged in 2024. Aesha and Scott recently bought a home together in New Zealand after previously living in a converted ambulance. In addition, she welcomed a niece in 2024. After years of hard work and constant travel, I’m certainAesha deserves to settle downand spend quality time with her loved ones.
The Below Deck Down Under Season 3 Trailer Looks Better Than The Last Two Seasons Already
The New Crew Strikes The Perfect Balance Of Animosity And Romance
Below Deck Down Under’sseason 3 trailer proves the show can thrive without Aesha.For the first time, Captain Jason and his crew are leaving Australia for the African island of Seychelles.The trailer alludes to Lara’s insistence on precision amid accusations she’s a “control freak” and building tension between department heads will lead to a firing. However, not all the crew interactions are negative. The cast shakeup also promises to bring plenty of boatmances, with the yacht referred to as a “love boat.”
With all the drama ahead in season 3, Aesha’s absence barely registers. Although she made a lasting impact onBelow Deck Down Under, it’s time for a change. Cast shakeups are necessary to keep storylines from feeling stale, and it seems like the upcoming season will be recharged and full of new energy. While Aesha was a wonderful Chief Stew, I’m sure her departure will allow the show to continue thriving as it delves into new, unexpected territory.
Below Deck Down Underseason 3 premieres on Monday, February 3 on Bravo.
