‘Deadliest Catch’ Star Todd Meadows’ Cause of Death Unveiled

Mo. Basuony

Published: April 9, 2026 1:10 PM ET

‘Deadliest Catch’ Star Todd Meadows’ Cause of Death Unveiled

Details about the death of Todd Meadows, a deckhand shown on Deadliest Catch, have been unveiled. He was 25 when he died in February while working at sea.

Circumstances and official findings

Meadows fell into the ocean while fishing aboard the Aleutian Lady. The incident occurred in the Bering Sea, a notoriously dangerous region.

TMZ obtained Meadows’ death certificate. It lists the cause as drowning with probable hypothermia and submersion in cold water.

The manner of death was ruled accidental. Filmogaz.com contacted the Alaska Department of Health and Warner Bros. Discovery for comment.

Vessel and location

The Aleutian Lady is a crab fishing boat featured on the series. The vessel was working in waters between Alaska and Russia.

The Bering Sea draws commercial fisheries due to its diverse marine life. It is also known for severe weather and cold temperatures.

Crew response

Captain Rick Shelford posted a social media message on March 2 mourning Meadows. He described the crew’s grief and said Meadows became like family.

Shelford noted Meadows earned quick respect through hard work. He also referenced Meadows’ laughter and the legacy he leaves for his children.

Filming and recorded footage

Costar and bunkmate Trey John Green III told Us Weekly the incident was captured on camera. He said a deck cam records continuously.

Green said Discovery had concluded principal filming, but a producer and deck cam operator had been aboard. They had been filming for Season 22 for about two months.