Former Below Deck Star Files $850 Million Lawsuit Against NBCUniversal
Emile Kotze, who appeared as a professional deckhand on season three of Bravo's reality series Below Deck in 2015, has launched a staggering $850 million lawsuit against NBCUniversal. The legal action accuses the media giant of fostering a hostile work environment filled with sexual harassment, manipulation, and dangerous conditions, allegedly engineered to boost television ratings.
Allegations of Orchestrated Showmance and Harassment
In an amended complaint filed in New York federal court in October and obtained by The Independent, Kotze, now 34, claims that NBCUniversal promised him a career-enhancing documentary-style experience but instead subjected him to exploitation. He alleges that producers orchestrated a showmance with co-star Raquel "Rocky" Dakota, despite his initial hesitation. Kotze stated he did not join the show for a fling but was pressured by producers who plied him with alcohol and encouraged him to make a move on camera.
One specific incident detailed in the lawsuit involves producers directing Kotze to use a cheesy pickup line on Dakota while filming, which left him feeling extremely uncomfortable. This footage was later used out of context to portray him as a lust-driven youth, according to the complaint.
Post-Production Grievances and Financial Demands
Kotze further alleges that NBCUniversal's poor treatment continued after filming wrapped. He claims the network deceptively edited footage to defame him, misappropriated his likeness for commercial gain without consent, and engaged in a cover-up and retaliation campaign when he sought redress. The lawsuit seeks damages ranging from $633 million to $850 million, including $123 million for lost future earnings due to his destroyed yachting career, at least $10 million for emotional distress, and $500 million in punitive damages reflecting NBCUniversal's wealth.
Additionally, Kotze demands that NBCUniversal remove any intimate images of him from all platforms, cease distribution of season three episodes containing defamatory content, and issue a public statement or disclaimer clarifying manipulated portrayals.
Background on Below Deck and Its Impact
Below Deck first premiered on Bravo in 2013 and has since become a popular franchise, with its most recent season concluding in September. The series, which follows the behind-the-scenes drama of luxury superyacht crews, is confirmed to return for season 13 this year and has spawned multiple spinoffs, including Below Deck Mediterranean, Sailing Yacht, Down Under, and Adventure. Kotze's lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about workplace ethics in reality television production.
