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'Below Deck': Malia demotes Pete for disrespecting women, fans say 'they are going way too hard' on him

Many fans thought he was being treated harshly and that Malia was a terrible boss for demoting him from lead deck position for his behavior with the rest of the crew

Bravo severed ties with Pete Hunziker after he posted offensive, racial comments on social media. The network announced that it would heavily edit out his scenes but he continues to be a part of 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 5. 

Pete has not only managed to put off people online but on the yacht as well. New joinee Christine 'Bugsy' Drake felt "threatened" by Pete's behavior and was visibly concerned about his choice of words for women. She took it up with Captain Sandy Yawn, following which Pete was given a warning by both her and Malia White.  

Ever since he was asked to keep his attitude in check and the way he talks about women, Pete shut down. He kept quiet and only focused on getting the work done. And that had fans change their mind. Many thought he was being treated harshly and that Malia was a terrible boss for demoting him from lead deck position for his behavior with the rest of the crew. 

"Malia! You’re great at your deck duties but you’re a TERRIBLE manager and should NOT be speaking about Pete’s issues with the rest of the crew!!! OMG! That’s Manager 101 policies! Really?!?!?! #BelowDeckMed," a fan commented, while another shared: "#BelowDeckMediterranean #BelowDeckMed Pete's being professional Maila. Even you should know that."

"#BelowDeckMediterranean #BelowDeckMed Show us what you got Professional Pete. If anything, Give your bosun a lesson or two..... but not in that way," a user shared. "Not a fan of Pete... but it seems like he’s realized his mistakes and is trying to make up for it #BelowDeckMed," another pointed out. "They are going way too hard on Pete. I’ve heard other guys say way worse. #BelowDeckMed," a user posted. 

Even though Pete has been polite after being given ultimatums (Malia specifically asked him to show respect to the women on the crew who are also in positions of power), his past acts should be enough for viewers to not give him a clean chit. Previously, he was sexting with Lara Flumiani, ex-crew member, and writing derogatory messages to her. Here's hoping Pete is able to keep a check on his behavior and is able to talk to women on and off the yacht with respect.

Catch all the new episodes of 'Below Deck Mediterranean' on Bravo every Monday.