‘Below Deck’ Season 11 bosun Ben Willoughby addresses backlash ahead of Bravo show finale
GRENADA, CARRIBEAN: As 'Below Deck' Season 11 comes to a close, Bosun Ben Willoughby has shared his strategies for handling criticism from fans. This season brought back familiar faces to the yachting world and new drama, romances, and other exciting developments.
Ben, who originally appeared in Season 10, returned this season and was promoted after Jared Woodin was fired in Episode 7. Since then, Ben has faced criticism from fans for various reasons during the season, including his remarks about relationships and age-shaming his coworkers.
Ben recently took to Instagram to share his approach to handling criticism, offering behind-the-scenes insights about the show. When a fan inquired about how he deals with the criticism he's facing this season, Ben disclosed his coping mechanisms.
“Ignorance is bliss. There’s [no] point getting upset on how you are portrayed, as long as you know your truths,” he wrote in his Instagram Story.
Ben expressed disappointment that some details were removed from the show during the editing process. He added, "I would put Xandi to [bed] every night out, nobody else would even bother with her once the booze took over… it’s these things we don’t see unfortunately, these are true character traits.”
Despite facing criticism, Ben mentioned in a different story that he does not regret his time on the Bravo show. “That’s who you are at that specific moment in time. Maybe course alterations perhaps in hindsight," he concluded.
Ben Willoughby clashes with captain Kerry Titheradge during ‘Below Deck’ Season 11 finale
Ben Willoughby and captain Kerry Titheradge have a confrontation during the finale of 'Below Deck'. The finale will feature a showdown between Ben and Captain Kerry, with Kerry threatening consequences for Ben's disrespect.
Captain Kerry will be seen angry about the state of Ben and Kyle’s cabin, saying it looks like a bomb went off. “Did you guys not take seriously inspection today? It’s just blatant disrespect,” he said in a preview.
The 'Below Deck' captain told the cast members, “I’ve shown both you guys respect. I’ve been out there and busting my f***ing ass to help you guys out. We’ve been down crew, and this is the way you say thank you?"
Kyle attempted to interrupt, only to have his argument swiftly dismissed. Captain Kerry then instructed the duo to return to their cabin and tidy up, cautioning them that any further disobedience would result in consequences.
‘Below Deck’ Season 11 star Ben Willoughby shares a close bond with co-stars Sunny Marquis and Kyle Stillie
Ben Willoughby of 'Below Deck' Season 11 has formed a strong bond with his co-stars Sunny Marquis and Kyle Stillie. As the end of the season approaches, Ben bids a touching farewell to Sunny and Kyle in a heartfelt photo.
Sharing a sweet goodbye post on his Instagram page, Ben expressed his gratitude for his time with his "Below Deck" castmates. In an Instagram post, Ben shares a heartfelt moment with Sunny and Kyle, showing the trio smiling and embracing each other.
"It’s never a goodbye, it’s a see ya when I’m looking at ya with these beauties! Deck out [...] Catch the finale of below deck season 11 tonight," he wrote in the caption of the Instagram post.
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Ben Willoughby reveals 'he used to Below Deck'
During the eleventh season of 'Below Deck,' Ben was notably active on social media, openly expressing his discontent with the portrayal of his character on the show.
Screenshots of Ben’s Instagram Stories, shared by Reddit user Teanailpolish, revealed his candid responses to fan inquiries regarding the season. Ben's response was cryptic when asked about a potential return to the show, expressing that he "used to love Below Deck."
He hinted that the production edit might have influenced his negative portrayal, noting that he had no control over how he was depicted. Ben made it explicit that he had no intention of returning to St David under similar circumstances. “I’m at a crossroads as to whether the truth needs to be told or I don’t need to let this consume me anymore," Ben shared.
'Below Deck' Season 11 finale is now airing on Bravo.
