Former Below Deck star Emile Kotze has taken legal action against NBCUniversal and the production team behind the popular reality show, alleging a range of grievances during his time on the series. Kotze, a yacht deckhand from season three, has filed a federal lawsuit claiming he endured a hostile work environment that included sexual harassment, manipulation, and unsafe conditions—all purportedly heightened for the sake of television ratings.
In his complaint, Kotze asserts that the producers intentionally directed him toward a romantic relationship with fellow cast member Raquel “Rocky” Dakota, despite his clear discomfort with the notion. The lawsuit details how producers seemingly orchestrated interactions between the two, scheduling them for shifts alone together and encouraging romantic encounters through alcohol provision.
On one occasion, Kotze recounts that a producer coached him on what pickup line to use on Dakota while filming, a move he describes as outside his character. The situation, he claims, did not improve after filming concluded; he alleges that NBCUniversal defamed him by editing footage to misrepresent his actions and then retaliated against him when he raised concerns about his treatment.
Kotze’s legal claims extend to seeking substantial damages, estimating his lost future earnings at around $123 million, noting that his aspiring yachting career was left in ruins as a result of the show’s actions. He is also requesting at least $10 million for emotional distress and proposes punitive damages of $500 million, reflecting NBCUniversal’s financial standing.
The lawsuit was filed in New York in October 2025, marking ten years since Kotze’s appearance on Below Deck. He cites “new evidence and recent developments” that have prompted him to pursue this path, with the aim of bringing to light what he describes as exploitative practices and ensuring that similar conduct faces legal repercussions in the future.
While NBCUniversal has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, Kotze’s case underscores the broader conversations around the reality television industry and the treatment of its participants. As the legal proceedings develop, they could set a significant precedent for accountability within reality TV production.