Bravo's 'Below Deck Mediterranean' Captain Mark Howard Dies Unexpectedly At 65
Oct. 29 2021, Published 3:57 p.m. ET
Bravo has lost a family member. The beloved captain on Below Deck Mediterranean Mark Howard has reportedly died.
According to reports, the yacht captain — known for being a disciplinarian — passed away at home in Florida last week. Sources reveal Howard's death was unexpected and sudden.
The cause of his passing is not yet known. Captain Howard was only 65 years old.
He first made a splash on the silver screen during season one of Below Deck Mediterranean in 2016. According to his Bravo profile, Howard always took the "guest is always right" way of thinking, although he attempted to remain "approachable" to his staff.
The Michigan native had plenty of experience, holding the title of captain for more than 30 years. Besides chartering between the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean, Howard somehow found the time to obtain his pilot license.
He told producers that flying was an elected hobby he enjoyed doing.
Howard was a professional, who always road the fine line of being authoritative and fair to his Below Deck crew.
In one of his most famous clips from the show, Captain Howard can be seen laying down the hammer after members of his deck crew brought civilians back on the yacht to continue a night of drinking.
Not only is that a big no-no in yachting, but the members served the females liquor that belonged to the boat — something Howard was not pleased with.
While he only appeared for 13 episodes on season one, Howard was often associated with the hit Bravo series. His position was later famously taken over by Captain Sandy Yawn.
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Bravo paid tribute to Howard following the news of his death. "Our thoughts and sincerest sympathies are with the family and friends of the respected Captain Mark Howard," the network wrote on Instagram. "As the captain of the first season of ‘Below Deck Med,’ he will always be remembered for his many contributions and mentorship and will forever remain part of the Bravo family."
R.I.P.
