Below Deck’s Fraser Olender wants chef Moe Vilomar to stay on board, but he understands how workplace pressure can make a crew member consider quitting. Fraser has faced similar situations and hopes his experience can help Moe through a difficult period. The chef’s recent struggles have raised questions about his future on the yacht.
Fraser Olender worries Moe Vilomar could quit
In a November interview with Bravo Insider, Fraser explained why he encouraged Moe not to leave. “I wanted him to stay,” he said, explaining that he had also experienced moments when he felt overwhelmed and considered quitting as the easiest option. Fraser drew on those experiences when offering advice. “You can get through this. Take it one day at a time,” he recalled telling Moe.
Moe faced several challenges, including changes back home in New Jersey. His mother sold the house where he grew up, leaving him upset about being away from his family. “I’m feeling very down, because I’m not home with family,” he said during the November 9 episode. Guests on the second charter also criticized his cooking.
The complaints prompted Moe to reflect on his performance and take responsibility for his mistakes. “There’s self-reflection and accountability from the last charter,” he said. He recalled that, as a younger chef, he disliked criticism and challenged other chefs while working as a line cook. He eventually recognized, “I’m the problem,” and said he wanted to remain focused during the third charter.
The crew also encountered what they described as “disrespectful” tourists in Thailand between charters. A scuffle during the outing left Moe shaken. Captain Kerry Titheradge noticed that Moe was struggling and reminded him that the second charter was “just a moment in your life.” Kerry told producers he wanted Moe to feel safe and acknowledged that emotions can affect people.
Fraser praised Moe as one of the most enjoyable chefs he had worked with, describing his calm nature as refreshing and saying the two worked well together. He hopes Moe can move past the difficult experiences and remain part of the crew.
