Tragic news from the world of reality television as Nick Mavar, known for his time on Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch, has passed away at the age of 59. Bristol Bay Police Chief Jeffrey Eldie confirmed Mavar’s death to TMZ on June 13, 2024. According to Elbie, the police department received a call regarding a medical emergency at a boatyard in Naknek, Alaska. Medics responded and transported Mavar to Camai Medical Center, where attempts to save his life were unsuccessful.
No official cause of death has been released, but the Bristol Bay Borough Police Department noted that they are waiting to speak with witnesses present during Mavar’s medical emergency.
Nick Mavar’s Longstanding Career
Mavar was a prominent figure on Deadliest Catch, appearing in 98 episodes from 2005 to 2021. He also featured in several spin-offs, including Deadliest Catch: Siberian Winter and Deadliest Catch: The Bait.
Mavar was known for working aboard the F/V Northwestern under Captain Sig Hansen. As a deckhand, he maintained the mechanical equipment of the Northwestern and played a significant role in the series.
The Health Scare and Lawsuit
Mavar’s journey on Deadliest Catch ended abruptly in 2020 after his appendix ruptured during a voyage in December. The medical scare led to his departure from the show and resulted in serious complications, including discovering a cancerous tumor connected to his appendix.
Following this incident, Mavar sued the owners of the Northwestern, Sig Hansen and his wife June, alleging that there was no proper health care plan for emergencies during the coronavirus pandemic. This delay in medical treatment was cited as causing complications that could have been avoided.
A Close Relationship with Jake Anderson
Mavar wasn’t just influential on screen but also impacted his colleagues deeply. He helped Captain Jake Anderson through personal battles with alcohol and drugs. Anderson even shared a tribute on Twitter following Mavar’s death: Today I lost someone I worked side by side with for years as a deckhand.
The lawsuit following Mavar’s health issues sought $1 million in damages due to the lack of immediate medical care provided during the pandemic. The ship’s owners later filed legal action against the production company behind Deadliest Catch, claiming they were responsible for the delays that led to medical complications.
Condolences from Fans and Colleagues
The shock of Nick Mavar’s passing reverberates through both fans and colleagues alike. His sudden death has left many mourning, reflecting on his contributions to both television and the people around him.I love you uncle Nick Mavar; you are the embodiment of fisherman. Thank you for pulling me out of the mire so many years ago,
wrote Jake Anderson in a heartfelt tribute.
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