From Bromance to “Apple Crumble”: What Happened Between Joe and Nathan?
If you’re like me, you’re still reeling from the vibe shift on Below Deck Mediterranean. Last year, Joe Bradley and Nathan Gallagher were the ultimate package deal. I remember interviewing them in NYC, they were literally leaning on each other, telling me they were the “same caliber of person.” Joe even joked, “If I didn’t have this guy, I’d probably crumble,” to which Nathan added, “We’d be apple crumble.”
Well, grab a spoon, because that crumble is officially served cold. Season 10 has turned these “starved, giggly lovers” into total strangers.
The Gael Factor
The cracks started with Nathan’s girlfriend, Gael Cameron. While Nathan and Joe were thick as thieves on deck, Joe and Gael were busy engaged in a “social media war” that Joe admits “spiraled into chaos” between seasons.
When Gael joined the Season 10 crew, the tension was thick enough to cut with a fillet knife. Gael hasn’t held back, previously calling Joe “a little bit of a dick” regarding his treatment of women. The kicker? Nathan is now siding with his lady, agreeing that Joe needs to be more “mindful” on nights out.
Management Meltdowns
It’s not just about the girls, though. Nathan’s new role as Bosun has shifted the power dynamic.
Joe’s Take: He thinks the promotion went to Nathan’s head, claiming his former bestie yells too much.
Nathan’s Take: He’s stressed! Managing a deck team is high-stakes, and he doesn’t have time for Joe’s signature brand of “melodrama.”
Where Do They Stand Now?
The “unfollow” button has been hit. The two are currently not on speaking terms, and Nathan has gone radio silent on social media. While Joe told The Daily Dish he’s ready to “throw any animosity… in a bin” for the sake of Nathan’s new baby, the bridge seems pretty burned.
Is there a path back to brotherhood? Joe says he wants to make amends with Gael to get to Nathan, but for now, this bromance is firmly in the locker.
– Lexi
