What happened to Duffy on Wicked Tuna? How did Duffy on Wicked Tuna die?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Mar 06, 2023
Who is Duffy on Wicked Tuna?
Duffy was one of the captains featured on the popular National Geographic Channel reality show "Wicked Tuna". The show follows several fishing boats as they compete against each other to catch the most bluefin tuna off the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts.
Duffy was the captain of the Pinwheel, a 35-foot boat that he had been fishing on for over a decade. He was known for his no-nonsense approach to fishing and his intense focus on the task at hand. His crew is made up of his first mate, Kevin, and his deckhand, Spenser.
Despite his gruff exterior, Duffy was highly respected among the other captains on the show for his skill and knowledge of the waters off the coast of Massachusetts. He is a veteran fisherman who knows how to find and catch big fish, and he is not afraid to take risks in order to do so.
Throughout the show's seasons, Duffy has had some memorable moments, such as catching a massive 920-pound bluefin tuna, and his intense rivalry with Captain Tyler McLaughlin. He was also known for his occasional outbursts and temper tantrums, which have become something of a trademark for him.
Overall, Duffy was a beloved character on "Wicked Tuna", known for his expertise and his no-nonsense approach to fishing. Fans of the show appreciate his dedication to the sport and his willingness to take risks in order to succeed.
What happened to Duffy on Wicked Tuna?
Duffy's death was miserable to not only his family but also to wicked tuna crew members. Duffy, the skilled first mate of "Pinwheel," Captain Tyler McLaughlin's fishing boat on "Wicked Tuna," was a beloved character on the show. Viewers appreciated his laid-back personality and remarkable fishing abilities as he helped scour the depths off the coast of Massachusetts for the valuable Atlantic Bluefin Tuna. He also appeared on the spin-off series "Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks" and won the hearts of fans with his love for the outdoors and respect for the environment.
Duffy's family remembers him for his adventurous spirit, mischievous sense of humor, and his ability to light up any room with his infectious smile and fearlessness. In the face of grief, his obituary suggests that he's now on his next adventure, searching for his missing cell phones, IDs, and credit cards.
Despite the crew's grief over Duffy's death, they have persevered in the three years since he passed away. As reported by The Sun, they have continued their work with dedication, catching fish and honoring Duffy's memory. Captain McLaughlin, a close friend of Duffy's, says that catching a fish on the spot where he and Duffy caught their last fish together meant so much to him, regardless of its market value. He and the crew remain committed to the work that Duffy loved, honoring him through their continued efforts.
How did Duffy on Wicked Tuna die?
When Wicked Tuna entered its tenth season, viewers likely remembered one of its former stars, Nicholas Fudge, who tragically passed away in 2018 at the age of 28. Fudge, who was also known by his nickname 'Duffy', had his death announced by The Remick & Gendron Funeral Home on July 19, 2018, and later confirmed by "Wicked Tuna" on social media on July 23. The cause of his "unexpected" death was not initially disclosed, but fellow fishermen in the area suggested that he may have died from decompression sickness, also known as 'the bends'.
Decompression sickness is a common affliction among deep-sea divers and scuba divers. It is caused by a rapid decrease in pressure that can lead to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the blood, resulting in symptoms ranging from dizziness and joint pain to death. Fudge, who was known for his fishing skills, left behind a loving family that included his parents, Ronald Jr. and Judy Fudge, his brother Cody, and his girlfriend Ali Currier.
Fudge earned his spot on the "Wicked Tuna" crew thanks to his exceptional fishing abilities and was considered one of the most accomplished sportsmen in his field. His untimely death was a devastating loss for his family, friends, and fans of the show.
About Wicked Tuna
Wicked Tuna is a reality TV series that premiered on the National Geographic Channel in 2012. The show follows a group of commercial fishermen from Gloucester, Massachusetts, as they compete against each other to catch the valuable Atlantic Bluefin Tuna. The series showcases the unique fishing methods used by the crews, the dangerous and unpredictable nature of their work, and the intense rivalry between the teams.
The show has been praised for its authenticity and attention to detail in portraying the lives of commercial fishermen. It highlights the challenges faced by the fishermen in catching the elusive tuna, including changing weather conditions and the unpredictable behavior of the fish. The show also explores the economic impact of the tuna fishing industry on the local community and the sustainability of the fishery.
The captains and crew of the fishing boats are the main focus of the show, and viewers get to know them personally over the course of the series. Each crew has a unique dynamic, with tensions and rivalries often brewing between the teams. However, the crews also have a deep respect for each other and share a common bond in their love for the sea and the fish they catch.
The success of Wicked Tuna has led to several spin-off series, including "Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks," which follows fishermen in North Carolina, and "Wicked Tuna: Outer Banks - Reels of Fortune," which features the crews competing in a tournament-style format. The show has also sparked a renewed interest in tuna fishing and has led to increased tourism in the Gloucester area.
Overall, Wicked Tuna is a thrilling and authentic look at the dangerous and exciting world of commercial tuna fishing, showcasing the passion and skill of the fishermen who risk their lives to catch one of the ocean's most prized fish.
What happened to Duffy on Wicked Tuna - FAQs
Duffy, whose real name was Nicholas Fudge, was a commercial fisherman and first mate on the "Pinwheel" fishing vessel on the reality TV series "Wicked Tuna".
Duffy passed away on July 19, 2018, at the age of 28, just days before his 29th birthday.
The exact cause of Duffy's death was not officially disclosed. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that he may have died from decompression sickness, also known as "the bends", which can occur when divers resurface too quickly.
Yes, Duffy was a fan favorite on the show. His infectious love for the outdoors and his passion for fishing, combined with his laid-back personality, made him a beloved character among viewers.
Duffy's legacy on "Wicked Tuna" is one of skill, determination, and passion for his work. He was widely respected by his fellow crew members and will be remembered by fans of the show for his infectious personality and love for the sea.