‘Wicked Tuna’ Cast Member Nicholas Fudge Dies at 28

The Wicked Tuna family has suffered a tragic loss with the death of Nicholas ‘Duffy’ Fudge at the […]

July 23, 2018, 6:09pm

The Wicked Tuna family has suffered a tragic loss with the death of Nicholas “Duffy” Fudge at the age of 28.

The National Geographic Channel personality unexpectedly died Sunday, the show announced on social media, adding, “We join his family and friends in mourning his untimely loss.” No cause of death has been made available at this time.

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.@NatGeoChannel and @Pilgrim_Studios were saddened to learn that Wicked Tuna cast member Nicholas “Duffy” Fudge passed away this week. Duffy was the first mate on Captain Tyler McLaughlin’s fishing vessel, Pinwheel. We join his family and friends in mourning his untimely loss. pic.twitter.com/Cw8Q8JKQHn
— Wicked Tuna (@WickedTuna) July 23, 2018

According to his obituary, the first mate on Captain Tyler McLaughlin’s boat “was known for his smile, his fearlessness, his adventurous spirit, his mischievous sense of humor, and giving big hugs.”

“His passions were fishing and the outdoors. As a child, Nick began tuna fishing with his father and grandfather. After becoming one of the top sport fishermen in the country, he earned a place on the National Geographic reality show Wicked Tuna for multiple seasons. Nick also treasured the environment and he took seriously his responsibility to protect it,” the tribute continues.

As a memorial for Duffy, we will be having a moment of silence on our Twitter during tonight’s episode. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/CW1RIHTHrY
— Wicked Tuna (@WickedTuna) July 23, 2018

The show and its fans took to social media to pay respects to the young man, even announcing a moment of silence during its episode Sunday.

@PinWheelFV @WickedTuna I am very saddened to hear this! Duffy was a joy to watch! Prayers to his family and loved ones during this hard time. 😔😔😔💔💔💔
— Kim Gabryjelski (@kimmarie1223) July 23, 2018

Omg no!!!!! I’m so sorry for your loss 😩😩
— Shayla (@srfranks101) July 23, 2018

Wow prayers go out to his family and to Tyler. May he catch many more tuna up there. RIP Duffy.
— Sabrina Catherine (@Sabrinaaa_cm) July 23, 2018

So sad to hear this. We always pulled for Duffy and Tyler.
— Steve Coleman (@altidude3) July 23, 2018

Our prayers go out to Duffy’s family and friends. So young, so talented, so passionate. His enthusiasm and smile will be missed.
— Bob Maynes (@bobmaynes) July 23, 2018

Man he was way too young. RIP Duffy.
— Mike Monahan (@mr_mike_monahan) July 23, 2018

Oh Jesus Christ I cannot right now 💔 NOOOOOOOO. Wicked Tuna crew is my fam every Sunday 😭
— Lotta (@CrichesCriches) July 23, 2018

This is so tragic to hear that it just doesn’t seem real! He will be missed no doubt!! “stick’em” was a word I loved hearing him say! Prayers for his family and Tyler! RIP Duffy 💜😪
— TMac (@tbmc777) July 23, 2018

Wicked Tuna airs Sundays at 10 p.m. ET on National Geographic.

Photo Credit: Twitter / Wicked Tuna