Chef Ben Robinson has beenan entertaining veteran in theBelow Deckfranchise, charming audiences with his culinary expertise and larger-than-life personality.
As one of the most memorable chefs in the series, his ability to craft gourmet meals under the pressure of luxury yacht conditions made him a popular person to watch. Even after stepping away from the show, his name remains synonymous with the yacht culinary world.
Since his departure, fans have remained curious about his personal life and professional ventures.Ben continues to make headlines beyond reality television,from high-profile catering events to surprising life updates. Whether it’s his evolving career or the latest developments in his relationships, here’s what Chef Ben has been up to.
Chef Ben’s Journey In The Below Deck Franchise
Chef Ben’s Impact On Below Deck
WhenChef Ben first graced the screensin 2013 as the first executive chef on Bravo’sBelow Deck,he held nothing back,quickly becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the franchise.
Between his appearances on bothBelow DeckandBelow Deck Mediterranean, he earned praise for his ability to craft amazing dishes in the tight confines of a yacht galley.
His on-screen presence was amplified by his infamous love-hate relationship withChief Steward Kate Chastain, whose sharp wit often clashed with Ben’s equally strong personality, leading to some of the franchise’s most memorable moments.
Ben’s most recent stint in the franchise came duringBelow Deck Mediterraneanseason 4, where he stepped in as a replacement chef to stabilize the galley after the previous chef’s struggles.
His return was a welcome sight for longtime fans, as he effortlessly restored order in the kitchen while delivering his signature gourmet creations. However, despite his legacy within the franchise,Ben has since moved on from reality television, focusing on his thriving catering business and other culinary ventures instead.
Chef Ben Broke Off His Engagement
A Change of Course For Ben’s Adventures
In May 2023,Ben announced his engagementto longtime girlfriend Kiara Cabral. The couple had been together for four years, and fans and fellow crewmates celebrated their engagement.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Ben revealed in September 2024 that they had decided to call off their engagement.
In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram (viabenstogramat Instagram), Ben stated, “Hey guys, I hope everyone’s had a wonderful summer. I have some news… Kiara and I have decided to part ways. This was a mutual decision, and we remain friends. It’s the best decision for both of us.”
He further expressed gratitude for the support from his followersand emphasized his focus on personal growth and professional endeavors.
He Still Works As A Chef
Ben’s Culinary Career Beyond Below Deck
Chef Ben has remained deeply immersed in the culinary world despite stepping away from theBelow Deckcameras.He operates a successful catering business based in South Florida,offering customized dining experiences that reflect his eclectic culinary background. His services range from intimate dinners to large-scale events, focusing on personalized menus and high-quality ingredients.
In addition to his catering ventures, Ben has made guest appearances on various culinary shows and events. Notably, he participated in Food Network’sBeachside Brawl,where he reunited with fellowBelow Deckalum Kate. Their friendship and shared history brought a unique element to the show.
Beyond television,Chef Ben is also a certified health coachspecializing in weight loss, cancer support, and addiction recovery. This certification allows him to integrate health and wellness principles into his culinary practices. He offers clients nutritious and delicious meal options tailored to their specific needs.
Will Ben Ever Return To The Below Deck Franchise?
The Possibility Of Chef Ben’s Return To Below Deck
The possibility of Chef Ben returning to theBelow Deckfranchise has been a topic of much speculation among fans. In previous interviews, Ben has expressed a sense of fulfillment with his time on the show, suggesting that he has moved on to new challenges and opportunities.
In a candid discussion on an after-show, “Yachties and Hotties,” at Bravo’s Fan Fest in Miami, a fan asked Ben what he would need to return to the show.
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Ben replied with his trademark boyish charm,“I would have to be invited first…as long as there was a short season, I would definitely consider it…I’m Ready”(ViaPage Six’s YouTube). Fans were thrilled to hear the answer! Even Captain Sandy reacted, declaring,“I want Ben on the Med!”
Chef Ben Will Be On Below Deck Down Under Season 4
Ben Is Making His Long-Awatied Return
On April 11, it was confirmedBelow Deck DownUnderis returning with season 4 and with some new crew members and fellow Bravolberities as guests.
Bravo’s Instagram account revealed thatChef Ben will be making his return to theBelow Deckfranchisealmost six years after his last appearance in the franchise, which wasBelow Deck Medseason 4.
Joining Chef Ben on the season isBelow Deck Sailing Yacht’s Chief Stew Daisy Kelliher, and Captain Jason Chambers will be returning to the series as the long-standing captain. It’s unclear who else will be joining the crew.
One of the guests will beThe Real Housewives of Salt Lake Citycast members Mary Cosby and Angie Katsanevas. It’s unclear if anyone else from the cast will be on board.
It seems this season might be the long-awaitedBelow DeckAll-Stars that fans have been talking about for years. Chef Ben has always been a fan favorite, so it’s not shocking that he was asked back along with an all-star cast. Chef Ben’s return has been long-awaited, and many are hoping this means he is here to stay.
The Famous Chef Seemed To Enjoy Below Deck Down Under Season 4
He Appeared At A Special Event On July 12
Ben posted withBelow Deck Down Underseason 4castmates on June 27, 2025, and seemed to be excited (yet nervous) about appearing on the famous spin-off.
InBen’s Instagram post, the culinary wizard shared his sense of anticipation. Away from that spin-off, he’s doing his own thing -Ben’s connecting with fans. In the former post, he wrote:
Fresh as a Daisy and ready for this challenge! Wish me luck because I’ll probably need it. Cheers!#BelowDeckDownUnder#BelowDeck#BravoTV#Yachting#NeedAllTheLuckICanGet#Cheers#ChefBen
Ben has been cranky in the past - in fact,his mood swings can be incredibly dramatic. However, when he added this IG post, he appeared to be focusing on the sunny side of life.
Appearing with Captain Jason probably made that all easier. Jason’s a quirky captain who’s done some zany things onscreen. For example, he’s known for posing in silky robes, cultivating a playboy image that’s his own spin on the legendary “stud of the sea,” Captain Lee Rosbach.
In the post about his tour, added in early July, Ben was also chipper - he said:
If you’re in the#detroitarea July 12. Come to@yachtrockdetroitgreat event… I’ll be doing a great#fooddemonstration#meetandgreet#summereventhope to see you!#❤️#foodevent#rockevent#musicevent#chef#chefben
The event has a fun name. “Yacht rock” is a term that’s making a comeback lately. It’s music traditionally made by men who are very in touch with their feelings. One iconic example is the smooth Christopher Cross hit, “Sailing.”
Ben is born under the Sun sign, Capricorn, which means that he’s naturally pessimistic. He may actually relate to some of the more maudlin qualities of yacht rock at its most definitive.
However, the event, as per his hashtag, is really about food, his passion.
Capricorns worry, always wanting things to be perfect. They put so much pressure on themselves. This can lead them to work extremely hard and succeed.
That being said, they sometimes need a little help to be playful, and focus on more than their careers. However, it definitely seems like theBelow Deckstar’s combining work and play in a way that really makes him happy.
