Gina Heslop
Charlie Griffin, a beloved reality TV star known for his role on the National Geographic show “Wicked Tuna,” tragically died in a boating accident. The accident occurred on Sunday night while Griffin was boating with a friend in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
The Coast Guard reported that the two boaters, who had left Virginia Beach, were supposed to reach Wanchese, North Carolina, for boat repairs by 11 p.m. However, they had not been seen or heard from since 6:15 p.m. that evening.
On Monday, Coast Guard members and local first responders found the empty boat. Inside, they discovered the bodies of Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila. As of Monday evening, officials were still searching for the second person who was supposed to be on the trip.
Griffin’s death was confirmed in a heartbreaking post on his Facebook page, Reels of Fortune. The post featured a photo of Griffin smiling and soaking up the sun, accompanied by the message, “It is with the deepest sadness that we report that Charlie Griffin and his beloved dog, Leila, have died in a boating accident today. Please keep family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”
Griffin began his career as an actor in North Carolina, joining the cast of “Wicked Tuna” in Season 2 and remaining until Season 5. The reality TV show follows experienced fishermen who compete to catch massive fish, some worth tens of thousands of dollars. The fisherman with the best performance at the end of the season is declared the winner, earning lifelong bragging rights. Griffin notably won at the end of the fourth season.
Fans and celebrity friends expressed their condolences and sorrow on social media. One fan wrote, “One of my all-time favorite guys. Rest easy, Griff.” Another commented, “This is very sad for all show fans.
He will forever be one of my favorites.” Some fans shared a touching photo of Charlie and Leila, recalling a memorable boat ride they had with him last summer. A fan described Griffin as “very knowledgeable and friendly, a great captain,” and praised Leila as a wonderful dog. “Family and friends of him are in our thoughts and prayers,” the fan added.
NC Watermen United, an organization supporting commercial fishermen, also paid tribute to Griffin. They described him as “well-loved and will be missed by many,” adding, “We will always be grateful for the difference he made in our lives.”
