Deadliest Catch’s Sig Hansen Expresses Concern About ‘Mortality’ Before Season 21
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Captain Sig Hansen of Deadliest Catch fame is opening up about the forthcoming 21st season of the hit show in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Reflecting on his extensive career, he discusses his plans for retirement and the challenges he faces as he continues to brave the perilous waters.
As the season 21 premiere of Deadliest Catch approaches, Captain Sig Hansen shares that this season holds special significance for him. The crew tackles daunting 50-foot seas as they venture further west than they have in three decades to reach the deserted Adak Island in Alaska. Hansen reveals, “We went as far west as we legally could, which was pretty nostalgic for me.”
In a unique turn of events, Hansen teams up with fellow captain Johnathan Hillstrand to prospect for crab, a departure from their usual competitive dynamic. Hansen jokingly attributes this change to ageing, saying, “I guess that’s what happens when you get old, you start to get realistic.”
A poignant highlight of the season for Hansen is witnessing his daughter, Mandy, take on the role of captain. He expresses his pride in her accomplishments, underscoring the emotional depth of their shared experiences at sea.
The treacherous waters of the Bering Sea present numerous life-threatening scenarios for the crew, as illustrated in a sneak peek of the premiere episode exclusively shared with PEOPLE. One such incident involves Jake Anderson’s crew facing an imminent threat that forces them to abandon ship.
These dangerous encounters on the sea have prompted Hansen to reevaluate his stance on retirement. While previously dismissing the idea, he now acknowledges the impact of his mortality fears and the importance of spending time with his loved ones, particularly his family.
Looking ahead, Hansen contemplates the inevitability of retirement, considering the four grandchildren he now cherishes. He muses on the shift in perspective that comes with age and the evolving priorities that guide his decisions about the future.
Recalling the beginnings of his career as the youngest captain in Alaska at just 22, Hansen reflects on the fearlessness that characterised his early success. He advises his daughter to be mindful of boundaries and limitations, highlighting the critical importance of safety at sea.
Despite the risks and challenges he has encountered over the years, Hansen asserts his confidence in his abilities, stating unequivocally, “I’m good at what I do. I’m the best there is.”
As fans eagerly anticipate the premiere of season 21 of Deadliest Catch, airing on August 1st on the Discovery Channel, Captain Sig Hansen’s introspective outlook offers a glimpse into the complex realities of life on the challenging yet rewarding seas. Stay tuned for more gripping adventures and emotional revelations from the intrepid crew.