Episode reviews

🌊 The Rumor Mill: Below Deck Season 12 Episode 11 Erupts in Scandal, Secrets & Stew Second Chances
By Sienna G, Senior Reality TV Correspondent

Episode 11, aptly titled “The Rumor Mill,” turns the St. David into a powder keg. With confessions, investigations, and birthday chaos, this installment peels back the veneer of yachtie pride to reveal how fast rumours can sink a crew—and their morale.

Kyle’s Birthday Blow-Up: When Confessions Cross the Line

Kyle Stillie’s birthday celebration quickly devolves into headline-worthy chaos. In a fevered van monologue to Hugo, he blurts out a drunken claim: “I fcked Helen in the sea… I slipped my dck.” His friends erupt with laughter, but alarm bells ring as his comments spiral. With no condom response from Kyle (“He had an idea… she knew what she wanted”), the odds of a nap of narrative—or a nightmare—skyrocket. 

The crew—especially host Kerry—reevaluates the rumor’s credibility. Kyle orders a celebratory dinner: fine-tuned, seven-course perfection courtesy of Chef Anthony. But the culinary success does little to chew away the tension brewing on deck.

Romantic Fallout and Interior Reckoning

Jess finally faces the emotional wreckage she helped create, admitting on camera that her decisions were “rooted in her feelings, not others’.” With Solène and Bárbara among those hurt by her actions, she takes baby steps at amending past hurts—inviting Bárbara out on an unexpected date. 

Solène, however, remains fragmented. Her icy exit—“Apparently, we’re better when we don’t speak”—underscores just how fractured their triangle has become.

Captain Kerry Calls It: Investigation Initiated

By the next morning, Captain Kerry demands answers. Kyle finally admits, “nothing did happen,” owning that the more salacious comments were “joking… drunken bullshit.” Still, Kerry’s not playing patsy: he convenes the crew, searching for corroboration—and it’s isolation that greets him.

Gallery of Highlights

Reddit Reactions: “From Likable to Unrecognizable”

Over at Reddit, the backlash is immediate:

“Bragging about the guest… brings it up again in the hot tub! … Nothing about his behaviour this episode has left him feeling very likeable.”

The sentiment is clear: one explosive night has tipped the scales from entertaining to exasperating.

Rating: ★★★☆☆

“The Rumor Mill” delivers the drama fans love, but Kyle’s reckless admissions blur the line between reality TV and disrespect. While the galley finds its rhythm and Captain Kerry holds the ship steady, the emotional damage may be irreparable—especially when guests are still aboard.