Below Deck’s Fraser Olender opens up on Matt Rogers romance after split: ‘Love him very much’

Below Deck Chief Stew Fraser Olender opened up about his relationship with Matt Rogers in scenes filmed before their split.

The former couple confirmed their relationship in November 2025, but split in July 2026 after having previously taken a break.

Speaking in the first episode of the new season of Below Deck, filmed last year, Olender says: “I fell in love with a man, and I still love him very much.”

In a talking head moment, the reality star opens up more, saying: “Since St David [last season], I met a wonderful man. We had a fabulous few months dating, and because I’m about to be away for the next two, three months, and so is he with his schedule, we’ve decided to put things somewhat on pause.

“Stay in touch as much as we feel like we want to, and see where we’re at when the season finishes.

“So, technically, I’m still available for any deckies that want to have a cute little kiss here and there. But, ultimately, I’m hired to do the job, not to take away the girls’ boys.”

He adds to a co-star: “Whilst I’m away, we’re kind of just, like, supporting each other from afar.”

Olender has been seen kissing a few of his male co-stars in previous seasons, and the first episode also revealed new deckhand James Bishop might be open to kissing boys. Could a mini boat romance be on the cards?

Inside Matt Rogers and Fraser Olender’s split

Speaking on Drag Race icon Katya Zamalodchikova’s podcast with Grindr, Who’s The A*****?, in September, Rogers admitted he’s back on the apps.

“I’m familiar [with Grindr],” he said. “I tried to become more familiar last week for the first time in, like, three years. I tried to ‘refamiliarise’ myself.”

His and Olender’s split was confirmed in July, with a source telling People that “they remain friends”.

The duo previously spoke of taking a break, after Olender had a major health scare, caused by vaping.

In April 2026, Rogers explained the scare had been difficult for them and they’d taken some time apart.

However they were soon seen together again, making their red carpet debut at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards in May.

Sadly, by July, they had “mutually decided to part ways”.

Below Deck is available to stream in the UK on hayu.

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