Below Deck: Mediterranean star says she was detained and deported from US

Natalya Scudder, a former Below Deck: Mediterranean cast member, says she was detained at Los Angeles International Airport and later deported to Australia after US immigration officials concluded she had worked while on the wrong visa.

Speaking to TMZ, the Australian reality TV personality claimed officials questioned her about photos she took in the US in 2024 that allegedly generated income. She said authorities told her this amounted to unauthorised work under the terms of her visa.

Scudder said she spent about a day in a detention facility at the airport, describing the conditions as dirty and uncomfortable. She alleged there were stained walls, dirty blankets, limited washing facilities and no towels. She also claimed officers searched her iPhone, including her messages, notes, photos and ChatGPT history.

According to Scudder, she was later informed she would be deported and was placed on a flight back to Australia after what she described as a lengthy travel ordeal.

Despite the experience, Scudder said she still loves the US but warned other content creators to ensure they fully understand and comply with the conditions of their visas before travelling or earning income in the country.

US authorities have not publicly commented on Scudder's account.