Deadliest Catch Behind the Scenes with Jake and Josh Harris

Back in April, I met up with Jake and Josh Harris, two stars of the Discovery Channel’s Deadliest Catch and shot portraits of the brothers for People Magazine. The article had a look at where they are now, one year after their father, Phil Harris, skipper of the f/v Cornelia Marie‘s tragic death. It’s been 5 years since me the crew of the f/v Rollo were filmed for Deadliest Catch. Back then the show was popular, but now it’s a beast. Things have changed quite a lot in Dutch, and those who have starred on the show since the beginning have become huge celebrities. Who knew?

So, when I met Josh and Jake again after a few years time, I was pleasantly surprised that they were good guys. Genuinely humble and patient in spending a whole day with me in three locations around the greater Seattle area. Josh had just come back from a week at the playboy mansion and wore a watch worth six figures and drives a top of the line Mercedes, which was a bit ludicrous, but somehow he pulls it off with humility.

Here are some pics from the people mag spreads and some outtakes that didn’t make the very small cut:

Deadliest Catch, Cornelia Marie, Jake Harris, Josh Harris, photo: Corey Arnold

Jake and Josh Harris for People Magazine -- photo: Corey Arnold

Josh Harris and Jake Harris at home with his dog for People Magazine. photo: Corey Arnold

 

Jake and Josh Harris with dad's Corvette. Photo: Corey Arnold

Josh Harris in Seattle. Photo: Corey Arnold

Jake Harris at Home. Photo: Corey Arnold

Josh Harris at home. Photo: Corey Arnold

Josh Harris Bedroom. Photo: Corey Arnold

Josh Harris Bedroom Scene. photo: Corey Arnold

Jake Harris and gnome tree. photo: Corey Arnold

Phil Harris

Fisherman's Memorial in Seattle. Photo: Corey Arnold

109 comments

  1. Sandra Westwood says:

    WOW! Absolutely amazing story and photos! I began crying when I read about the strangers coming up in stores crying and hugging them. I can only imagine. I was devastated by his loss. I couldn’t stop watching DC over and over for months because I couldn’t believe it happened. I just last week, end of July 2011, was finally able to bring myself to delete the DVR events from last year. It is amazing how much you feel a part of your heart dies too when you see this. For only two hours each week (plus the hour for After the Catch), they come into our homes and become a part of our families. We see things we can only imagine or dream of, but it brings us closer than we could ever get. The admiration, adoration and respect for what these brave men and women do becomes a part of “our” lives, so to see one pass, at least for me, left a huge void. To know these boys suffered the loss of a parent, and virtually every moment was caught on film by Todd…..it just blows me away. I lost my mom at 21 and was a mess for 3 years. I can’t even imagine it being on film… and people reminding you, every where you go. But to those young men, I pray God allows them to see just how MUCH their father was adored!! Thanks for the wonderful article!!

    Sandy Westwood – IT GEEK from IL/St. Louis metro

  2. Lisa P. says:

    Really sad to hear the Harris boys went back to smoking after trying the e-cigarette “for the show”. Sad they will end up just like their dad one day. Way to young to die. What a waste.

  3. Lori says:

    Not sure how I missed this article, but WOW it is amazing. Thanks for the pictures. I think Phil would be VERY proud of both of his boys. I continue to pray for them & wish then the best. Stay strong boys & take care of each other.

  4. Teri says:

    These young men have had their ups and downs, but it’s great to see them back on the right track. Phil would be proud of them. Even with all the ugliness they had to get through, their dad would definately be proud of them. they had to finish growing up and find their way…alone. That’s pretty tough. Their father was larger than life and I still like watching and learning the Wise Words of Phil (on YouTube). RIP Capt. Phil~~your boys are great!!!! One of my favorite sayings that Phil had was “This is why lion’s eat their young.” I LOVE THAT ONE!!!!!

  5. Julie Erard says:

    I am so proud of those boys. They’ve had a hard way to go since their dad passed. I’m proud of them for keeping the Cornelia going. Every time I start watching the show, I always see Captain Phil sitting in his chair. Proud of you Josh & Jake. You’re both good men!!

  6. Debbie says:

    I was wondering how come f/v Cornelia Marie isn’t listed under your “good people” category since f/v Time Bandit made it? Just a question about an observation is all. I love both boats along with the crew who makes each boat tick! Loved the pictures! Often have wondered why the boys haven’t sat down for a real interview about life now & how different it is trying 2 battle addiction when you’ve just lost one of THE MOST important people in their lives. XOXOX 2 the boys! & good job on pix!

  7. Karen C. says:

    We have all taken the show in to our hearts. It feels like family, especially when you’ve lost a member of your own. We’re all behind you and hope for the best. Good luck, hope you make your Dad proud!

  8. Krissie says:

    I loved the story. Josh and Jake can only go up from here. Phil would be proud and I’m sure he is smiling from heaven above.

  9. Maryann says:

    Jake is looking better. Are you still straight? Both y’all look fantastic , Love u guys , miss your dad.

  10. Adell S. says:

    My heart has gone out to and still does go out to Captain Phil’s family. Although I never got to meet Captain Phil in person, you can tell from the show that Jake and Josh were his world. He was hard on them from time to time because he loved them and wanted to leave them a legacy to be proud of. He did just that. Captain Phil made you feel like you were “part” of the Cornelia Marie family. When he passed, I cried like he was a true part of my family. I think the whole crabbing fleet did Phil justice in paying tribute to him. Although the ringing of the bell for him put me in tears again.
    To Jake and Josh: I know it is hard when you loose a parent. I lost my mom and sister (she had just turned 16) at the age of 11 years old. I went through all the usual questions of why?, why me? and why now?. It is hard because you don’t have anyone to say that it had to happen this way because….. . A drunk took my mom and sister from me. I didn’t get to spend much time with them because my dad had custody of me and they weren’t around for years at a time. Treasure the time and memories that you have of your dad. They will help through the tough times. There will be some for years to come but they get fewer and farther between as time goes on. Your dad IS with you boys. I feel it in my heart. That is just the way your dad would want it. If you look around you, you will see signs of him from time to time.
    Again, my heart and prayers are with you all as you continue to fish and live life to the fullest as your dad wanted it. You will succeed because you have a little bit of Phil in your blood.
    I am looking forward to seeing you all RUN the Cornelia Marie without another at the wheel.

  11. Dory Reed says:

    thank you for sharing this article. it is so nice to know how the harris boys are doing. their dad was amazing, plain and simple. i wish and pray for only great things for these two. God Bless you all!

  12. Dena Geissel says:

    Just wanted to point out, Cap’t Phil Harris did not pass away “aboard” the Cornelia, but regardless of where he did pass, he is missed greatly!!

  13. Kathy says:

    I love Deadliest Catch, and i think these boys are great, but if they were serious about buying the Cornelia Marie they would not have six figure watches and drive Mercedes.

  14. nell says:

    keep ur heads high n take care of the business thats what ur dad would love more then anything n prove the haters wrong getter done my family is pulling for u guy all wo

    rk no play

  15. Tracey Herisson says:

    Jake and Josh, you both should be proud of what both of you have accomplished. I truly believe that your dad is watching over you and keeping you both safe with your adventures at sea. Enjoy life while you can, and I hope to see you both make captain. I look forward to seeing the next episode.

  16. SSG Fred Campbell (ret) says:

    If you look back at when Phil got sick, and how much Jake contributed to that factor, has Jake learned anything from the whole experience of “putting his old man in the ground” over his habits, and to see him now, still doing what the whole world knows he’s doing, yet denying the help his big brother, and the temp. Captain has offered, makes one wonder if he can ever see past the end of his own nose, and finally grow up!! When he does I predict the CM will be a force to be reckoned with. For God sake Jake, grow up!! I hold no sympathy for you, like so many others that are too afraid to say, if you need help, email me, I have experience in turning wayward boys around, and making men out of them, 18 yrs of US Army experience

  17. johnny hudson says:

    I know what you guys are going through..My dad had a bad stroke,hes still living,but not the same..Me and my dad loved watching yall fish for crab..My dad is so much like your dad,thats why i loved your dad so much..I hope i get to meet you guys in person someday.Keep trying to quit smoking and trust in god to help you…Love you guys..

  18. Elaine Doughty says:

    These pictures were wonderful! Josh and Jake are two sons that a father would be proud of. Your father is watching over you with pride. Can’t wait for season 2012 to begin.

  19. Kenny @ Cindy Lippold says:

    You guys are really great. Tight lines.

    Ken & Cindy Lippold
    Milwaukee, WI
    414-405-2957

  20. ned ketchum says:

    most fisherman like me never get the recognition.have more bad days than good and take a beating while at it.beats a desk job any time of the week tho

  21. sk8ladyb says:

    Your father is missed he will be every day. Let the drugs and alcohol go. All they do is cause grief and you have had enough of it all ready.
    In my thoughts and lighting sage for you both.

  22. TM69 says:

    This article was nice and the pictures are great. I had tears in my eyes when i was reading the article, lol. Its fantastic to see their working things out.

  23. RHONDA WEBSTER says:

    O k Guys I too have lost the only parent I ever had !!! I know how it feels and what your going through …. Now Go out and MAKE YOUR DAD PROUD !!! I know you can do it and I will keep you in my prayers !!! Love you guys Rhonda

  24. Alex Medina says:

    You did an amazing job,the photos are fantastic. Even though i don’t personally know Jake and Josh they seem like the sweetest most genuin guys i’m glad you shared these photos with everyone.

  25. Margaret says:

    I love Phil! I miss him and know that his boys were his pride and joy. God Speed, Gentlemen, be safe and know we are with you.

  26. Mel Baker says:

    Love you guys – always have, always will.
    Thanks Corey for a great article and photos.
    Josh looks so much like Phil…
    Try to quit the smoking – I know it’s hard – I smoked for 20 years before I quit 3/23/06 – the day I had my massive stroke. And I’ll leave it at that.

    f/v Cornelia Marie FTW!
    <3

  27. Jacob says:

    U guys kick ass! i hope all the best 4 u guys and give me a call if u need a a new green horn hit me up lol!!!!

  28. Carla Moraglia says:

    Love the photos and the article, The C.M. has and always will be my favorite boat. Jake and Josh are amazing to keep going after all that has happened and all it it being in the public eye. Captain Phil will always be missed and I am looking towards watching you guys Become the Captains and men your dad knew you could and can be, you could see the love in his eyes for his boys. Good luck to you both and try try to stop smoking ….

  29. Laura Watkins says:

    I lost my father after he suffered a massive stroke five years ago, so I felt every moment of grief for Jake and Josh. It’s hard to move on when you lose one of the best men in the world, especially if he’s your father.

    Totally captivated by Corey Arnold’s portraits of the boys. Well done.

  30. Thomas "Turtle" Bennett says:

    At Kathy. How do you know they didn’t already have the 6 figure watches and Mercedes before there dad died..

    To the photographer.. Great job.

    To Josh & Jake, I know the show only shows a very tiny window into your lives. I could not begin to imagine what you have gone threw in the last 18 months. Jake good job getting clean.. Try like hell to keep it that way
    Josh. Remember to get some me time.. I cant imagine how hard that must be.. But its needed for everyone.
    Love the Show keep up the good work. As long as the Cornelia Marie, Time Bandit, Northwestern and the two new boats are on ill watch.. Thank you for a great show

  31. Kathy Razinha says:

    I know it’s been tough for both of the boys. My dad passed in 1983 just after his 51st birthday, leaving 6 boys and 2 girls devastated. We ranged in age at the time 15 to 28 and all felt the loss deeply. Even now there are times when it seems so fresh that I get overwhelmed but something that keeps me going and I wish for Josh and Jake:
    “You can not change the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails to reach your destination.” Decide on your destination and go for it!!!

  32. Louise says:

    Great pictures, I’m glad Jake and Josh are doing well. I wish them luck next season. I’ll be watching.

  33. laura mcguire says:

    I lost my mom to cancer 3 months after capt. Phil passed away. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through watching the strongest person I knew turn so fragile. Its haunted me ever since. I just wanted to say that he was a great guy. I didn’t even know him and he seemed to win my heart. Josh and jake take care of each other and be safe. Your dads watching over you. Love and prayers. Laura

  34. Janet Ridenour says:

    Enjoyed the article and photos. I truly hope the boys can can succeed in the fishing business, but more than that I pray each can find his way to a fulfilling, satisfiying life free of drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The crews of the boats featured on Deadliest Catch have become ‘family’ and the on-going lives of these boys matter to us. With the help and love from the other members of the DC captains and hands the boys can do well.

  35. Helen Lancia says:

    May God watch over you both as you step into your father’s shoes it isn’t an easy road,my husband has been bedridden for the last 10 years he had his own business for 22 years and then became chronicly ill with Lyme Disease ,my three adult daughters have had a hard road watching their father slowly loose his abilities to see walk ,and now talk ,he had to have a traque put in two weeks ago,he spends his time lying in bed ,he worked since he was 8 years old and was a third generation woodworker ,so I know how these boys must feel,thank God they are on the right trac,God Bless them both ,the photos are very inspiring:)

  36. Kristine Olsen says:

    Hey guys,im so happy to see your’s picture that’s good Josh and Jake look’s happy,in Discovery Channel we are miss Captain Phil Harris to see But we are so still see Deadliest catch ;) I’m from Greenland we are so lovet to see in Channel, sometimes i have been crying but later i am happy :) so i hope youre’s life keep runing, youres father love you very much i know that and see many time in television he is happy at he hade to beautiful to boys <3. We are self a one boy soon 10-years old in November We love him so much…
    So Josh and Jake have a good life love you guys… Love Kristine from Greenland.

  37. Heather says:

    To the guy who slammed Jake on here…….. What right do you have to try to make someones child that has now passed away feel at all responsible for his death? Honestly that makes me I’ll. I personally think he looks way healthier now but regardless it’s not our right to judge and he had nothing to do with his fathers death! Phil unfortunately was I’ll well before Jakes addiction came to light and probably shouldn’t have gone back to work.My husband fishes in Alaska too and I know how stressful it truly is. Don’t you think the stress of having your whole crews lives(including your only sons!) on the line is more stress than anyone should have to bear??? I’m sure with your army career you know that but prob didn’t have your only children in that situation either. Sorry for the rant but I lost my mom to cancer when she was only 50 and to make someone feel responsible for that is just sick, I can’t believe no one else commented on your post either. Why sit back and judge others, everyone has their trials and tribulations and personally I think it’s none of our damn business! Let the kid grieve for his father whom loved him to pieces and vice versa.

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