Ashley Malinowski, the daughter of internet sensation “Lieutenant Dan,” has issued a heartfelt plea for help, fearing that the fame her father has gained on TikTok could jeopardize his safety. In an emotional video posted on October 11, Ashley expressed her concerns about the potential dangers associated with viral fame, emphasizing her father’s past struggles following a psychotic breakdown years ago.
Ashley insisted that her father is not a drug addict, but rather someone who experienced severe health issues after abruptly stopping his medication. “He cut his medications off cold turkey. And when that happened, he had a psychotic breakdown,” she explained through tears. She warned viewers that the attention and financial gains stemming from his online popularity could lead to dire consequences, even death. “You’re gonna put him in the grave early for making him famous, giving him this money, and offering him this stuff,” she lamented.
During her emotional appeal, Ashley criticized TikTok users and influencers who share her father’s videos, stating that they are exploiting him to gain their own fame. Despite the challenges, Lieutenant Dan has amassed over 550,000 followers on TikTok, with his recent videos racking up millions of views.
In a twist of fate, streamer Adin Ross had previously pledged $100,000 and a streaming deal to Lt. Dan after his story went viral, largely due to videos shared by TikTok creator Tampa Terrence. Before Hurricane Milton hit, Lt. Dan had explained his decision to stay on his boat, and after the storm passed, fans eagerly awaited Ross’s promised contributions. However, when Lt. Dan’s criminal record, which includes multiple assault and battery charges, surfaced, speculation arose that Ross might reconsider his offer.
Addressing the rumors in a recent online event, Ross affirmed his commitment, stating, “Everyone has a history!” He reassured fans that he would still provide Lt. Dan with the boat and honor his other commitments.
In the wake of Malinowski’s viral fame, Lt. Dan has made appearances on major news networks like the Weather Channel and CNN. Inspired by his story, Concannon launched a GoFundMe campaign to help purchase a new vessel for him, which has raised over $40,000 as of October 10. The campaign’s message reads, “His current vessel has seen better days, and we want to surprise him with a new boat to continue his seafaring adventures. Let’s come together and show our support for this modern-day pirate by helping him get a new ship to sail the seas!”
