Why Did Max Leave Catfish? What Led to the Departure?

Why Did Max Leave Catfish? Catfish viewers were taken aback in 2018 when Nev Schulman’s longstanding co-host Max Joseph announced his departure from the show after seven seasons. Thankfully, the MTV reality show continued despite his departure, and they found methods to function without Schulman’s other half.

If you’re still curious about Joseph’s departure or his replacement, we’ve got answers. Here’s everything you need to know about the departure of the former Catfish host and the woman who took his place.

Why Did Max Leave Catfish?

Max Joseph announced his retirement from Catfish after six seasons on the show with Nev Schulman. Joseph announced his departure in an Instagram post in 2018.

In the post, he stated that sadly the time has come for him to move on from Catfish. Working on the show for seven years gave him one of the most meaningful experiences of his life.

According to him, he has learned several things about himself, his country, and human nature in general. He and Nev became brothers and their bromance has blossomed before their eyes.

Joseph announced at the time that he was quitting the MTV show to focus on his work as a host and a filmmaker; he’s worked on several short films and produced his first feature-length film, We Are Your Friends, in 2015, starring Zac Efron and Emily Ratajkowski.

Who is Kamie Crawford?

Kamie Crawford, the new official Catfish co-host, is a former Miss Teen USA and beauty pageant winner. And she’s heard all of your concerns regarding Max Joseph’s whereabouts, as well as a Twitter meme.

“Stop asking where @maxjoseph is,” she joked. I told you I had him bound and held hostage in my broom closet. I don’t want to keep bringing this up. It irritates both me and my homegirl!”

Crawford first appeared on Catfish as a guest host alongside Nev Schulman in 2019. Crawford revealed in January that she would be joining MTV as a full-time, permanent host of Catfish.

“NO ONE will ever be able to replace @maxjoseph, but I feel so blessed and excited to be @NevSchulman’s new sidekick!!!” she tweeted at the time.

What is Max Currently Doing?

Before leaving the show, Max had filmed a number of documentary short films and one feature-length documentary about DFA, the renowned NYC record company that catered to independent youngsters. He’s currently working on his wife’s accessory firm, MAXCILA, with his wife, Priscilla.

He hasn’t fully given up on filmmaking, either. He made a documentary short titled Dicks: Do You Need to Be One to Be a Successful Leader?

in 2017. The video essay was the first in his “Charismatic Thinker” series, which has thus far included videos on bookstores and signs. Max made another exciting announcement regarding a new filming project in late 2019:

Max and Monica Lewinsky began working on a documentary called 15 Minutes of Shame. It was supposed to be released in 2020, but then 2020 came.

As of today, the documentary is still listed as being in development on IMDb, and neither Max nor Monica has provided an update on it.

Final Words

The resignation of Max Joseph from Catfish in 2018 signified the end of an era for the famous MTV show. His appearance alongside Nev Schulman had become synonymous with the show, and his absence was mourned by fans all around the world.

While his decision to depart was ultimately motivated by a desire to pursue a career in filmmaking, it also reflected a shift in his own opinion of the show’s idea.

Despite his departure, Max’s reputation as a Catfish co-host is unmistakable. His distinct perspective and biting wit added depth and humor to the show.