Joseph Malinowski, also known as “Lieutenant Dan” online, has amassed a massive following after surviving two major hurricanes in his small boat
A TikTok star known as “Lieutenant Dan” has now survived two dangerous hurricanes in a row from his small sailboat he has positioned in Tampa in lieu of constant pleas from followers and public figures to evacuate. His stubbornness may have just opened a path to a new career on the internet.
The man, Joseph Malinowski who also goes by Jay, was determined to stay on his boat as both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton ravaged the state. He was unwavering as he ignored the advice from Tampa police, politicians and his own TikTok following. Now that he has weathered two dangerous storms in a boat with a busted engine, he stands undefeated and poised to launch a career in livestreaming
That may be hard as the man has an extensive criminal background, including aggravated battery of a woman and assaulting a police deputy-landing him a one-year prison sentence in 2022.
The Tampa resident has a lengthy criminal history (
Getty Images)
Other TikTok users noticed Dan’s determination and posted it on their own accounts. University of Tampa Senior Terrence Concannon racked up millions of views documenting Dan’s battle against the elements. Before Hurricane Helene, he asked Dan what he had to say to the storm to which the lieutenant replied: F— you, you want me? Come and get me.”
Dan’s actions attracted the attention of popular Kick streamer Adin Ross who interviewed him on stream as Helene’s forceful howls could be heard in the background. Ross said he would buy Dan a brand-new boat worth anywhere between $50,000 and $100,000 and negotiate a deal with him regarding a career on the platform, of which Ross is a stakeholder.
Dan was interviewed by two social media indluencers before braving the storms (
Getty Images)
It’s assumed Dan would use his following to document his maritime adventures on his boat. His nickname comes from the critically acclaimed movie Forrest Gump, in which the protagonist joins the military amid the Vietnam war and meets his platoon leader Lieutenant Dan Taylor.
Taylor quickly asserts himself as a man of honor and tradition, telling Forrest someone from his family has fought and died in every American war up until that point. That detail draws a parallel to the rising internet star who refused to abandon ship despite the dissent of thousands.
Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sports and entertainment stories
Authorities warned Dan that he was going to die if he didn’t evacuate