Intense Confrontation at Southern Charm’s Literary Costume Party
On December 3, a heated exchange unfolded between Craig Conover and Austen Kroll during a literary-themed costume event on the Bravo series Southern Charm. Craig, 36, dressed as Rufio from Hook, and Austen, 38, as Hermione Granger from Harry Potter, clashed over personal jabs and relationship issues.
Conflict Ignites
The argument began when Craig made a remark about Austen’s relationship with his ex, Audrey Pratt, after Austen joked about Craig’s party habits as a single man. Craig accused Austen of jealousy, saying, “Austen’s so jealous,” for everyone at the party to hear.
Despite Austen’s denial of envy, Craig was unconvinced. “You’re so jealous. You’re locked up now in your house. You and your kittens,” Craig quipped, referencing Austen’s new role as a cat owner and his relationship with Audrey.
Escalating Tensions
Austen retorted, “Craig, You’ve been locked up for five years, all of sudden he emerges, and he’s having fun,” alluding to Craig’s newfound social life following his 2024 breakup with Paige DeSorbo.
Craig responded, emphasizing his enjoyment of life, “I’m being myself, I’m having late nights at my house, praying with everyone. It’s been a blast. So for you to hate on fun is silly.”
Verbal Exchange Continues
Austen, clad in a schoolgirl skirt and Harry Potter-style scarf, insisted he wasn’t “mad” at Craig but accused him of looking “insane” for yelling publicly. Craig accused Austen of being “the only unhappy person here because you’re living a lie,” citing his relationship with Audrey.
The confrontation escalated with Craig asserting, “Happy people don’t tear people down. You’re not happy,” to which Austen replied, “And here you are, tearing people down.”
As Craig departed, he shouted, “I hope you find happiness one day,” to which Austen retorted, “I hope you do too, Craig, I really do. You d***,” as Craig exited, calling Austen a “f***ing loser.”
Pet Ownership and Relationship Strains
The dispute followed Craig’s prediction that Austen’s new role as a cat owner could negatively impact his relationships. “Austen, that’s the kiss of death! My last three ex-girlfriends have gotten a cat right before breaking up with me,” Craig warned.
Austen clarified that acquiring a pet was his decision, not a joint one with Audrey. During the filming of season 11, rumors circulated about Austen and Audrey’s split, which Austen later confirmed, stating it was due to long-distance challenges.
Southern Charm airs on Bravo Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET.
