If you haven’t already herad, Southern Charm’s cast is changing things up for season 8, with an old cast member returning and the chance of a few new faces. Because of the lovely subtleties of Charleston, South Carolina, and the wild and wacky ways of some of its citizens, the Bravo series, which aired in 2014, has captivated audiences for years.
After Cameran Eubanks left the series before season 7, Kathryn Dennis, Shep Rose, and Craig Conover are the only original cast members still alive. After being arrested and pleading guilty to assault charges in 2018, Thomas Ravenel also left the show.
Despite losing some big names, Southern Charm has kept the drama high, and owing to the additions of Austen Kroll and his ex-girlfriend Madison LeCroy, fans are still tuning in to see what happens next. Fans got to meet John Pringle and Cameran’s companion Leva Bonaparte last season.
However, when it comes to Season 8, the performers have hinted that more upheaval is on the way.
Craig and Austen made news in late 2020 for their friendship with Kristin Cavallari, and the lawyer told Us Weekly exclusively that Cavallari could appear on the reality show.
Craig stated in April 2021, “It’s not ruled out at all.” “Yeah, if [she and her BFF Justin Anderson] are at the party.” I believe you’ll get to see a good number of our pals from the last six months, which will be a lot of fun.”
For her part, the Laguna Beach alum told Us that she had no intentions to appear in the film.
“They say ‘never say never,’ but I can certainly say I’ll never do Southern Charm,” Cavallari told Us exclusively the same month. “Craig is my favourite. I’m not sure! I’m not sure why he was saying that.”
Craig’s girlfriend, Paige DeSorbo, and some of their Winter House cast mates may join for an episode or two, though the Hills alum isn’t planning another Charleston visit just yet.
Craig told Us in October 2021 that “Bravo is kind of the new Marvel world [with] everyone becoming buddies,” implying that a crossover on Southern Charm could happen. “I think everyone who enjoys watching it has some pretty exciting stuff coming up in the next few months.”
Who’s In?
Shep, Kathryn, and Craig are set to return, according to Bravo’s cast roster. Austen, who debuted in season four, and Madison, who debuted in season six, are both returning, as are season seven newcomers John and Leva.
Naomie Olindo Is Back!
Naomie will appear on the show from time to time this season, Us confirmed in September 2021, after leaving the show following season 6 in 2020. “It’s been agreed that Naomie will appear on the show, but not as a full-time cast member,” a source close to production told Us exclusively at the time. “On the show, her character is more of a friend.”
Will Paige DeSorbo Make an Appearance?
“Well, I’m in a relationship with a Southern Charm contestant.” So you’ll definitely see me show up here and there, but we’ll see,” Paige said in an exclusive interview with Us in October 2021. “Everyone Craig goes out with is unbelievably friendly to me. “I’ve met almost everyone.”
‘Winter House’ Drama?
Craig, who filmed Winter House with Austen in February 2021, hinted that the mens’ drama on the spinoff series could carry over to season 8 of the Charleston-based show.
How Madison LeCroy’s Fiance’s Family Feels About Their Engagement
“It’s fun because you have a Winter House, a Summer House, and then Southern Charm.” So it’s a little nerve-wracking, but I’m also really eager to see everyone again,” the founder of Sewing Down South exclusively told Us in October 2021. “You’ll see how our dynamics from Winter House play out this summer, and who knows how it will turn out.”
Relationship Updates
Naomie, who used to date Craig, split from lover Metul Shah after three years of dating, according to Us.
Madison, Austen’s ex, stated in October 2021, after seven months of dating, that she is engaged to Brett Randle.
Filming Has Begun
Craig and Austen stated that they were filming the new season in Charleston during their Winter House viewing party in October 2021. The duo decided to stay in town and shoot instead of attending the premiere celebration for the spinoff series.
Keeping Things Light
“This season, new friends have joined our friend group, and we’re just getting started.” Austen told Decider in October 2021, “We’ve had a couple of meet-ups and nothing really insane, I don’t believe,” saying that the cast had been filming for three weeks. “I’m not sure what everyone else is recording when I’m not there, but I believe we’re trying to keep it lighter this year than previous.” There were a number of fights last year, which was quite weighty and foreboding.”
Some of the actors talked before filming began, according to the cohost of the “Pillows and Beer” podcast, in the hopes of making things more positive. “‘Can we just have a little more fun, guys?’ we said. Can we be friends because we’re truly friends and people enjoy to watch us being friends?’ And I think a lot of people have that perspective,” he said, adding that in season 8, spectators will watch his beer adventure continue on television.
The Naomie/Craig Factor
Craig revealed how his girlfriend is surviving following her ugly breakup from Metul during his interview on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen in October 2021.
“She’s been overjoyed. He remarked, “I think she’s relieved in an odd sense.” “She’s glad to be back in Charleston, and everything happens for a reason.” I don’t believe she was in a happy relationship. But I think she’s just relieved to be back in her own skin.”
Austen was asked the following night on WWHL if there had been any “sparks” between Craig and Naomie since she returned to Charleston. “This is something that’s being discussed on Southern Charm, and we’re filming right now, so I won’t and can’t talk about it,” he replied.
It’s a Wrap
In December 2021, Leva posted a photo to her Instagram Story revealing that filming for Season 8 has wrapped after a winter wrap party. Following the party, the restaurateur raised a few eyebrows when she unfollowed Kathryn, Craig, Austen, Madison, Venita Aspen, and Paige.
Craig’s Post-Filming Tease
Craig guaranteed that season 8 will provide the same enthusiasm as the series’ early years during an interview on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen in March 2022. He also stated that he was “a strong supporter” of his ex-girlfriend Naomie’s homecoming.
“She apologised to everyone she needed to apologise to. And she uttered all that everyone had wished she would say to me. And it’s fantastic. She expressed regret. And he was forthright about it,” he stated. “It brings it all together, and I believe people will love this season.”
How Many Episodes Will There Be?
In March 2022, Austen stated that fans will see 16 episodes this season. During a stop on his and Craig’s podcast tour, he promised, “Lots of drama ahead.” “It’s going to be a long season.”
Season 8 Trailer
In May 2022, Bravo released the first trailer for the next season, which featured dramatic fights between Austen and Craig and Austen and Shep. Craig and Naomie confront one other over their rumoured hookup, while Craig tries to maintain his relationship with Paige.
Shep, on the other hand, is in hot trouble as Taylor, his girlfriend, begins to “doubt everything” about their relationship. Madison, despite being engaged, appears to be envious of Austen’s new flame, Olivia Flowers, while Kathryn’s relationship with Chleb is in jeopardy.
Season 8 of Southern Charm starts on Bravo on Thursday, June 23 at 9 p.m. ET.
