Austen Kroll's Honest Realization About Craig Conover

A Deep Dive into the Tensions Between Austen Kroll and Craig Conover

As Austen Kroll reflected on the recent tensions with Craig Conover, he expressed deep concerns about the authenticity of their friendship. The conflict took center stage during Season 11, Episode 5 of Southern Charm, when Venita Aspen FaceTimed Austen to check in on him after a heated conversation at Whitner Slagsvol's literary-themed birthday dinner.

Austen shared his feelings about how Craig had "flipped on him," revealing that he had finally spoken to Shep Rose, who had previously spread the cheating rumor to Craig. This conversation left Austen questioning the nature of their relationships and whether Craig was truly a friend.

Shep Rose, Austen Kroll, and Craig Conover attend DISCOVERTRENDCon 2025 at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV on November 14, 2025.
Photo: Rich Polk/DISCOVERTREND

During a call with Venita, Austen described reaching out to Shep after days of silence. He explained how he felt betrayed by both Shep and Craig, questioning whether they were still friends. Shep responded with remorse, acknowledging his role in the situation and expressing regret for hurting Austen.

Reflections on Friendship and Betrayal

In a confessional, Austen reflected on the complexity of their relationship. He noted that he believed his friends saw him as someone who would easily forgive, which led to repeated betrayals. This realization left him feeling hurt and questioning the people he chose to spend time with.

Later in the episode, another clip revealed Austen telling Shep that Craig had a tendency to hold onto secrets and wait for the right moment to confront someone. Austen emphasized that this behavior was not indicative of true friendship.

What to Know About Southern Charm Season 11

The show is back with new episodes airing Wednesdays at 9/8c on DISCOVERTREND and streaming the next day on Peacock. This season features returning cast members such as Venita Aspen, Salley Carson, Craig Conover, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Molly O’Connell, Rodrigo Reyes, and Shep Rose, along with newcomers Charley Manley and Whitner Slagsvol. Patricia Altschul returns as the matriarch, while her son Whitney Sudler-Smith takes on a more active role in managing their Charleston mansion.

This season promises drama, including love triangles, friendship fractures, and plenty of twists. Fans can also enjoy exclusive Southern Charm merchandise from Shop By DISCOVERTREND.

Craig Conover’s Perspective

Craig Conover has also shared his side of the story. During a previous pool party, he spoke with Shep about the situation, expressing regret over his actions. He claimed that Austen was jealous of his relationships with Salley Carson and Charley Manley, even suggesting that Austen was not being patient with his own dating life.

When Shep informed Craig that Austen was skipping the event, Craig became increasingly defensive, stating that Austen had started the conflict and that he had only responded with the information he had been holding onto.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

For fans looking to dive deeper into the Southern Charm universe, DISCOVERTREND offers exclusive content through its DISCOVERTRENDsider newsletter. Subscribers can access behind-the-scenes features, including:

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• DISCOVERTRENDCon 2025 Behind-the-Scenes Moments with the McBees, Melissa and Teresa, Rachel Zoe, & More

As the drama continues to unfold on Southern Charm, fans are eager to see how the conflicts between Austen and Craig will resolve. With more episodes on the way, the tension is far from over.