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Austen Kroll is opening up about his friendship with Craig Conover. The season premiere of Southern Charm was everything fans expected and more—chaotic, dramatic, and filled with lingering tension. With the show now entering its 10th season, the cast is navigating new dynamics, old grudges, and, in some cases, unresolved friendships. Austen Kroll, ever the candid star, is opening up about where things stand between him and his co-stars, particularly Craig Conover. The premiere may have set the stage, but it’s Austen’s thoughts behind the scenes that are quickly becoming the talking points of this season.
As he makes his rounds promoting the new season, Austen Kroll reflects on the years he’s spent with Craig, his old friend-turned-occasional rival. While their bromance had been a fan favorite in earlier seasons, things have shifted in recent years, and Austen isn’t afraid to admit it.
“I just wish he’d find more balance in his life,” Austen confesses during an interview with US Weekly. “Craig’s kind of a hermit. I get that his business is his priority, but it’s like he thinks ‘hanging out’ means hitting the bar and getting wasted together. Honestly, I don’t care if he drinks or not—I just wish we could have dinner together, you know? Like regular people.”
For Austen, the issue isn’t just about how much Craig works, but how little room he makes for his friends. “It makes me look like I just want to hang out more, which, maybe it does make me look like a kid, but the message is clear.” Austen pauses, a slight chuckle escaping him. “I want my friend back, the one who used to care about the simple things.”
The topic inevitably shifts to success, and Austen isn’t shy about addressing the impact it’s had on Craig. “Yes, success has definitely changed him,” he admits, though there’s no malice in his voice. “He got a taste of success, and I’m happy for him. I know people are probably gonna say ‘oh, he’s just jealous,’ but it’s not like that. Sure, I want my beer to sell like his products, but it’s more about the way he’s acting now. I think he feels like he has to be this guy, this ‘brand,’ all the time.”
Do you understand where Austen is coming from when talking about his friendship with Craig?
