Bravo Reportedly Putting 'Southern Charm' on Hiatus as They Search for Thomas Ravenel Replacement

Southern Charm

Southern Charm, the hit show filmed in Charleston, South Carolina, is taking a break in order to create the same drama-filled television that Thomas Ravenel evoked. Since Ravenel was accused of sexual assault and was subsequently booted from the show, the ratings have not been quite where Bravo would like them. During their break, which interrupts plans for filming the upcoming season, the show is looking to find a replacement for Ravenel. This, of course, will not be an easy task.

Gettyimages | Bravo

Thomas Ravenel, a member of the famous Ravenel family, is Charleston royalty. But this has not prevented Bravo from pulling him from the cast lineup in the wake of the sexual assault allegations that surfaced. As a result of his absence on the show, the ratings for Southern Charm have steadily suffered. Even with the presence of Kathryn Dennis, Ravenel's ex and former costar, and other mainstays, the lack of drama is leading viewers and fans to opt for other shows. So what's Bravo's plan moving forward?

Gettyimages | Aaron Davidson

The first move by Bravo to replace the trouble-making Ravenel was to raid other members of the family. Specifically, they targeted Ravenel's cousin, Lee Ravenel, but ultimately that strategy didn't work out. In speaking with social media outlets, Ravenel shared what happened when Bravo went after his cousin and his thoughts on the role being turned down. Ravenel shared, "I heard my first cousin, Lee Ravenel, turned down an invitation to be on Southern Charm. I knew he got all the looks in the family. Now I know he got all the brains too."

From the looks of things, it appears that Bravo is getting desperate in their attempts to replace Ravenel. Whether or not they will be able to land a drama-generating cast member has yet to be seen. Regardless of who they eventually tap moving forward, it will be very difficult to replicate the on-the-screen drama, as well as, the behind-the-scenes aspects. Despite the ratings falling, Bravo is ensuring that the cast members who are still with the show, including Kathryn Dennis and Shep Rose, cash in.

Bravo

Bravo announced that cast members Kathryn Dennis, Shep Rose, Craig Conover, and Cameran Eubanks will be making upwards of $485,000 for the upcoming season. While this sounds like the show is doing just fine, there is a catch. This salary will only be paid if the cast is able to deliver riveting television in the drama department. If not, Bravo is considering pulling the show for good. With Bravo setting their sights on the replacement for Ravenel, there are sure to be additional updates before filming begins for the upcoming season.