Southern Charm season 10 episode 5 recap: Madison discusses Brett's health while tensions rise between Craig and Austen

Southern Charm is a reality TV series that airs on Bravo, offering a glimpse into the lives of Charleston's elite. The show revolves around the relationships, careers, and lavish lifestyles of the main cast members.

In the current season, familiar faces have returned, including Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, and Jarrett "JT" Thomas. They are joined by newcomers Salley Carson, Molly O'Connell, and Ryan Albert.

Southern Charm season 18 released episode 5 on January 9, 2025. In the latest segment, Craig Conover and Austen Kroll's friendship and working relationship hit a snag. Madison LeCroy got on a video call with her mother to discuss her husband Brett’s doctor visit and reveal that they found a tumor in his kidney.

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What happened in Southern Charm season 10 episode 5?

In episode 5, Austen expressed frustration that Craig couldn't handle criticism, which led to tension between the two. The issue stemmed from Austen accusing Craig of not making time for him outside of work and their podcast, Pillows & Beer, which they launched in 2021.

Austen confided in their mutual friend Shep Rose, stating that he didn't want to be in a toxic situation with his former close friend. Meanwhile, Craig and his then-girlfriend Paige DeSorbo hosted a backyard party, but Austen was absent from the guest list. Austen believed Craig's decision was a direct result of him speaking his mind.

“He’s not extending the invite to me because I told him something he didn’t want to hear,” Austen said in a confessional.

Craig was equally upset about the rift, sharing with Rodrigo Reyes that Austen's comment about him not being a good friend had struck a nerve. He added that he wouldn't pursue his friendship with Austen if the latter wasn't willing to meet him halfway.

Craig admitted that he was outgrowing their friendship. He discussed this situation with Madison LeCroy and shared that he felt Austen's comments were not only affecting their personal relationship but also impacting their joint podcast venture.

In another Southern Charm segment, Madison confided in her mother, Tara, about her husband Brett's recent doctor's visit. She revealed that there was a tumor on his kidney, leaving them both anxious and uncertain about the future. Madison shared the news about Brett's health. She struggled to hold back her emotions, confessing that the thought of losing him was unbearable.

"So, he did some blood work, and it didn't come back normal, and they found a tumor on his kidney. We don't know what it is, but still. So it's like, okay, like, I didn't start crying, or any you know, but if I lost him, I would die." confessed Madison.

Tara advised Madison to be a source of strength and love for Brett during this challenging time. She reflected on her own experiences with Madison's father, who had battled cancer, and said that she was regretful for not being able to do more for him on Southern Charm.

Madison later expressed her frustration and despair in a confessional, saying that this had been the worst year of her life. She was still reeling from her father's cancer diagnosis and subsequent passing, and now she faced the uncertainty of Brett's health. In a follow-up phone call with Tara, Madison sought reassurance and guidance.

Tara encouraged Madison to stay strong and focus on the positive outcome of Brett's treatment. As they concluded their conversation, Madison hinted that she might need something stronger than lemonade to cope with the stress.

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Southern Charm airs on Thursdays at 8 pm ET on Bravo.