'Southern Charm' Star Kathryn Dennis: A Journey Through Life's Challenges

'Southern Charm' Star Kathryn Dennis’ Ups and Downs Over the Years: From Her Custody Battle to a DUI

Kathryn Dennis. Courtesy of Kathryn Dennis/Instagram

Kathryn Dennis, known for her appearances on Southern Charm, has had her fair share of highs and lows in the spotlight.

She first appeared on the Bravo network in 2014 as a "friend of" the Southern Charm cast. The following year, she became a main cast member as her relationship with Thomas Ravenel unfolded on screen.

Through the course of the show, Dennis experienced some happy moments such as the arrival of her two children. However, she also had to deal with conflicts with Landon Clements and Ashley Jacobs, as well as personal challenges involving disputes with Ravenel.

After being a part of the show for eight seasons, Dennis shared in January 2023 that she would be leaving.

It's been quite a journey! When I first began filming Southern Charm at 21 years old in 2013, little did I know the impact it would have on my life. Looking back over the past decade, I can truly say that it has been a transformative experience beyond my wildest dreams. Reality cameras have captured both unforgettable moments and some that I'd rather forget.

Throughout the years, Dennis has faced controversies both on the show and in real life. Here's a closer look at the full breakdown:

Kathryn and Thomas Ravenel's Relationship

Fans of Southern Charm witnessed Kathryn's relationship with Thomas Ravenel unfold on the show. However, there was a lot more happening offscreen during their nearly three-year romance, which lasted from 2013 to 2016. Their relationship was characterized by ups and downs, starting with the significant 29-year age gap between them.

'Southern Charm' Star Kathryn Dennis’ Ups and Downs Over the Years: From Her Custody Battle to a DUI

Courtesy of Kathryn Dennis/Instagram

Becoming a Mother

Dennis and Ravenel welcomed their first child, a daughter named Kensington Calhoun, in March 2014. Their second child, a son named Saint Julian, in November 2015.

A Stint in Rehab

Amid Dennis and Ravenel’s custody battle, she sought treatment for substance abuse. Her sobriety journey was documented during seasons 4 and 5 of Southern Charm.

Gaining Joint Custody

After their breakup in 2016, Dennis initially lost custody of her two children. This led to a difficult and contentious legal battle between the former partners. However, things took a positive turn the next year when Dennis was granted 50/50 custody after completing a rehabilitation program.

In October 2018, Dennis sought sole custody of the kids after Ravenel was arrested for assault and battery following an alleged 2015 incident with the children’s nanny. The suit was settled in 2019.

As their custody battle continued, the two accused each other of having drug problems. Eventually, they agreed to joint custody of their two kids in August 2019. However, Ravenel’s lawyer confirmed in March 2021 there had been a change and Dennis no longer had custody of the children. She was granted supervised weekend visitation with the children.

Sending Racially Insensitive Messages

Dennis sent radio host Tamika Gadsden a monkey emoji during an argument in 2020.

Dennis apologized for using a monkey emoji in his text, acknowledging that it was offensive and expressing sincere apologies to those who were hurt by it. He stated that even though it was not his intention, there was no excuse for his actions. Dennis admitted that he did not think about the impact of his words, recognizing that it was wrong. He emphasized that he is not that kind of person and is committed to learning from his mistake and doing better in the future.

Reflecting on a Mistake

In May 2024, TMZ reported that Dennis was arrested in Goose Creek, South Carolina for allegedly driving under the influence. According to court documents obtained by the publication, she was in a three-car collision, but further details were not disclosed.

Editor's P/S:

Kathryn Dennis's journey on "Southern Charm" has been a rollercoaster ride filled with both personal triumphs and controversies. Her relationship with Thomas Ravenel, the birth of her two children, and her custody battle have been central storylines throughout the show's eight seasons. Dennis has faced challenges with substance abuse and has been accused of sending racially insensitive messages, but she has also shown resilience and a commitment to growth.

Dennis's departure from the show marks the end of an era for "Southern Charm." She has been a fan favorite and a source of both entertainment and controversy. Her absence will certainly be felt, but it is clear that she is ready for a new chapter in her life. She has shown that she is a strong and determined woman, and she is sure to find success in whatever she chooses to do next.