Southern Charm’s Craig Conover will now be stepping behind the camera in a new and surprising role.
Deadline reported on Sept. 9 that the Charleston-based Bravoleb launched his own reality TV production company, Plaid Horse Productions, with some pretty big names attached.
When sharing the news on Instagram, Craig stated, “’You didn’t come this far to play small.'”
Then, in his official statement, he added, “After spending over a decade in front of the camera, it feels awesome to be stepping behind the scenes and getting involved from day one—helping shape the vision, build out the programming, and connect with the right people. Being part of something from the ground up like this is really exciting, and honestly, I couldn’t ask for a better team to bring Plaid Horse Productions to life.”
The company will focus on unscripted series, as well as competition shows and social experiments, according to Deadline.
What’s more, Craig’s longtime biz partner, Sewing Down South co-founder and CEO Jerry Casselano, will serve as the new venture’s president.
What else is new in Craig Conover’s career
News of the production company is just the latest of Craig’s many business-related endeavors. On top of the aforementioned pillow and lifestyle brand, he and Pillows & Beer podcast co-host Austen Kroll just opened The Waverly wedding venue in Charleston, in addition to their roles as investors and owners in multiple restaurants.
Related: Craig Conover Reveals “Fun” Update on Sewing Down South & New Clothing Line (EXCLUSIVE)
Who else is involved in Craig Conover’s Plaid Horse Productions?
There are some heavy hitters involved in Craig’s new production company. Plaid Horse Productions will be joined by Media Trifecta, a Toronto-based production company helmed by Cash Cab and Ghost Hunters of the Grand River producer Sharone Ostrovsky, according to its website. Of the new partnership, the new co-CEO Ostrovsky said, “Craig has proven himself to be a true creative force—he knows what makes stories connect, what makes talent undeniable, and how to deliver ideas that feel fresh, surprising, and built for today’s demanding audiences. The response from our early conversations with buyers has already confirmed that his instincts are spot on, and we can’t wait to bring this slate to market.”
CCO Kevin Healey, who once produced NBC’s Betty White’s Off Their Rockers, per IMDB, plus development consultant Mary Hanna, who once worked with The Real Housewives of New York City’s Jenna Lyons on her Stylish series on HBO Max, is also attached to Craig’s new brand.
Bravolebs react to Craig Conover’s new career shift
News of Craig’s career shift has brought tons of support from Bravolebs, but one castmate was especially surprised.
Related: Craig Conover and Naomie Olindo Shed New Light on Their Friendship Today
Southern Charm-er Shep Rose — from his fishing trip in Alaska — jumped into the comment section of Craig’s Instagram announcement, stating, “Why am I learning this on the ’Gram? Answer – because I would have probably screwed up the deal somehow if I knew beforehand.” He added a blushing smiley face to show he meant only great things.
Million Dollar Listing New York’s Ryan Serhant wondered from Craig, “Can I play you in the biopic?” while Below Deck Sailing Yacht’s Alex Propson — who, like Craig, appeared on Winter House — called the move “Big time.”
News of Craig’s transition behind the camera comes just days after Craig and SC costar Madison LeCroy were tapped as guest judges for Season 23 of Top Chef. Still, Craig finds the time to rest between work demands, including when he and Austen joined Vanderpump Rules’ Tom Schwartz for a wild trip to Las Vegas.