Venita Aspen of "Southern Charm" found herself less than enchanted by recent remarks made by her co-star Craig Conover. In an interview with Deadline on April 2nd, the 31-year-old Aspen expressed her "disappointment" following Conover's, 36, declaration that he would sever ties with her after she showed solidarity with his ex-girlfriend Paige DeSorbo during their recent split.
"In the realm of friendship, I don't operate with such ultimatums, whether it's a fledgling friendship, an old one, or one that's been through ups and downs," Aspen shared. "I would have preferred it if Conover, as the de facto leader, had guided us in the direction he saw fit, rather than deeming those who disagree with him unworthy of his friendship. Since we don't communicate, what else was I supposed to do?" she added.
During a March appearance on "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen," Aspen revealed that she had reached out to DeSorbo, a fellow "Southern Charm" cast member, but not to Conover himself. "My bond with Paige is stronger than my bond with Craig," Aspen admitted.
Last week, Conover shared his stance during his own "WWHL" segment. "To be honest, I'm choosing not to associate with her. As I grow older, my circle of friends becomes increasingly close-knit. Supporting Paige isn't the issue; one can be friends with Paige," he said, accusing Aspen of spreading rumors about him. "We're not friends anymore. I wish her all the best, but friendship isn't something anyone is entitled to, and it certainly isn't something she's entitled to anymore," he added.
Aspen noted that DeSorbo, a star of "Summer House," contacted her after Conover's "WWHL" appearance. "She was quite upset by what she saw and reached out to check on me, which was incredibly sweet," Aspen recounted.
As for the current state of her relationship with Conover, Aspen emphasized that the initiative to mend bridges lies with him. "It would have to come from him, as I've never been one to shut him out or declare disinterest in friendship based on past comments," she clarified. "If he decides to take the time to schedule a chat, call, or even text—like most people do—I would deeply appreciate it. But I won't be the one to make the first move. He's already stated his stance. So, who would dare contradict that?"
