Net Worth: $6 Million
Category: Richest Politicians › Republicans
Birthdate: August 11, 1962 (62 years old)
Birthplace: Charleston, South Carolina, U.S.
Profession: Politician, Businessman, Reality TV Star
Nationality: United States of America
Overview
Thomas Ravenel is a former South Carolina State Treasurer, real estate developer, and reality television personality with a net worth of $6 million. Known for his tenure on Bravo’s “Southern Charm”, Ravenel’s career has spanned politics, business, and reality TV. However, his life has been marked by legal controversies and scandals that have shaped his public image.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Ravenel was born in Charleston, South Carolina, to Louise and Arthur Ravenel Jr., a former U.S. Congressman. He grew up in a politically active family alongside his five siblings.
- High School: Ravenel was a student-athlete, serving as captain of both the wrestling and football teams.
- College Education:
- The Citadel: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (1985)
- University of South Carolina: M.B.A. in Real Estate and Finance (1991)
Career
Ravenel Development Corporation
Thomas founded the Ravenel Development Corporation in 1992, focusing on commercial real estate. The company boasts completion of 65 retail projects across 10 states, establishing his financial foundation before entering politics.
Political Career
- 2004 U.S. Senate Run:
Finished third in the Republican primary. - South Carolina State Treasurer (2006):
Defeated incumbent Grady Patterson to win the position. However, his tenure was cut short due to legal troubles. - 2014 U.S. Senate Run:
Ran again but received less than 4% of the vote.
Reality Television
In 2014, Ravenel joined Bravo’s “Southern Charm”, a reality series offering a glimpse into the lives of Charleston’s elite. He starred in the first five seasons and appeared briefly in the seventh season. Ravenel reportedly earned $25,000 per episode, totaling 67 episodes during his time on the show.
Legal Issues and Scandals
Cocaine Distribution Charges
In 2007, Ravenel was indicted on federal charges for conspiring to buy and distribute cocaine. He entered a rehabilitation program and later pled guilty to the charges. In 2008, he was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison.
Sexual Battery Allegations
- In 2018, Thomas faced multiple allegations of sexual battery, including incidents involving a former nanny and a real estate agent.
- He settled one case for $200,000 and was fined $500 in another after pleading guilty to third-degree assault and battery.
Personal Life
Ravenel has had a tumultuous personal life marked by high-profile relationships and custody battles:
- Marriage: Married to Mary Ryan Ravenel (1995–1998).
- Children:
- Two children with Kathryn Calhoun Dennis, his “Southern Charm” co-star.
- One child with Heather Mascoe.
- In 2023, Ravenel was awarded sole custody of his children with Dennis, citing her negligent parenting.
Real Estate
Ravenel has invested heavily in historic and luxury properties:
- The Balcony (2020):
Purchased for $1.8 million, the 10,552 sq. ft. mansion in Aiken, South Carolina, sits on 5.85 acres and includes stables and a guesthouse. - Brookland Plantation (Edisto Island):
Sold in 2021 for $3.4 million. The 60-acre property featured a polo field, horse barn, and a two-bedroom apartment.
Legacy
Thomas Ravenel’s career has been a mix of highs and lows, with significant achievements in real estate and politics overshadowed by legal troubles and personal controversies. Despite this, his role on “Southern Charm” brought him fame and solidified his place in pop culture. Ravenel’s story is a complex one of ambition, scandal, and resilience.
