Former “Southern Charm” star Jarrett “JT” Thomas shocked fans by moving to Bali, Indonesia, in November. In an Instagram video sharing his major life update, Thomas revealed, “I have pulled the ripcord and I am living in Bali. Just retired. Retired, living in Bali, after living my whole life in the US.”
Since his move, the Bravo star has faced backlash on social media, with harsh comments accusing him of seeking attention and even dragging up his on-screen romance with his former co-star Venita Aspen. Despite the negativity, Thomas is brushing it off, embracing a fresh perspective and a new chapter in his life.
Jarrett ‘JT’ Thomas Is Brushing off All the Negativity
Former “Southern Charm” star Jarrett “JT” Thomas has now lived in Bali for a little over a month, keeping fans updated on his new life chapter on Instagram. Despite his move across the world, Thomas continues to face criticism from online trolls.
In a post, Thomas is seen working out in a gym while showcasing all the hate he’s received on his social media. These comments range from trolls commenting on his “Southern Charm” past to suggesting he should remain in Bali for good, as he kicks off every video with: “Retired, living in Bali, because my country is imploding.”
Thomas captioned his video, “You’ll never find a hater in life doing better than you. Thankful to all the haters for their perpetual reminder (s) – and a reminder that what doesn’t kill your spirit, makes you stronger.”
He added, “Peace and Love from Bali ❤️🌱,” signaling that he’s unbothered by the online hate and staying positive during this major life transition.
As fans can recall, Thomas appeared in seasons 9 and 10 of “Southern Charm,” where he faced criticism for his handling of a romantic relationship with Venita Aspen, ultimately shocking her by ghosting her and dating someone else. He also clashed with several co-stars, including Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, and Craig Conover.
Thomas Opened up to Tom Schwartz About Moving to Bali
Thomas had a deep conversation on Tom Schwartz’s “Detox/Retox” podcast about the decision to sell everything he owned to move to “a secret garden in Bali.”
“For 40 years, I sort of did the American dream thing, and part of the American dream thing is just to accumulate, accumulate, accumulate, go make money. It’s like you’re on this rat race, seeking happiness through accumulation… but at some point you just go, how much do I really need?” Thomas began.
Thomas told Schwartz that one of the major reasons he left the U.S. was witnessing the “major divide” within the country, a sentiment he often opens his videos with, saying his nation is “imploding,” a comment that has drawn both criticism and praise.
Thomas began to reflect on questions like, “How do I want to spend this great gift called life?” Ultimately, he decided to take control of his own narrative, choosing to move to a place of peace and tranquility. “So far, after 18 days, it looks like a pretty good move,” he told the host.
Touching on the subject of reality TV, Thomas admitted that he would “1000% go back and do the whole thing over again,” showing how grateful he was to be given the opportunity despite the way his storyline concluded.
