Naomie Olindo has been on Southern Charm for four seasons, first as a recurring cast member who was introduced as the girlfriend of Craig Conover. After their split, Naomie continued on the show and became a full-time cast member last season. Although Southern Charm fans initially got to know Naomie through her relationship and difficult breakup with Craig, she has taken on more of a role in the show over time.
We have seen Naomie complete her education and eventually open up her own clothing business. Last season, she shared her new romance with boyfriend Metul Shah. Another thing we have learned about Naomie is the strong connection she has with her parents. Her mother and father appeared on Southern Charm several times, including when they were opening up a restaurant in the Charleston area, which Naomie was involved in. Sadly, Naomie just shared some heartbreaking news about her father.
Naomie posted on Instagram that her father, Joel Olindo, has passed away. She shared, “I lost a piece of my heart last Friday. After privately fighting esophageal cancer for 12 excruciating months, my dad lost the only fight he’s ever lost. He died peacefully surrounded by people that loved him more than words can explain. I missed him before he was even gone, and I can’t imagine what this road will be like.”
Losing a parent is one of the hardest things you will go through in life. It was clear from Naomie’s father’s time on the show that the two of them were close and shared a special bond.
Naomie went on to say, “If someone you love is fighting this horrible disease, please know my heart is with you and it truly aches for you. There aren’t really words for this pain but I’m very thankful for the kindness and love our friends and family have shown my mom and me during the most difficult time of our life.”
Sadly, Naomie is the second Southern Charm star to lose a parent in recent months. Co-star Kathryn Dennis lost her mother Allison in August after her battle with cancer.
In her Instagram post, Naomie announced memorial plans for her father. She stated, “A wake will be held in Joel’s honor on Saturday 1/4 at Nico from 11-1. If he impacted your life in a tiny way or in a big way, we would love to see you there to celebrate my dad, the most amazing person I have ever known.”
We would like to offer condolences to Naomie and her family during this difficult time.
TELL US–IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH NAOMIE? DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OF HER FATHER JOEL FROM THE SHOW?
[Photo Credit: Bravo]