Todd Chrisley, Reality TV Star and Business Mogul

Todd Chrisley is a larger-than-life reality television personality, real estate mogul, and father of five. As the patriarch on the hit show “Chrisley Knows Best,” Chrisley has become a pop culture sensation thanks to his over-the-top personality, sharp tongue, and dynamic relationship with his family.

Born on April 6, 1969, Chrisley had an difficult childhood and upbringing. But he soon became an ambitious entrepreneur, diving into real estate in his 20s and amassing a small fortune by managing portfolios for wealthy clients. After marrying Julie Chrisley in 1996, Todd would go on to have five children – including two children from a previous marriage.

Chrisley charms audiences with his dramatic antics, blunt honesty, and extreme dedication to his children. But underneath all the humor and hijinks, he deeply cares for his family. Here’s a closer look at Todd Chrisley’s background, career, relationships, controversies and the reasons he became a breakout reality star.

From Tough Childhood to Self-Made Millionaire

Todd Chrisley was born in Georgia and had a traumatic childhood with an alcoholic and abusive father. Despite this painful upbringing, Chrisley hustled to make his own way in the world. He got into real estate in his 20s and built a successful business, Chrisley Asset Management, managing money for wealthy clients.

With his charming personality and sharp business instincts, Todd became a self-made millionaire. But in the 2000s, he lost his fortune when he ran into major financial problems and declared bankruptcy with over $50 million in debt.

Even after his empire crumbled, Chrisley never gave up. He continued working in real estate and finance, slowly rebuilding his wealth one deal at a time.

Finding Reality TV Fame on "Chrisley Knows Best"

In 2014, Todd landed a starring role in the USA Network reality series “Chrisley Knows Best.” The show depicts Todd‘s over-the-top parenting methods with his lively children – Chase, Savannah and Grayson – along with wife Julie.

With its humor and family antics, “Chrisley Knows Best” became a surprise hit. Audiences loved Todd’s sarcastic one-liners and his dramatic reactions to his kids’ wild behavior. The show gave a glimpse into the family’s lavish lifestyle full of designer clothes, luxury cars and an enormous mansion.

Thanks to the show’s success, Todd has been able to launch a clothing line, books, music singles and more. He also draws large crowds at public appearances where fans hope to see his boisterous personality in action.

Legal Troubles and Controversies

But Todd’s new reality fame also brought intense scrutiny and legal troubles. In 2019, Todd and Julie were indicted on tax evasion charges, accused of hiding money from the IRS and committing bank fraud.

The Chrisleys pleaded not guilty, insisting they were framed by a former disgruntled employee. After delays due to COVID-19, their trial is now scheduled for 2023. If convicted, they face up to 30 years in prison.

Critics have also questioned just how “real” the Chrisley family’s wealth and lifestyle are on the carefully-crafted reality show. But the off-screen controversies have only brought Todd more notoriety.

Why Fans Love Todd Chrisley

While polarizing off-camera, Todd Chrisley has earned a loyal fanbase who find him entertaining for many reasons:

He’s a loving, involved father – On the show, Todd often plays the fool, but scenes with his kids show his caring side. He’s helped them through tough times and champions their accomplishments.

He’s hilarious – Todd’s exaggerated reactions, searing comebacks and physical comedy make for lots of laugh-out-loud moments. He has natural timing and wit.

He lives an aspirational lifestyle – The family’s mansions, designer duds and shiny cars let fans live vicariously through their lavish lives.

He’s ambitious and hustles – Fans admire Todd’s rags-to-riches career journey and respect his business instincts, despite recent troubles.

He cares deeply about family – Under all the drama, Todd places immense value on family and goes all out for birthdays, holidays and memories.

He’s unfiltered and unpredictable – Todd speaks his unfiltered mind and always keeps it real. Fans tune in to see his unscripted reactions.

While a polarizing public figure, Todd Chrisley has undoubtedly made his mark on pop culture. The world can’t take their eyes off him thanks to his magnetic, outrageous and surprising personality.

Todd Chrisley‘s Most Memorable Moments

Over nine seasons, Todd Chrisley has created endless memorable reality TV moments. Here are some of his most iconic:

• The time he tried to wear shorts – Todd attempting to pull off a casual shorts look was a hilarious fail. He didn‘t have the legs for it!
• His award show freakout – When blocked at the Emmy‘s, Todd had an epic meltdown caught on camera. Pure reality TV gold!
• The naked photos prank – Todd getting revenge on Savannah by putting enlarged naked baby photos around town was a vintage Chrisley scheme.
• Destroying Chase‘s apartment – After Chase moved out, Todd hilarious demolished his new place as the ultimate petty fatherly response.
• The Todd-approved $80 haircut – Todd insisted on taking a fan to get the "Todd Chrisley" look. His reaction to the terrible hairdo was priceless.

After nearly a decade of outrageous antics and family fun, Todd Chrisley continues to be one of reality television‘s most vibrant stars. And with a devoted fanbase on his side, he‘s sure to continue creating unforgettable TV moments when new episodes of “Chrisely Knows Best” return.