Gone South: Episode S4|E16 – The Legend of Dean Ripa

Released January 29, 2025

Introduction

In the sixteenth episode of Gone South, host Jed Lipinski explores the enigmatic life of Dean Ripa, a Southern legend whose passion for reptiles and unconventional lifestyle left an indelible mark on those around him. Through the eyes of JB Beverly, a musician, music producer, and lifelong reptile enthusiast, listeners are taken on a journey that intertwines the thrill of snake hunting with profound insights into human nature and resilience.

Early Fascination with Reptiles

JB Beverly’s lifelong love affair with reptiles began in his early childhood. At [02:28], JB shares, “For me, I was about four or five years old, but I remember it like it was yesterday.” Inspired by his mother’s description of a snake as “one of the closest things to a dinosaur on planet Earth,” JB started keeping pythons and corn snakes during his teenage years, impressing friends with his ever-expanding terrarium collection.

Meeting Dean Ripa

In December 2014, while touring in Wilmington, North Carolina, JB visited the Cape Fear Serpentarium, an indoor reptile zoo renowned for its extensive collection of venomous snakes. It was here that he met Dean Ripa, the Serpentarium’s founder and a legendary figure in the snake world. JB recounts Dean’s captivating presence during a feeding show at [04:14]: “The snake would sway one way,” highlighting Dean’s almost balletic control over a 14-foot Malaysian king cobra. Dean’s charisma and unique life story immediately intrigued JB, laying the foundation for a deep and enduring friendship.

Building the Documentary

Inspired by Dean’s larger-than-life persona, JB proposed making a documentary about him. At [06:00], JB explains, “I got a couple of nice cameras, man. I got a couple of good lavalier mics and some lights.” Over the next two years, JB dedicated his time to filming Dean, capturing the essence of his adventurous spirit and intricate relationship with venomous snakes. This project not only documented Dean’s life but also deepened JB’s understanding of his mentor’s complex character.

Dean Ripa’s Life and Passions

Dean Ripa was a man of many talents and passions. Beyond his expertise with reptiles, Dean pursued classical painting with fervor. In the mid-70s, he dropped out of high school to study under the classical portraitist Pietro Annagoni in Italy. Despite personal challenges, including a tumultuous relationship with Annagoni’s partner, Dean excelled as an artist. His dedication led him to cross paths with the literary giant William Burroughs, forming a bond that JB describes as “Dean saw Burroughs as a kind of surrogate father figure” at [16:53].

Dean’s adventurous spirit extended beyond art. At 21, he joined the Peace Corps in Liberia, financing snake hunting expeditions across 35 countries. His life was perilous, marked by 14 venomous snake bites, including from deadly species like the Black-headed Bushmaster and the Fur De Lance. Despite these dangers, Dean thrived, showcasing his resilience and unwavering passion for reptiles.

The Cape Fear Serpentarium

In 2001, Dean founded the Cape Fear Serpentarium in Downtown Wilmington, a sprawling 10,000-square-foot facility housing over 100 snake species. JB describes the Serpentarium as “the most diverse snake exhibit in North America, if not the world” [19:59]. Dean’s daily routine involved feeding snakes and crocodiles in a circus-like atmosphere, often interacting with visitors in a manner that was both entertaining and educational. His ability to handle dangerous creatures with ease made the Serpentarium a local legend, further cementing Dean’s status as a Southern icon.

Tragic Conclusion

However, Dean’s life was not without turmoil. By early 2017, he was preparing to retire from active management of the Serpentarium to spend more time with his son, Arkin. Despite his accomplishments, Dean faced personal struggles, including marital strains with his wife, Regina, who suffered from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

On May 17, 2017, tragedy struck. Regina, amid a psychotic episode after discontinuing her medication, called 911 claiming that Dean and an intern were attacking her. As detailed at [27:05], Regina reported, “So my husband is attacking me here, ma'am.” The police arrived, لیکن بعد میں انہیں Dean اور Regina نے بات کی کہ Dean “has no intentions of harming his wife” [27:23]. Shortly after the officers left, Regina retrieved a loaded .380 pistol and fatally shot Dean five times, including three shots to the head, as their son Arkin witnessed the horrifying event [29:40].

Aftermath and Legacy

Regina was charged with first-degree murder but was subsequently found not guilty by reason of insanity and committed to a state psychiatric facility [29:38]. Dean’s death was a profound loss to those who knew him, including JB, who delivered a heartfelt eulogy at Dean’s funeral. Reflecting on Dean’s legacy, JB stated, “Life reminds us all from time to time that tomorrow is not guaranteed to anybody and that we must follow our hearts with blinders on” [31:35], encapsulating the fearless and passionate spirit Dean embodied.

JB Beverly’s Continuing Journey

In the wake of Dean’s passing, JB continued his musical pursuits until the pandemic halted live performances. He then discovered a new passion for working with horses, applying the meticulous and patient techniques he learned from Dean in handling venomous snakes. JB now makes a living training and rehabilitating rescue horses, a testament to the enduring influence Dean had on his life [33:01].

Conclusion

"The Legend of Dean Ripa" is a compelling narrative that intertwines adventure, passion, and tragedy. Through JB Beverly’s detailed recounting, listeners gain a profound appreciation for Dean Ripa's remarkable life—a life marked by fearless pursuits, deep friendships, and an unwavering love for reptiles. Gone South masterfully captures the essence of Dean's legacy, offering a poignant exploration of what it means to live authentically and passionately.

Notable Quotes

• JB Beverly on Meeting Dean Ripa:

  • “Dean was the most captivating, most interesting guy I've ever fucking known in my life.” [08:19]

• Dean Ripa on William Burroughs:

  • “I had a great time with William Burroughs. I really loved the old man and he loved me like the son.” [16:48]

• JB Beverly during Dean’s Eulogy:

  • “What kind of man was crazy enough to walk to the beat of his own drum and be his own kind of guy, no matter what the cost? Dean Ripa.” [31:35]

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Gone South not only chronicles the life of a reptile enthusiast but also delves deep into themes of passion, resilience, and the human spirit. "The Legend of Dean Ripa" stands as a testament to the show's ability to uncover and narrate rich, multifaceted stories that resonate deeply with listeners.

For more compelling stories about Southern legends and the intricate tapestry of human experiences, subscribe to Gone South on your preferred podcast platform.