Season 18 is going to be extremely difficult for Shannon Beador. The mother of three is in the midst of another rebuilding year after her break up with John Janssen. She is trying to get her head around her ex, who is now dating Alexis Bellino. And it probably doesn’t help that Bravo has welcomed Alexis back with open arms. To add insult to injury, Shannon was caught driving while intoxicated with her beloved dog, Archie, in the car. Honestly, I feel sympathy for Shannon, none of this can be easy. That said, the only person that can prevent you from getting a DUI is… you. Now, I have found myself wondering if anyone will throw a liferaft to her as she slowly drowns amongst the yuppies and false friends.
Did Bravo fire Shannon’s allies ahead of Season 18?
It’s fair to say that Shannon doesn’t have many friends willing to stick up for her in the upcoming season. But the common denominator in Shan losing her friends is Shannon. Her once close friend and fellow Tres Amiga, Tamra Judge, flipped on her after Shannon continued to (allegedly) drink alcohol. Real Housewives of Orange County fans already know Shannon and Tamra went into this season with bad blood. Tamra lamented on Jeff Lewis Live, “Me and Shannon, we went into the season not in a good place, and you guys will find out why, what happened, and what led to that.”
Jeff noted that Bravo took away any ally Shannon had when they fired Taylor Armstrong and Vicki Gunvalson. The former Bravo star told Andy Cohen “There’s no better TV than when Shannon is activated. I just didn’t like that you took away all her allies. You know what I’m saying? She went in with the wolves.” Also, the wolves used to be her friends, but again, Shannon has a problem with relationships.
Shannon has alienated herself
In September 2023, Shannon had a DUI and hit-and-run. Many cast members were waiting for Shannon to take some form of accountability for her actions. Friends believed after Shannon completed the 28-day behavioral wellness program with an alcohol specialist that, she might start to see the light. However, the sneak peek showed Shannon joking about taking her breathalyzer and ordering multiple drinks on nights out. It is hard to help someone who doesn’t want to be helped. It very much feels like Shannon is using alcohol to cope with the stressors that come with being a reality TV star.
A source close to Shannon spoke with The Daily Mail, saying, “Although Shannon thinks this is okay, it is of concern to those who love her and have supported her through her process of overcoming the pain caused by the DUI. It is ultimately Shannon’s life – but lying to herself and trying to convince herself that her drinking is not a problem after getting a DUI from an accident that could have been way worse is not on.” As a fan, I am concerned that Shannon’s stubborn streak may cost her valuable friendships.
Alexis is back
Now, correct me if I am wrong, but I never thought Alexis was a fan favorite. But now she’s back and most of the fandom is pumped for her return. So, I imagine that Shannon was surprised to learn that Tamra and Heather Dubrow were taking photos together on a private plane. It is fair to assume that John and Alexis have had some pillow talk conversations, which probably are giving Shannon pause for concern. Keep in mind, Shannon and Alexis didn’t know each other and haven’t filmed RHOC together. Basically, Alexis owes Shannon nothing. Again, the sneak peek shows Alexis giving the Real for Real founder a run for her money, stating, “I have your ex-boyfriend. There’s the door, Shannon Beador!”
It must be lonely for Shannon right now. Hopefully, Shannon will learn to use the tools she gained in therapy to move forward. Not only is she fighting with some of her best friends, but she is also looking down the barrel of her former beau, moving on to a happier relationship. While it has always been entertaining to watch a housewife hit a new personal low, some folks will be empathizing with Shannon, who probably just needs someone to say, “I got you.” But keep in mind, she continues to make these choices.
TELL US – DO YOU THINK THIS WILL BE A REDEMPTION SEASON FOR SHANNON? OR WILL SHE NEED TO FIND A FRIEND OR TWO?
