You would think that when a Bravo personality signs up for Real Housewives, they would understand that their every move will now be documented for the public to scrutinize. However, even after the original show aired 17 years ago, some women still find themselves in a ton of trouble with the network and the law, and these are the biggest Real Housewives scandals.
Most of the Real Housewives are innocent enough, either partaking in one too many alcoholic beverages or just lashing out for some camera time (we are looking at you, Brandi Glanville). But others really stuck their foot in it and committed a few heinous acts that are almost unforgivable to fans.
Luann de Lesseps Florida Arrest
In her early episodes, the Countess of Real Housewives of New York City was unbearable and often rubbed viewers the wrong way. Luann de Lesseps came across as an entitled socialite who thought it was her job to school her c-ostars on etiquette. Between Seasons 9 and 10, Luann was forced to eat crow as she was arrested in Palm Beach, Florida. It was a very uncivilized look for the royal.
After walking into the wrong hotel room on New Year’s Eve, security called the police on Luann, who was belligerent. The dash cam caught her outburst, and it aired the following season. Via People, Luann was arrested for battery, trespassing, and disorderly intoxication. It didn’t help Luann’s case when the dash cam caught her refusing her arrest and telling the officer, “I’m going to f***ing kill you.”
Danielle Cabral’s Insensitive Post
Influencer @krissyballs recently reposted a video on her Instagram of Danielle Cabral that garnered significant backlash.
The newest Real Housewives of New Jersey star decided it was smart to use Facetune to place her features over a black man’s body. Influencer, Krissy Eftoski, noted that Danielle thought this action was “comedy.” The mother of two has yet to apologize for her digital blackface, with fans growing tired of her insensitive social media postings.
Vicki Gunvalson Helped Brooks Fake Cancer
Who could ever forget the season Vicki Gunvalson from Real Housewives of Orange County helped her then-boyfriend, Brooks Ayers, lie to the general public claiming he had been diagnosed with cancer? During Season 10, the Louisana native decided it was wise to make up an in-depth story regarding his health. But after Shannan Beador and Meghan O’Toole King questioned the story’s validity, fans learned that Brooks was pulling one big scam.
Brooks eventually revealed he lied and fabricated medical documents from the City of Hope hospital, where he never received treatment. It all came to light when the hospital revealed that Brooks had never been their patient. The entire charade left Vicki with egg on her face, as she very much looked to be a part of his lie. It’s no wonder that this is one of the biggest Real Housewives scandals.
Erika Jayne’s Divorce From Tom
It is most definitely expensive to be Erika Jayne, as fans of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills learned after she filed for divorce from Tom Girardi. In November 2020, Erika announced that she would be divorcing her husband, which came as a shock to many followers. But within a month, it was revealed that the two were embroiled in a lawsuit. Tom was accused of embezzling funds from the Lion Air Flight 610 victims.
For her part, Erika has denied any involvement. However, the press painted her to be the villain, and she played the part well. She refused to give back a pair of diamond earrings valued at $750K, noting they were a gift. The “Pretty Mess” singer also failed to acknowledge the victims, claiming she was one herself. Erika’s actions didn’t sit well with followers, even if they came on the advice from her lawyers.
Jen Shah’s Arrest
Real Housewives of Salt Lake City was the gift that kept giving. Thanks to its lively cast, beautiful backdrop, and Jen Shah‘s legal issues, it’s a show that shouldn’t be missed. During Season 2, Jen was arrested while she was filming outside Bueaty Lab during the ladies’ cast trip. The mother of two was tipped off by her husband and tried to flee the scene. However, she was caught and arrested on the side of the road.
Jen was charged with wire fraud and money laundering over her alleged involvement in a nationwide telemarketing scheme. She claimed she was not guilty but, at the last moment, changed her plea to guilty. Jen reported to a Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas. She’s now serving 6 and a half years behind bars.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU THINK THE BIGGEST SCANDAL IN REAL HOUSEWIVES HISTORY IS?
