Several of The Real Housewives franchises have gone through cast mate changes recently, including the ladies of Potomac.
After the season eight finale in April, significant changes erupted in the group that shocked Potomac fans. Shortly after part three of the reunion aired, Candiace Dillard Bassett announced her departure from the show. The longtime housewife joined the show in its third season. She became a household name as she navigated her singing career and desire to become a mother. Bassett also shared her pregnancy with fans in April in a heartwarming video posted on Instagram.
The announcement of Bassett’s departure followed reports of another veteran housewife who is not returning next season. Season nine will be the first time fans will not see Robyn Dixon. The “Reasonably Shady” podcast co-host confirmed her exit from the show during one of her podcast episodes, revealing that she was fired from the series. Additionally, Potomac franchise newbie, Nneka Ihim, confirmed her departure from the show.
Although reality TV lovers were surprised at the sudden changes, the cast shakeup is somewhat expected given the negative feedback from fans about season eight. Between forced arguments and cast members withholding details about their personal lives, fans took to social media to share their disappointment with the latest season. Karen Huger, Mia Thornton, Wendy Osefo, Gizelle Bryant and Ashley Darby remain on the show.
With three spots vacant, Bravo is bringing new housewives and friends onboard. They are set to appear in season nine.
Keiarna Stewart Returns As Friend of the Show
Fans were introduced to Stewart in the show’s recent season as a good friend of Wendy Osefo. Viewers immediately gravitated towards her bubbly personality and praised Stewart as the most fashionable during her confessionals. Her charisma was a breath of fresh air in season eight, and learning Stewart was also a successful businesswoman made Potomac fans admire her even more.
She owns K. Stewart Beauty and Wellness Spa, an IV vitamin therapy and lifestyle wellness establishment in Baltimore. Her medical spa offers services and treatments to address skincare issues. Botox, laser hair removal, chemical peels and microneedling are some options for customers. In addition to her wellness business, she runs a hair extension company called Bali Weave Express. She provides “quality, luxury, affordable and convenient” weave experiences there.
Stewart may be a friend of the show, but the newbie is working her way toward upgrading to full-time housewife for future seasons.
Meet RHOP’s Newest Housewife Addition, Stacey Rusch
Being in front of the camera is second nature for Stacey Rusch. The new Potomac reality star has had a television career as a former TV host on the shopping channel QVC. She previously worked as a reporter/host on Fox 5’s Morning News, Good Day D.C. and anchored on ABC7’s Good Morning Washington. Before having a career in journalism, Rusch was a yoga expert and practiced in more than 35 countries. She was also a health and wellness instructor for the White House Athletic Center, American University and NASA. She is also a wife and mother of a young daughter.
According to TV Deets, Rusch previously connected with Huger through mutual charity work. The self-proclaimed Grande Dame of Potomac reportedly will introduce the reporter to the ladies in Season 9.
Who Is Newcomer Jassi Rideaux?
Jassi Rideaux is a former pageant queen who won several crowns throughout her childhood, including the Royal International Miss Oklahoma. She is now the successful business owner of Chateau Rideaux Inc., a hair extension company that provides high-quality wigs and bundles. Through her friendship with Thornton, she is expected to join the clique as a housewife.