Andy Cohen is weighing in on the backlash surrounding Vicki Gunvalson, and he has a theory about why some fans aren’t connecting with the longtime Housewife.
Vicki has faced criticism over her attitude on “The Real Housewives of Orange County” and her behavior during “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip,” particularly after she complained about feeling ignored at a party in Atlanta.
Andy addressed the controversy, pointing out that Vicki filmed RHUGT before returning to RHOC.
“First of all, she shot Girls Trip first,” he explained on his SiriusXM show, “Andy Cohen Live.” “She hadn’t been on television in, you know, a few years, so she was kinda coming into it.”
After spending several years away from television, Vicki was adjusting to being back in front of the cameras.
“In terms of Vicki on Orange County, what I like about it is that we have been watching this woman for 20 years, and you are seeing her … at a different life stage,” he shared.
Andy Cohen Explains Why Vicki Gunvalson’s Return to RHOC Feels Different After 20 Years
Vicki hasn’t exactly received the warmest welcome on RHOC. One of her castmates recently called her a “Debbie Downer,” a comment that clearly struck a nerve. Vicki continued bringing it up afterward.
But Andy thinks her behavior is about more than a bad attitude.
After watching her for 20 years, viewers are now seeing a new Vicki. She’s reflecting on her past, including her regrets about divorcing her ex-husband, while also dealing with some physical ailments.
She’s also considerably older than several of her fellow Housewives.
“So maybe for the viewers, it’s not vibing because she’s at such a different place than Gina or Emily or whatever,” Andy stated. “She is an elder. She’s 20 years older than them, but I find that interesting.”
Andy believes the differences between Vicki and her younger castmates may explain why some viewers aren’t connecting with her this season.
Andy Says Vicki Gets Her Groove Back on RHUGT and Addresses the Drama With Luann
There’s good news for viewers missing the Vicki they remember. Andy revealed that she had regained her confidence in the latest episode of RHUGT, and that viewers will get the “Vicki that you love.”
He also believes Vicki and the other women are beginning to understand one another better, although her relationship with Luann de Lesseps remains an exception.
Andy discussed how some longtime Housewives may find it difficult to share the spotlight, particularly when they’ve become closely associated with the franchise.
“I think that there are several Housewives who have been singled out as being … one of the main faces of the Housewives who … it’s maybe harder for them to share the spotlight as an ensemble show,” he explained. “I’m not saying this about Vicki, but I’m saying in general.”
As Vicki settles into the group and RHUGT continues, Andy believes viewers will see more of the Housewife they’ve followed for two decades.
Tell us! As we discussed on the podcast, do you think this will be the last time we see Vicki on our TV screens? Let us know in the comments below.
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Honestly that’s such a BS answer and we also don’t want Emily and Gina on our screens anymore so to compare them is silly – Andy she’s being a bitch and not openly showing her life – THE SAME SHIT that was happening before her boot off the show
Seeing a woman actively regretting her past but being the same person is well boring
BS. The viewers know that she’s wanted to be back for years…and now that she’s back, she can’t be bothered to effectively manage her time to interact with her castmates, or actually participate in the shows. THAT is what has annoyed viewers.
It’s because she’s an asshole lol
I agree with Gianna! ^
We aren’t vibing with her for many reasons but her getting reacquainted with cameras and show or being an elder is NOT any of them.
Andy needs to stop making excuses for Vicki. He’s losing his credibility
That’s a big cop out Andy to cover your ass for bringing her back. I stopped watching 10 years ago bead Vicki and nothing has changed.
I’m loving watching Vicki on RHUGT! Her friendship with Gizelle and Porsha has been cool to see unfold. I think it was clear she had gotten comfortable with a new BF thinking the cameras were behind her and she was given an orange on live tv. I don’t expect much more from what she’s given. It’s still interesting to watch different types of women at different stages in their life for me.
I think in general, we are just tired of the beigeness of OC. If any franchise needs an entire reboot— it’s the one.
It’s time to add some spice to the pot, bring some REAL diversity to the cast.