Bravo has officially confirmed that Gretchen Rossi, a memorable face from past seasons, is returning to The Real Housewives of Orange County. The network announced on Wednesday that Rossi will appear in the upcoming Season 19. While she won’t be a full-time cast member, her presence as a “friend” of the Housewives is expected to bring a new wave of excitement and drama to the long-running reality series.
A Look Back at Rossi’s Original Run
Gretchen Rossi first joined the cast in 2008 for Season 4, and her storyline immediately captured viewers’ attention. She was engaged to Jeff Beitzel, a businessman who was battling leukemia. His tragic passing before the season finished airing created one of the most emotional and discussed plots in the show’s history.
Her time on the show was defined by high-stakes drama and personal challenges. However, it was her subsequent relationship with Slade Smiley that became a central focus of her tenure. This new romance quickly became a source of conflict and gossip among the other cast members.
The Enduring Relationship with Slade Smiley
By Season 5, Gretchen and Slade’s relationship was a major storyline. Slade was already a known figure to RHOC fans, having been previously engaged to original housewife Jo De La Rosa. His new relationship with Gretchen caused a stir, with many questioning if their connection was genuine or simply for the cameras.
The couple constantly defended their relationship against accusations from both castmates and viewers. Rossi’s time on the show concluded at the end of Season 8 with a grand proposal to Smiley. Although he accepted, they never officially married. Despite the lack of a wedding, their bond has proven strong, as they recently celebrated 16 years together.
What Her Return Means for Season 19
Bravo has a history of bringing back former cast members to spice things up, and Rossi’s return is expected to do just that. Her reappearance will likely reignite old rivalries and create fresh dynamics within the current group. Fans are already wondering about several key points:
- How will Gretchen interact with the current cast, especially those she has a history with?
- Will old tensions with veterans like Tamra Judge and Shannon Beador resurface?
- Will viewers get an update on her life with Slade and their daughter, Skylar?
Given the nature of the show, her return is almost guaranteed to deliver the dramatic moments that audiences love.
Shaking Up the Orange County Dynamics
The timing for Rossi’s return seems perfect. The show is undergoing a cast shakeup, with the recent departure of fellow alum Alexis Bellino. Additionally, current housewife Shannon Beador has been in the news for her own personal and legal troubles.
Rossi’s presence could serve as a bridge between the show’s classic era and its current iteration. Reality television often relies on nostalgia, and bringing back an original personality like Gretchen is a smart move to keep longtime fans invested while drawing in new ones. Her return is poised to give Season 19 a significant boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gretchen Rossi?
Gretchen Rossi is a television personality best known for her role on The Real Housewives of Orange County. She was a main cast member from Season 4 to Season 8, and her storylines often focused on her relationships and business ventures.
Is Gretchen Rossi a full-time housewife in Season 19?
No, Gretchen Rossi is returning for Season 19 in the role of a “friend” of the Housewives. This means she will appear in several episodes and participate in group events but will not have a main storyline.
Why did Gretchen Rossi originally leave RHOC?
Gretchen Rossi left the show after Season 8 in 2013. While no single reason was given, it is common for cast members to depart due to contract negotiations, a desire to focus on other projects, or to step away from the drama of the show.
Are Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley still together?
Yes, Gretchen and Slade are still together. They recently celebrated their 16-year anniversary and have a daughter named Skylar. Although they got engaged on the show, they have not yet married.
