Reality TV just got a dose of real life. Karen Huger, one of the original cast members of The Real Housewives of Potomac, has been sentenced to a year in prison following her conviction for DUI and multiple driving violations. Her co-star, Gizelle Bryant, was among the first to react, saying she was “shook” and deeply concerned for Huger’s safety behind bars.
Gizelle Bryant Reacts: ‘Karen Ain’t Cut Out for Jail’
The news of Huger’s sentencing broke on Wednesday, and Bryant wasted no time addressing it during her Gizelle 21 Shady Questions Live event. She was visibly stunned.
“This just happened today,” she told the audience, according to Us Weekly. “I do not have her wigs. I am concerned. In all seriousness, I am concerned for her safety. Karen ain’t cut out for jail.”
Bryant, 54, made it clear she wasn’t making light of the situation. She admitted she was praying for her co-star and hoped “the Lord is with her” during what’s bound to be a difficult time.
Huger, 61, now faces a year behind bars after receiving a two-year sentence with one year suspended in Montgomery County, Maryland. She has 30 days to file an appeal.
The Charges That Led to Huger’s Sentencing
Huger’s legal troubles started in March 2024 when she crashed her 2017 Maserati. The incident led to a slew of charges, and in December, she was found guilty of five out of six counts.
The charges included:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Negligent driving
- Failure to control speed
- Failure to notify authorities of an address change
During Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Terrence McGann pointed out Huger’s troubling history behind the wheel. Since 2006, she’s received four driving violations, raising concerns about whether this was an isolated incident or part of a pattern.
“Can we believe that she’s only driven while intoxicated four times in the last 17 years,” McGann asked, “or is it more likely that she’s been very lucky and her inebriation has gone undetected?”
Huger was reportedly emotional in court, expressing remorse for her actions. “I understand better the brutal clarity of the fact that when you’re behind a car driving, you’re not just driving for yourself,” she told the judge. “It’s my responsibility to make sure that my community members make it where they need to be safely.”
Legal Team Pushes for Rehab, But Court Says No
Huger’s lawyers had argued for a rehabilitation-focused sentence instead of prison time, citing her efforts to seek treatment. She skipped the RHOP Season 9 reunion last month to check into rehab, a move that some speculated was part of her legal defense strategy.
Her attorney, A. Scott Bolden, expressed disappointment with the court’s decision but confirmed that Huger will appeal.
“Although we are disappointed in the jury’s verdict, we of course respect their decision and appreciate their time hearing our case,” Bolden said in a statement. “We continue to reserve Mrs. Huger’s right to an appeal and intend to fully pursue justice on her behalf.”
What Happens Next for Huger and RHOP?
Huger’s sentencing has left fans wondering what this means for her future on The Real Housewives of Potomac. As one of the franchise’s original stars, her presence has been a staple since the show’s premiere in 2016.
With filming schedules and legal proceedings overlapping, her role in the upcoming season remains unclear. However, sources close to the production suggest Bravo is closely monitoring the situation.
This isn’t the first time a Real Housewives star has faced legal trouble. In recent years, several cast members from across the franchise have had run-ins with the law, including RHOSLC star Jen Shah, who is currently serving a prison sentence for fraud.
One thing is certain: Huger’s sentencing has shaken the RHOP cast. Bryant’s reaction is just the beginning, and more co-stars will likely weigh in as the news spreads.
With an appeal process ahead and a year behind bars looming, Huger’s future—both in reality TV and real life—remains uncertain.
