Introduction :
Monique Samuels is poised to make a significant return to Bravo, marking an exciting new chapter in her career. The former star of The Real Housewives of Potomac, who made headlines with her departure from the popular reality series in 2020, is set to rejoin the cast for the upcoming Season 10, as exclusively reported by PEOPLE.
Filming is currently taking place in Maryland, featuring returning cast members such as Gizelle Bryant, Ashley Darby, Dr. Wendy Osefo, Keiarna Stewart, and Stacey Rusch.
Samuels will be stepping back into the spotlight in a supporting role, re-entering a series that not only solidified her status as a fan favorite but also became the backdrop for one of the most discussed exits in the franchise’s history.
This return comes at a crucial juncture in Samuels’ life, suggesting that her experiences since leaving the show may bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to the series.
Mila Eve Essentials, a brand owned by the 41-year-old entrepreneur, recently concluded her divorce from Chris Samuels, a 48-year-old former NFL offensive tackle, in September 2023.
The couple had been married for 11 years and share three children: their daughter Milani, aged 9, and two sons, Christopher, who is 12, and Chase, who is 6. According to a source speaking to PEOPLE, Monique is now in a significantly different phase of her life, and her fans can expect to witness this transformation.
She is eager to present her authentic self, stepping away from the roles of wife and mother to embrace her identity as an independent woman embarking on a new chapter, ready to face life on her own terms.
Monique first captured the attention of Bravo viewers when she joined the cast of “The Real Housewives of Potomac” (RHOP) in its second season, which premiered in 2017.
Her entrance was marked by a distinctive blend of sharp humor, an opulent lifestyle, and a straightforward demeanor that quickly established her as a memorable presence on the show.
However, by the fifth season, the dynamics among the cast members shifted dramatically, culminating in a highly publicized confrontation with former co-star Candiace Dillard Bassett.
This altercation not only dominated media coverage but also sparked significant debate among fans, highlighting the intense rivalries and emotional stakes that characterize the series.
Following the conclusion of the season, Monique made the decision to step away from the show, expressing her feelings candidly. She stated, “I’m over it,” highlighting the significant impact that the events and their portrayal had on her family and her mental well-being.
In a reflective post on Instagram, Monique described her experience as a tumultuous journey, acknowledging the challenges inherent in reality television.
She expressed gratitude to her supporters, affectionately referring to them as Team Monique, and conveyed her appreciation for their unwavering support.
However, she emphasized that certain boundaries, once crossed, cannot be undone, with her family being the paramount concern. Monique further articulated that the perspectives of her family and children hold far greater importance to her than any external opinions, underscoring her commitment to prioritizing their well-being above all else.
Since her departure from the spotlight, Monique has redirected her energies towards her children and various business pursuits. In 2022, she made a short-lived return to reality television by appearing on OWN’s Love & Marriage: DC alongside her then-husband.
However, their relationship quickly deteriorated, culminating in Monique filing for divorce in April 2023. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed a profound sense of unhappiness, stating that she had transformed significantly since the day she married eleven years prior.
Monique articulated her concerns about the impact of their ongoing conflicts on their children, recognizing that the notion of staying together for their sake was misguided.
She emphasized that remaining in a contentious environment only serves to model unhealthy relationship dynamics for their children, ultimately leading her to conclude that a separation would be more beneficial for their family’s well-being.
Season 10 of The Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP) is set to premiere later this year, generating considerable anticipation among fans of the franchise. However, the upcoming season will see the absence of two notable cast members from Season 9: Mia Thornton and Karen Huger.
Mia Thornton publicly announced her exit from the show in April, coinciding with her relocation to Atlanta, which has led to speculation about her future endeavors.
On the other hand, Karen Huger is facing legal troubles, as she is currently serving a two-year prison sentence, with one year suspended, following her fourth DUI conviction.
This significant change in the cast dynamics raises questions about the direction of the series and how the remaining housewives will adapt to the evolving landscape of their relationships and storylines.
