Production on season 20 of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” is reportedly set to begin in February. So far, Vicki Gunvalson is the only cast member confirmed for the new season, though others have hinted at their involvement. Now, a new report says Gretchen Rossi is set to exit following Katie Ginella’s announcement.
The ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ Cast Will Remain Largely Unchanged
Variety released a report about “The Real Housewives of Orange County” season 20 on January 27. In it, they say that Rossi, who returned as a friend of the show for season 19, will not be returning. However, if the report is true, the rest of the cast will remain unchanged.
This means Tamra Judge, Heather Dubrow, Shannon Storms Beador, Gina Kirschenheiter, Emily Simpson, and Jennifer Pedranti will all return when filming begins in a matter of weeks for the new season.
Rossi first joined “The Real Housewives of Orange County” in 2008 for the show’s 4th season. She remained on the show until 2013. Before the season started, Rossi expressed excitement about her return.
She said in an Instagram video, “I’m excited to be back in the mix with all the ladies. I love the ladies, I’m having so much fun, and I can’t wait for the season to air.”
Her cast bio for the season stated, “After a 12-year hiatus, Gretchen Rossi makes her return to the group through new friends, Jennifer and Katie, but she finds herself dealing with the same old issues with Tamra. Their problems get amplified when a new story from an unlikely source causes a chain reaction, forever shifting the dynamics of the friend group.”
Katie Ginella Prevously Announced Her Exit
Ginella took to Instagram on January 9 to confirm she would not appear on “The Real Housewives of Orange County” season 20. She said, “After two seasons as a cast member on RHOC, the network has decided to move forward with season 20 without me.
While disappointing, it’s not entirely surprising after seeing how season 19 played out. I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support I received – it was seen, felt, and deeply appreciated.”
Ginella, who joined the show for season 18, then said, “Representation matters, and I’m proud to have shown up authentically, even when it wasn’t easy. This chapter may be closing, but my voice and my story don’t end here.”
Regarding the cast for season 20, Bravo has only confirmed so far that Gunvalson will be returning. The news came at BravoCon 2025, when Andy Cohen presented her with an orange on stage and asked her to return as a full-time cast member.
Gretchen should leave….she’s a far better person than those others. Take the high road Gretchen……you’re above all these bullies & losers!
Don’t know if I will continue watching now that they brought Vicky back. Never liked her and bringing her back could very well be their downfall