Kristin Cavallari is revealing a surprising connection to “The Real Housewives of Orange County” star Vicki Gunvalson that dates back to long before either became a reality TV fixture.
While attending the Los Angeles premiere of “The Reunion: Laguna Beach,” Cavallari shared that her ties to Gunvalson are more personal than fans might expect.
“I used to be obsessed with The Real Housewives of Orange County,” Cavallari said, before detailing how closely their lives once overlapped.
“I haven’t seen it in years, but I know Gretchen [Rossi],” she continued. “Like, I know Gretchen is obviously not on it anymore, but like the original crew, yes. This is actually funny — Vicki, her daughter, Briana, and I went to school together freshman year, before I moved to Laguna Beach.”
GettyIt is a connection that places Cavallari briefly within the same world as one of Bravo’s most recognizable reality families years before either became widely known.
A Little-Known Link to the ‘RHOC’ OG
Gunvalson, often referred to as the “OG of the OC,” has been one of the defining figures of the franchise since “The Real Housewives of Orange County” debuted in 2006. Her daughter Briana has also been a recurring presence, and fan favorite, throughout the series.
Cavallari’s comments add an unexpected layer to that history, suggesting their paths crossed well before reality television reshaped both of their public profiles.
‘No One Knows That’
Cavallari made it clear the connection was not casual.
“She was one of my best friends. No one knows that. So, I know — or knew — Vicki really well.”
It is the kind of detail that rarely surfaces, particularly given how closely both women’s lives have been followed over the years.
GettyTwo Reality Paths That Started in the Same Place
Cavallari rose to prominence on “Laguna Beach” before continuing her reality TV run on “The Hills,” becoming one of the most recognizable faces of MTV’s early 2000s era.
Gunvalson, meanwhile, helped launch Bravo’s Housewives franchise with “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” setting the foundation for what would become one of reality television’s most expansive brands. After being off the show for the last few years, she’s back full time for the upcoming season 20.
Their careers ultimately moved in different directions. But Cavallari’s revelation underscores a shared starting point that fans had little reason to connect until now.
