Why It Makes Sense for Alexis Bellino to Exit RHOC After Season 18

16 hours ago 3

The Real Housewives of Orange County has been a staple for Bravo fans since 2006. The gated community franchise pulled back the curtain on what it might be like to live in California as a wealthy housewife. Over the years, RHOC has had some heavy hitters, but none have been as polarizing as Alexis Bellino. The mother of three really rubbed fans the wrong when she first appeared in Season 8. However, after a dismal previous season, the former Tradwife was called back up to the major leagues for Season 18. It was clear the network needed a win.

Alexis Bellino bows out

Last week, Alexis hosted the Going Rogue podcast, in which she shared some inside information about her recent firing. She told listeners point blank, “I was not asked back next season.” The announcement was bittersweet since Jesus Jugs had brought such drama to the newest season. Even though this was the highest ratings in five years for the Real Housewives of Orange County, Alexis was axed. She added, “I got a phone call. And I have a very good relationship with him, Alex Baskin. Obviously, he’s my boss, and it was a hard conversation, But I can’t say it came as a shock.”

The OC native continued, “I didn’t think contracts were coming out — like, I thought we had more time — so I thought he was calling to check-in. But I was not shocked about that information because what are they gonna do? I didn’t know … how do I fit in?” Alexis might have been in a little bit of denial as she shared, “I still thought there might be a way they could make it work for everybody to come back. But you know, the cards played the way they did, and how do they bring someone back who is not a fan favorite vs. the fan favorite?”

Fans turned on Alexis Bellino

Even though Andy Cohen supported Alexis’ comeback, many fans who once embraced her quickly threw her to the wolves. Honestly, it was hard to watch her butt heads with Shannon Beador. The Real for Real founder had one hell of a year, and at times, it felt like Alexis didn’t let up on her frenemy. During the premiere, Alexis and Shannon argued over the 2018 lawsuit filed by Jim Bellino regarding defamation. Even though Shannon eventually won, there were still hard feelings as it cost Shannon hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It also didn’t help that Alexis moved on with Shannon’s ex, John Janssen. For the entirety of Season 18, Alexis claimed to be trying to mend bridges, but every chance she got, she couldn’t help but remind everyone of Johnny J and their love affair. Fans were forced to pick a side, and at times, it was hard to defend Alexis and her motives. Her firing makes sense, especially since she quickly became the villain of the season. It’s hard for the network to explain why they are keeping a housewife that nobody wants to see on TV. In the end, it probably wasn’t worth risking losing ratings just to keep a hold of Lexi.

Most of the RHOC cast didn’t like Alexis Bellino

Even if you ignore the hate from most Real Housewives of Orange County fans, the simple fact remains that half the cast refused to film with her. It was obvious that Emily Simpson couldn’t stand Alexis as the two often butted heads. More than once, the lawyer became extremely annoyed with Alexis inserting herself into important conversations that had nothing to do with her. Emily’s disdain was evident during the Season 18 reunion when Em noted, “Every trashcan needs a lid, and John Janssen found his.” When Alexis replied by calling her “Tweedledum,” Emily snapped, yelling, “Don’t you call me dumb. You are the dumbest girl I’ve ever f*cking met!” Shannon made her stance perfectly clear when she shared she would never film with Alexis again.

Alexis Bellino was hard to watch

Honestly, it was really hard to watch Alexis’ harsh treatment of Shannon. Nine Lemons Beador had dealt with a breakup and a DUI arrest, so it very much felt like Alexis was picking on Shannon by rubbing John in her face. Every scene had Alexis talking about John or fighting his battle. It felt like John was filming, too, when he wasn’t even there. I think Alexis did herself a disservice as her constant chattering about Johnny J stopped her from opening up and letting fans get to know her. Now the door is open for Shannon Beador, and the irony hasn’t been lost on fans.

You can stream the Real Housewives of Orange County on Peacock.

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