Vicki Gunvalson Criticizes Aggressive Newcomers on RHUGT Special

The tension unfolded at Dorinda Medley’s Massachusetts estate, where the cast of the Rhode Island series—Alicia Carmody, Rosie DiMare, Ashley Iaconetti, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Kelsey Swanson, and Jo-Ellen Tiberi—joined the production. Gunvalson, who recently secured a full-time return to RHOC after Andy Cohen invited her back at BravoCon 2025, described the atmosphere as awkward. She recalled telling the group to dial back their theatrics, questioning why they felt the need to manufacture conflict for the cameras.

Gunvalson’s return to the network comes seven years after her 2019 departure, a move she previously feared was permanent. Her comeback coincides with the highly anticipated Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th, which premieres August 9, 2026. The special marks a massive reunion for the network, featuring over 80 alumni, including the return of NeNe Leakes, who mended her long-standing estrangement from Bravo to participate in the milestone celebration.