Lara Sophia 
Now that the Real Housewives of Orange County have closed the chapter on season 16, there’s some major tea emerging about season 17.
Over the weekend, some casting rumors emerged as Bravo preps to begin production on season 17 of RHOC in the next few weeks.
Bravo and Cocktails shared some tea from an RHOC insider.
According to the source, only five of the Housewives from season 16 of RHOC have been asked to return for the next season.
They will reportedly be joined by one former OC housewife and 1 to 2 new cast members.
Another rumor floating around is that Gina Kirschenheiter has reportedly been demoted to a ‘friend’ role for season 17. The source claims that Heather Dubrow, Shannon Beador, Emily Simpson, Noella Bergener and Jen Armstrong are all returning as full-time Housewives.
Gina later shot down this rumor telling one fan she “wasn’t demoted” in a direct message on Instagram.
She also commented to one fan “rumors rumors” about the claims she’s been demoted.
As for the returning former OC Housewife, one insider insists it’s not Tamra Judge. Others have suggested Alexis Bellino, who starred on the show during seasons 5-8, is returning for season 17. Another rumor is that Bravo is bringing Lydia McLaughlin back for the third time.
Filming for season 17 is set to begin at the end of June.
Gotta say, Bravo keeping Jen Armstrong is the dumbest move ever! She brought nothing to the show. She should be knocked down to a friend role if they decide to keep her around. I’d like to see Gina stay. I’d also like to see Bravo bring back 1 to 2 former Housewives while tossing a few new ladies in the mix. I think RHOC would do good with a big cast like season 7 cast of RHONY.
I’m now down for Lydia to return, but whatever. Alexis or Gretchen could work. I’m always down for Tamra Judge to return. Or give us some Meghan King. There are so many options.
Thoughts on this all? Sound off below!
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