Lara Sophia 
The OG of the OC, Vicki Gunvalson, is returning to RHOC for season 18 over the ongoing Tres Amigas drama with Shannon Beador and Tamra Judge.
TMZ reports that Vicki Gunvalson recently returned to film for season 18 of RHOC. A production source reveals that Vicki Gunvalson was brought back as a guest – not a friend of or a full-time Housewife – to film a takedown between her and former BFF Tamra Judge.
The OG of the OC reportedly tagged along with Shannon Beador to a group event to confront Tamra over their fallout. Producers hoped the Tres Amigas would hash out their issues and reconcile, but that didn’t happen. Instead, the outing turned into an explosive fight between the trio.
By the end of the night, the Tres Amigas’ friendship was more fractured than ever.
Vicki Gunvalson’s return to RHOC may surprise Bravo fans as she previously vowed that she wouldn’t be back for season 18 unless she was full-time.
“It’s all in or nothing. It would have to be on my terms, and that means financially, too. I’m not gonna go back down. I left at a certain number. Either you bring that number back, or what’s the point?” Vicki Gunvalson told Access Hollywood’s Housewives Nightcap in October 2023.
“I don’t need them as much as they need me. There has to be a voice of reason and a strong, successful businesswoman that can still have fun.”
“[Season 17] wasn’t right. It was something I created, and I’m coming in like a has-been old lady? I’m not gonna do that,” she added. “It was like, ‘Why am I not on full-time?’ You want to use me for things.” the OG of the OC continued.
Production for season 18 commenced in mid-January.
Heather Dubrow, Shannon Beador, Tamra Judge, Emily Simpson, Gina Kirschenheiter, and Jennifer Pedranti are all reportedly returning for season 18 as full-time cast members.
Heather Tuck, an OC real estate agent, and Katie Ginella are rumored to be joining the cast as new Housewives. Alexis Bellino is expected to round out the cast as a friend of the Housewives.
TBH, I’m not shocked that Vicki Gunvalson is filming for season 18, considering her and Shannon Beador‘s current beef with Tamra Judge.
Tamra reportedly cut ties with Shannon and Vicki, thus ending their Tres Amigas group, when she learned they were badmouthing her behind her back.
The 52-year-old has since accused Shannon and Vicki of being “insanely jealous” of her success outside of the Tres Amigas.
The Real Housewives of Orange County will return for season 18 in mid-to-late 2024.
