Lara Sophia 
Surprising new details about Alexis Bellino’s return to RHOC have emerged! Get all the tea! Plus, learn if she’s bringing the heat for season 18.
A new report reveals that Alexis Bellino was set to make her return to the Real Housewives of Orange County long before she started a relationship with Shannon Beador’s ex-boyfriend, John Janssen.
“Alexis had already been in talks to return to RHOC before she even started seeing John,” a source tells Us Weekly. “Her relationship with him had nothing to do with her returning to the show.”
Despite Alexis living her life away from the Bravo cameras for over a decade her return to the fold was made easy due to her authentic connections with several members of the Real Housewives of Orange County cast.
So, it is not surprising to hear that the insider reveals that Alexis has been a “fantastic” addition to the RHOC cast for season 18 and that she’s doing amazing when in front of the cameras with her co-stars.
“She’s constantly engaged with the other housewives,” the source teases. “And she’s providing and driving a lot of [the] story line on the show.”
Alexis has filmed numerous group scenes since filming for season 18 began in mid-January. To start, Alexis grabbed drinks on camera with Heather Dubrow and Emily Simpson. A few weeks later, Alexis filmed with the entire cast including Shannon.
Season 18 of RHOC will premiere later this year and is expected to heavily focus on Alexis’ drama with Shannon.
Alexis pointed out that she doesn’t “really care” what Shannon thinks of her relationship with John.
“Here’s the truth,” she told Page Six in December, “I have never met Shannon, I have never worked with Shannon. I wish her nothing but the best in life.”
The now 47-year-old starred in seasons 5 through 8 of the OC Housewives franchise from 2009 until 2013.
The Real Housewives of Orange County will return for season 18 in mid-to-late 2024.
