Sutton Stracke always seems to find herself in the middle of drama on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, but fans think she has somehow brilliantly become the star of the show. Sutton first appeared in RHOBH season 10 as a “friend of.” Introduced by Lisa Rinna, fans were intrigued by the wealthy woman with a closet full of quirky couture designer clothes. Sutton came across as a reserved southern belle but made waves when she called Teddi Mellencamp “boring” during a dinner party game. While Sutton’s intentions weren’t to be mean, she soon became known for her blurting out whatever was on her mind.
Many RHOBH fans didn’t know what to make of Sutton at first. She had a difficult time fitting in with the other women and seemed overly sensitive to perceived slights. During RHOBH season 11, Kyle Richards’ sister Kathy Hilton pretended to drink a martini in one gulp. Most of the housewives were in on the joke, except for Sutton, who felt singled out. Sutton again caused drama when she told Crystal Kung Minkoff that she didn’t see color, which many RHOBH fans slammed as ignorant. However, Sutton gained the respect of viewers when she later questioned Erika Jayne’s involvement in her legal scandal and didn’t back down from the Pretty Mess star's wrath.
RHOBH fans have criticized Kyle and Lisa for blindly supporting Erika. However, Sutton was the only one to voice what the other cast members were afraid to say, which fans applauded. Reddit user Merci01 wrote, “Sutton had two choices. Tow the line and blend in with FFF. Don’t create waves, enable the delusion of her cast mates…Or she could stand out by going against the grain and making herself a lightning rod for everyone’s ire because she’s not towing the line and won’t submit to fit in.” Many RHOBH fans agreed with this sentiment, and No_Ad3588 replied, “Yep, this right here. I feel for her awkwardness and can relate, but when she holds her own and pushes back I just love that!”
Although Erika’s legal issues were at the forefront of RHOBH season 11’s storylines, Sutton somehow became the most relevant cast member in season 12. She found herself at odds with Crystal again when she was accused of saying something racially “dark” last season. Sutton’s appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen also started the Elton John Gala-gate drama with Lisa in RHOBH season 12. When Lisa accused Sutton of canceling her table, she refused to be bullied and brought the receipts to prove it. Many fans thought Sutton, who had played the victim in past seasons, was finally stepping up and holding her own against her RHOBH castmates.
Sutton has come a long way since her first appearance on RHOBH season 10. When she joined the show, Sutton had gone through a divorce and sold her house, which made her vulnerable and emotional. Although fans think Sutton is awkward and clumsy with her words at times, many think her honesty is refreshing, and fans respect her for not trying to fit the housewives’ mold. Viewers are tired of Erika, Lisa, and Kyle’s mean girl tactics and believe Sutton is the true star of RHOBH.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. EST on Bravo.