Denise Richards lasted just two seasons on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills before announcing her departure on Wednesday. But, the news didn't come as too much of a shocker to the other housewives who say they knew she was quitting the show.
After having a strong first season that made her a fan-favorite for viewers, Denise struggled during her second season after the affair rumors with Brandi Glanville were brought to light. The Wild Things actress was at the center of the conversation after fans and other housewives on the show accused her of lying about her relationship with Brandi. After the drama-filled season wrapped, Denise issued cease and desist letters to Brandi and other members of the cast that prevented them from speaking about the alleged affair. Fans thought she was going to quit as soon as the rumors surfaced. However, Denise still took part in the reunion taping despite showing how much she didn't want to be there. She slouched during the majority of the reunion, and fans questioned her bloodshot red eyes, which Denise later claimed was just an allergic reaction.
Considering Denise's disastrous end to season 10, it wasn't too much of a surprise when she announced her departure on September 9. Just hours before part two of the reunion aired on Wednesday, news broke the actress would not be returning for season 11. However, her co-stars weren't taken aback and were more surprised by her presence at the reunion. “The other ladies seem to think Denise will quit, but a lot of them also thought she wouldn’t come to the reunion either,” a source told Hollywood Life earlier this month. In the statement on her departure from the show, Denise said she enjoyed her first season on the show and felt like she had made genuine friendships. However, her second season was “very different" and ultimately led to her fast exit.
Prior to announcing her departure, Denise took to Instagram to share a post that celebrated her 2nd wedding anniversary with her husband, Aaron Phypers. One RHOBH fan left a comment asking her for an update on the show's drama. “How are you handling The Mean Girls of Beverly Hills?” the follower questioned. Denise appeared to hint at her split from the group with her response: “Happiness & success is the sweetest revenge,” she said. Now that word is out, fans will have to see if any other housewives follow Denise's lead. Fellow newcomer Garcelle Beauvais previously revealed she would leave the show if Denise did. However, it remains to be seen if that will actually happen.
Source: Hollywood Life, Denise Richards