For The Real Housewives of Orange County viewers, there is no doubt that Noella Bergener is a great addition to the franchise. After a poorly received season 15, the network had no choice but to let some old faces go and embrace a rookie. Noella has won over viewers with her honesty and ability to laugh at herself, with many now wondering how the show ever survived without her.
The former model was excited to get the call from Bravo about joining RHOC, and it makes sense since she's proven to be a great fit in the first few episodes. Season 16 has also welcomed back some fan favorites, including Shannon Beador, Gina Kirschenheiter, Emily Simpson, and Heather Dubrow. Noella has made a few headlines over the past few months. Viewers are in for quite the ride between her divorce from James Bergener and total lifestyle change.
Within the past month, Noella has delivered what feels like three seasons of drama. While those following Noella's story knew her devastating divorce would be aired, they had no idea that Noella would be so open on social media. According to the mother of one, James has been visiting the OC on and off but never stopped to see their son. The attorney filed paperwork in August of 2021 while in Puerto Rico and cut off all of their joint credit cards. While many women may have shrunk into the corner, Noella decided to stand up for herself and speak out against her ex-husband's lies. After James' video plea, Noella took to her Instagram to debunk his comments.
During the premiere of The Real Housewives of Orange County season, 16 viewers learned that James owed the IRS and the State of California approximately $5.8 million in taxes. After the news broke regarding the California attorney's legal issues, James argued that he didn't want their son to be filmed or exploited. Viewers are incredibly interested in the couple's issues. The latest revelation is that the former couple permanently lived in Puerto Rico, with Noella only moving to the OC to film the Bravo show.
The newest season has only just begun, but there are bound to be many more twists to Noella's tale with James. A recent episode showed Noella breaking down and hoping that she would be able to reconcile with her ex. However, the reality star's social media is telling a different tale. Noella is now working on bettering herself and putting her son first. Naturally, viewers will keep tuning in to see the final outcome of their divorce.
The Real Housewives of Orange County airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo.