Shannon Beador is revealing her thoughts on the cast shake-up for season 16 of The Real Housewives of Orange County. Last season, viewers weren't happy with the season 15 cast by the end of the season. Not only was the introduction of Elizabeth Lyn-Vargas unnecessary (especially after viewers questioned her thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic), but castmates Kelly Dodd and Braunwyn Windham-Burke were becoming problematic. The season was not enjoyable for many fans and was urging Bravo to do a cast shake-up.
Luckily they listened and completely revamped the cast but also kept some much-needed returning members. Shannon is, of course, returning, making her the current longest-running RHOC cast member. Gina Kirschenheiter and Emily Simpson are also coming back for their fourth season. However, Kelly, Braunwyn, and Elizabeth were fired, with Bravo adding three new additions. Heather Dubrow announced she would be returning after departing four seasons ago, with the addition of two newbies: Jennifer Armstrong and Noella Bergener.
During a recent interview with Us Weekly, Shannon revealed her thoughts on the season 16 cast shake-up. While the 57-year-old was surprised by the three who were let go, she is overall happy with the cast decisions. "Let’s just say I agreed with some of [the choices] and I didn’t with others," Shannon admitted. "With one, I didn’t necessarily agree with — but it’s all good. I’m actually very happy with the cast that we have right now." The one person Shannon was likely surprised to see go was Kelly. She told the publication that she felt bad after she heard Kelly was let go. Nonetheless, Shannon assured readers that Kelly is doing fine and moving on with her life.
Shannon also keeps in touch with Elizabeth over texts but didn't reveal if she and Braunwyn are still in contact. One former RHOC castmate Shannon definitely will never speak to again is Tamra Judge. When asked if she would like Tamra to return, Shannon said she doesn't think she would "enjoy it." After Shannon became close with Kelly, Tamra began to distance herself away from the reality star. While Shannon doesn't want Tamra back on the show, Heather tried to get the CUT Fitness owner to make an appearance. Heather, who filmed a scene with Vicki Gunvalson, revealed in an interview that she invited Tamra to one of their parties, but it didn't work out. As for Shannon's thoughts on the new Real Housewives, she seems to get along with them.
Even though Shannon might miss some of her former The Real Housewives of Orange County castmates from season 15, she is content with the new cast. Judging by the trailer, Shannon seems to get along with the new ladies and gets to rekindle her friendship with Heather.
Source: Us Weekly