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Vicki Gunvalson of ‘RHOC’ won’t forgive Bravo for taping her reaction to mom’s death

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Vicki Gunvalson of 'RHOC' won't forgive Bravo for taping her reaction to mom's death

As a supporter who has followed Vicki Gunvalson‘s journey on “The Real Housewives of Orange County” for many seasons, I cannot help but empathize with her in this heart-wrenching situation. The loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and private moment, and it’s disheartening to see it exploited for television.

Previously starring on “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” Vicki Gunvalson has been known for numerous emotional breakdowns and heated arguments displayed on the Bravo reality show. She became entangled in her ex’s fabricated cancer scheme, overindulged excessively, and had more than a few awkward moments caught on camera. However, she feels that cable network Bravo crossed a line in 2015 when they filmed her learning about her mother’s passing in real-time.

In an upcoming episode of Vice’s “The Dark Side of Reality TV” series, a previous Bravo star disclosed insights into the making of that specific episode. She revealed that her relatives, including daughter Briana, had frequently contacted her to break the sad news about her mother, Joanne Steinmetz, passing away. However, Gunvalson was filming Season 10 of the popular reality series at the time, specifically participating in a Bunco game at friend Shannon Beador’s residence during those phone calls. Eventually, her family reached out to the production team to speak with her directly.

As reported by People after obtaining a clip, Gunvalson stated that the production crew set up lighting and cameras in Beador’s room filled with wrapping paper to film her receiving the heartfelt phone call.

Gunvalson expressed frustration that she wasn’t informed for an hour about the sad news, while they continued filming. She considered their actions inappropriate and believes they should have privately told her, ‘Your mother has passed. Discuss this with your daughter off-camera,’ which is what she would have done as a producer.

I’d rather deal with my feelings alone right now, as this experience has been incredibly distressing. I find it hard to imagine ever forgiving Bravo for what happened.

Representatives for Bravo did not comment Monday when reached by The Times.

For 14 seasons, starting from its premiere in 2006, a 62-year-old actor was a mainstay of the show. However, in 2020, she decided to step away from the series. Though she has made appearances more recently in a less significant role as a friend, she is no longer one of the primary cast members.

In a heart-wrenching moment, Gunvalson broke down in tears after receiving a tragic phone call about her mother. Overwhelmed, she sobbed out that she had only spoken to her mother earlier in the day, that Steinmetz was perfectly healthy and that she longed for her mom’s return.

In a 2015 episode of Bravo’s late-night talk show “Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen”, she had discussed a specific scene. Interestingly, even though she stated back then that she hadn’t watched the episode yet, she later expressed appreciation for the fact that Steinmetz wasn’t in the scene and that the cameras didn’t capture her mother during her final moments.

Yet, the businesswoman admitted later on that she remained unfazed by the incident as it was simply a part of her usual life experiences. Moreover, she disclosed that she had no recollection of most events during the phone conversation and the subsequent evening due to a temporary loss of consciousness.

She shared that after losing her mother, she decided to open up all aspects of her life, both the positive and negative. She’s experienced many wonderful moments being broadcasted, but there are also times she wishes hadn’t been part of a reality show. As of now, she doesn’t feel this was a decision she regrets.

Vicki Gunvalson of 'RHOC' won't forgive Bravo for taping her reaction to mom's death ×

On Tuesday, Vice will broadcast an episode titled ‘The Hidden Truths of Reality TV’ focusing on the ‘Real Housewives’ series. Previously, this series has investigated shows such as ‘Hell’s Kitchen’, ‘Joe Millionaire’, ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’, and the first season of ‘Survivor.’

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2024-10-29 01:01

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