Although Karen Huger is an OG of The Real Housewives of Potomac cast, there’s a reason why she isn’t a main cast member of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.
“The offer was made. I thought for my sobriety, ‘Take it slow,’ because I was planning on coming back to [RHOP for] season 11, and I didn’t want to overdo it,” Karen, 63, exclusively told Us on Tuesday, August 4. “So I’m here to cheer and support. I can’t wait to see it with you guys.”
Although the “Grande Dame” of Potomac was grateful to have the opportunity to film again, she wanted to ease back into the franchise while focusing on her health.
“I’m very proud to be a part of this family, and I earned my place to be [in] it,” she explained. “The fact that they recognized me and supported my decision to just stay low for a minute and continue to heal was so, so loving and so supportive. I’m so grateful.”
In the new season of RHUGT, original cast members from various seasons — including Lisa Barlow, Vicki Gunvalson, Kyle Richards, Teresa Giudice and Gizelle Bryant — will travel across the country to celebrate 20 years of The Real Housewives franchise.
When RHOP returns for season 11, Karen is confident viewers will see more of her as she continues her healing journey after serving a prison sentence stemming from a DUI arrest. (Us confirmed her release in September 2025, six months before her sentence was set to end.)
“I’m so happy,” Karen said from The Lobster Club in New York City. “I encourage anyone that’s struggling to face it and get the help they need, and walk through it. Come out on the other side. It’s wonderful.”
While filming her upcoming season sober, Karen said some of her costars initially “didn’t know what to do.”
“But they were so loving and supportive. You know, we’re messy, so come for me. I can handle it,” she continued. “That’s me. But when they understood my commitment to my sobriety, I think they got on board with it. I’d like to think so. Let’s watch it together. If they come for me, then I will address it at the reunion.”
Without spilling too much tea about her costars, Karen praised Robyn Dixon for her growth. At the same time, there was another cast member that may have been a problem.
“I would say the disappointing part was the person. I’ll just hint: the person,” Karen hinted. “I didn’t call any names because it’s not necessary to lift someone that doesn’t deserve lifting. But at the same time, I support everyone trying to find their footing.”
The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th premieres on Bravo Sunday, August 9, at 9 p.m. ET. Stream new episodes the next day on Peacock.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
