Katie Ginella from RHOC Opens Up About Feeling Targeted by the Cast

Katie Ginella believes she understands why her Real Housewives of Orange County castmates aren’t giving her a break.

“I think these women were looking for anything to highlight my mistakes,” Katie, 41, shared exclusively with Us Weekly during her promotion for the Bravo series on Thursday, July 31. “I felt very well received [in my debut season]. I’m incredibly grateful for everyone’s kindness, and I think their reaction led to a mindset of, ‘Well, we’ll find things to criticize if she’s so well received.’”

Katie was introduced to audiences when season 18 premiered in July 2024. Despite a relatively drama-free first season, she found herself in hot water when Emily Simpson called her out over past legal issues during the reunion special.

Since the launch of season 19 on July 19, Katie has entered into challenging discussions and confrontations with several cast members, including Emily, 49, Shannon Beador, Tamra Judge, and Heather Dubrow.

“I felt very isolated,” Katie confided to Us, reflecting on her experience throughout the episodes. “I felt exposed, and it resonated with me because it’s a familiar feeling, making it quite challenging.”

When prompted for further details, the co-founder of TeeShots opened up about her complex childhood.

“Being the new cast member, the first Asian American on Housewives, and an adoptee places me in a unique position,” she noted. “Growing up in a predominantly white community as the only Asian American made this feeling all too familiar.”

Katie expressed her appreciation for the dedicated fans who have shown support throughout her journey on Bravo.

This encouragement proved vital when Katie found herself questioning whether to continue on the show.

“While on that [season 18] reunion stage, I thought, ‘I’m not sure if I want to return for a second season,’” Katie recalled. “When they reached out asking me to come back, I decided, ‘I want to do this for me to prove I am strong enough.’”

During the season, Katie confided in her husband, Matt Ginella, about her struggles.

However, she reminded herself that life’s toughest challenges often bring the greatest rewards.

“I’m committed to pushing through,” she told Us. “In the last two years on this journey, I’ve learned more about myself than I have in my entire 41 years, making it incredibly valuable.”

The Real Housewives of Orange County airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo. Fans can also stream earlier episodes anytime on Peacock.