Why Karen Huger from RHOP Turned Down an Invitation to Join RHUGT
While Karen Huger is a longstanding member of the The Real Housewives of Potomac cast, there’s a reason she isn’t featured as a main cast member in The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.
“The offer was extended. I thought for my sobriety, ‘Take it easy,’ since I was planning to return to [RHOP for] season 11, and I didn’t want to rush myself,” Karen, 63, shared exclusively with Us on Tuesday, August 4. “So, I’m here to cheer and support. I’m looking forward to experiencing it with you all.”
Though Karen, known as the “Grande Dame” of Potomac, appreciated the chance to film once again, she aimed to gradually reenter the franchise while prioritizing her health.
“I take great pride in being part of this family; I’ve earned my place in it,” she explained. “The way they acknowledged and supported my choice to take a step back for a while and continue my healing was incredibly loving and supportive. I’m truly thankful.”
In the upcoming season of RHUGT, original cast members from various seasons—including Lisa Barlow, Vicki Gunvalson, Kyle Richards, Teresa Giudice, and Gizelle Bryant—will journey across the country to mark 20 years of the The Real Housewives franchise.
When RHOP returns for season 11, Karen feels confident that viewers will see more of her as she continues her healing journey after serving a prison sentence due to a DUI arrest. (Us confirmed her release in September 2025, six months prior to the end of her sentence.)
“I’m really happy,” Karen expressed from The Lobster Club in New York City. “I urge anyone struggling to confront their issues and seek help, and to persevere. Coming out on the other side is truly wonderful.”
While filming her upcoming season sober, Karen noted that some of her costars initially “didn’t know how to react.”
“But they were very loving and understanding. You know, we’re messy, so bring it on. I can take it,” she added. “That’s just me. But once they realized my commitment to sobriety, I believe they came around. Let’s watch it together. If they confront me, I’ll address it at the reunion.”
Without revealing too many details about her costars, Karen commended Robyn Dixon for her progress. However, she hinted at another cast member who may have posed challenges.
“The disappointing part was the person involved. I’ll just leave it at that: the person,” Karen teased. “I didn’t mention names because it’s unnecessary to uplift someone who doesn’t deserve it. But I do support everyone in their journey to find their balance.”
The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th premieres on Bravo Sunday, August 9, at 9 p.m. ET. Stream new episodes the following day on Peacock.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
