Credit: Instagram
Amid rumors that Jacqueline Laurita is joining Real Housewives of Orange County for its historic 20th season, Jacqueline posed in photos with her new neighbor, Gretchen Rossi, who hinted they’re “old friends.” Meanwhile, a report claimed Bravo wants to center the show around Gretchen and her friends.
At BravoCon 2025, Andy Cohen announced that Vicki Gunvalson would be returning to RHOC. Last year, Gretchen herself (who’s close with Shannon Beador and Jennifer Pedranti) returned as a friend after a 10-year absence.
In a December 22 Instagram post, Gretchen uploaded photos of herself with Jacqueline and their respective husbands, Slade Smiley and Chris Laurita.
“So much fun with new and old friends last night,” wrote Gretchen. “On this beautiful yacht for the @joyofgivingip event … we watched the beautiful Boat Parade and the incredible drone show … enjoyed cocktails, had a dance party, and laughed the night away!”
Gretchen said there’s “nothing better” than being “surrounded by sweet friends” for the holidays.
“Hope you all are enjoying the Holidays with loved ones!” she added. “Happy Holidays Everyone!”
Around the same time, a report from Deuxmoi hinted that RHOC may center around Gretchen’s friend group.
“[In case you missed it] Vicki Gunvalson, the legendary ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ cast member, will be returning for the show’s 20th season. Despite Daddy Andy shocking Gunvalson with the offer during BravoCon, Deuxmoi’s sources are leaning toward a one-and-done revival for [Vicki],” said Deuxmoi. “So the story goes, Bravo may make this season a last hurrah with the current lineup, opting for new storylines thereafter. With that being said, the reality TV network is angling to center around Gretchen [Rossi] and her friends. Rossi re-entered the Bravo bubble as a friend during Season 19.”
The new season of The Real Housewives of Orange County is expected to begin filming in early 2026. As of now, only Vicki has secured a full-time contract. Interestingly, Vicki’s nemesis Tamra Judge quickly made up with her before news broke that she was coming back. Some fans wonder if Tamra’s move is strategic — an attempt to control as many players in the game as she can.