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The Bravo star breaks down what to expect fromRHOCSeason 18.
Shannon Storms Beador never thought shed be on television.
She credits her TV longevity to her willingness to bear it all on camera.
Ive always been authentic on the show.
Her candor will be front and center in the new season.
Youve had an eventful year.
Did you have any reservations about returning for Season 18?
I had a lot.
But to overcome difficult situations, I confront them head-on.
I committed right before filming Season 18 to tell every detail about what was going on in my life.
Im willing to talk about my journey because its something Im proud of.
Theres also something therapeutic about going through personal issues on the show because youre forced to deal with them.
Alexis Bellino, whos now dating your ex, is back.
How did you feel about her return?
Also, Alexis was let go after Season 8 for a reason.
She hasnt been onHousewivesfor 10 years, but I have.
So, well see if fans enjoy her again or not.
Right before filming started, you and Vicki Gunvalson fell out with Tamra Judge.
Whats the status of the Tres Amigas?
Every falling out with Tamra is made public.
Thats what she does.
But Tamra was the one who decided not to be part of the Tres Amigas live shows.
After reflecting on my relationships, I realized my friendship with Tamra was nothing but toxic.
Ive buried things under the rug over the years, and Im not going to do that anymore.
Speaking of Vicki, youve had issues with her in the past.
Where do you both stand today?
Vicki is one of the most incredible friends I’ve ever had.
Shes taken care of me and had my back on and off the show.
Were even starting ourShannon & Vickilive comedy tour, which is based on our friendship.
Would you like to see Vicki back onRHOCfull-time?
I was so grateful she was able to film for the new season.
Theres just something about Vicki and me when were together.
You cant script it.
Shes just silly fun.
Im excited the audience will get to see her.
Weve seen several ex-cast members return recently.
Which formerRHOCstar would you like back?
Shes actually a very kind person.
Is there anyone youd absolutelynotwant back on the show?
Most who have left.
Peggy Sulahian, Lydia McLaughlin, and Jen Armstrong.
She was very boring.
I do wish Noella Bergener had been given another season.
Hopefully fans like the new girl this time.
Tell me about newbie Katie Ginella.
How does she fit into the group in Season 18?
She comes in with a bang.
I meshed with her immediately, and thats rare for me.
WhichHousewivesstar from another city would you like to join your cast?
Id love Sonja Morgan fromNew Yorkto come down to the OC.
Shes a kick in the pants.
Conversely, anyone you wouldnt want to work with?
I would say Nene Leakes.
I read she wasnt friendly and had a bit of an ego onAtlanta.
But maybe shes nicer now than years ago.
If you had to join anotherHousewivesshow, which would it be?
You dont even have to finish the question.New York!
Two of my daughters are now living in NYC which Imsoexcited about.
Youve been onHousewivesfor a decade now.
What are the roses and thorns of being on the show?
One of the worst parts is watching myself back.
Ive gone through an affair and a divorce, a DUI, and getting arrested.
But people relate to what Ive been through.
Fans tell me Ive helped them deal with situations in their own lives.
Thats one of the best parts.
Im also grateful for the little sorority of all theRealHousewivesshows.
We have a certain bond because nobody else can relate to what were going through.
Jennifer Lawrence, whos abig Bravo fan, is going to star in aReal Housewives-inspired murder mystery.
If you were casting aHousewivesmovie, who would play you?
People say Im a little quirky like the gal fromThe White Lotus,Jennifer Coolidge.
I also heard that Jennifer Lawrence once texted Andy Cohen about me onHousewives.
I was like, Oh my gosh, she knows!
The shows reach is amazing.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
