After six seasons, Dorinda Medley is bidding farewell to The Real Housewives of New York City– a series which, after the loss of her husband, has been an outlet for her healing
Announcing her departure earlier this month, the reality star wrote a heartfelt message to her Instagram fans, “What a journey this has been. I have laughed and cried and tried to Make it Nice. But all things must come to an end,” Medley further wrote, “This was a great outlet for me to heal when my late husband Richard passed away. I have met so many interesting people and learned so much about myself, about life and about women along the way…Thank you to Bravo and NBC for the incredible ride and to my cast mates for constant stimulation and entertainment. I wish you all health, happiness and success.”
During the recent updates on all of the cast members featured at the end of the RHONY Season 12 finale on September 3, it was revealed that Dorinda is working on a new book. “Known for her advice (solicited or otherwise) Dorinda will make it available to all with her new book, ‘Making it Nice, Making it Through,'” the update read. “She won’t be wearing Jovani on the cover.”
Fans are still in shock about what transpired, and are upset that the fashionista will no longer be seen on RHONY.
Medley joined the full-time cast of the reality series in season 7. Her outspoken personality and hilarious one-liners like “Make it nice.” have made her a fan-favorite. So what could have happened that led to the sudden ouster?
Bravo stated it was a “mutual decision” for Medley to leave the reality series and that “all agreed she needed a break.”
But as more and more details start to come out, sources close to the network revealed that Medley was ultimately let go due to her own drinking problem. Further labeling the actress as a “mean drunk” and a “nightmare,” as she can become excessively aggressive when drunk on set.
In seasons prior, rumors about Medley’s behavior have come to light, as footage of her apparent rude behavior, while intoxicated during filming. Medley has since addressed these criticisms, even calling people’s suggestions about her drinking an indication of a deeper problem “the most ridiculous thing.”
She further claimed that her fellow co-stars are big drinkers themselves, and that they are the ones with the problem. Reports added that Medley was said to be “blindsided” by the sudden firing, and that she only learned the shocking news of her dismissal, while on set, filming The $100,000 Pyramid for ABC.
This season saw Dorinda getting into constant clashes with her fellow castmates. Throughout the season, her co-stars have called her out on her aggravated behavior, but she has never acknowledged her drunken antics. Season 12’s reunion episode, apparently became her last shoot for the show.
Insiders said the executives of the show wanted to move away from Medley’s “abrasive behavior.” Adding, “that’s just not where they want the show to go.”
Over the years, the franchise has gone through many shakeups. The show, which has been on air since 2008, is currently in its 12th season. Cast members have now been whittled down to five (after Tinsley Mortimer left halfway through the season.)
Bravo is said to already be searching for a replacement co-star for Season 13, with producer, Andy Cohen noting that a cast shakeup is underway and that he is full of excitement for their future plans.
Latest reports say executives are “open” to bringing Medley back, if she “cleans up her act.” For now, fans will have to enjoy the new season without her, when RHONY returns for season 13.
‘Real Housewives of New York City‘ Season 12 airs every Thursday at 9/8c only on Bravo.
