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Lifestyle
20 January 2025

Karen Huger Absent From RHOP Reunion Due To Health Issues

Star enters private recovery program as she faces serious legal challenges and DUI sentencing.

Karen Huger, the beloved star of The Real Housewives of Potomac, will be noticeably absent from the season 9 reunion taping, choosing instead to focus on her health. Huger's manager, Ryan Tresdale, confirmed to Bravo’s The Daily Dish on January 9, 2024, stating, "Karen made the important decision to enter a private recovery program, so was unable to attend the reunion taping today. She was fully supported in this choice. We stand behind Karen as she embarks on this meaningful Journey and are proud of her for taking such a significant step forward in her personal growth."

The statement highlights the seriousness of Huger's current health focus, which she deems necessary, particularly as she faces upcoming legal challenges following her DUI conviction. According to earlier reports, she was found guilty of driving under the influence due to charges stemming from a car accident involving a tree crash back in March 2023. The incident has since garnered attention, especially following the release of body camera footage showing her apparently slurring her words at the time of her arrest.

Bravo confirmed Huger’s absence during the reunion by sharing the seating chart on social media, which left fans speculating about her whereabouts. Questions were soon raised by other Real Housewives stars, including Porsha Williams, who asked, "Where is Karen??" This points to the community's concern for her well-being during such tumultuous times.

Huger, who is affectionately known as the "Grand Dame" of the series, has found herself implicated not only by her DUI charges but potentially facing serious consequences. Following her conviction, she is scheduled to be sentenced on January 29, 2024, and could face up to two years behind bars. This looming fate adds to the urgency of her current health concerns.

Her attorney, A. Scott Bolden, expressed disappointment over the jury’s verdict but confirmed plans to appeal the decision. He stated, "Although we are disappointed with the jury’s verdict, we, of course, respect their decision and appreciate their time hearing our case. We continue to reserve Mrs. Huger’s right to appeal and intend to fully pursue justice on her behalf. We appreciate your support and prayers for Mrs. Huger and her family at this time." This indicates the legal battle is far from over, as Huger has expressed frustration over being unable to openly discuss her case during the season.

During the season 9 run of The Real Housewives of Potomac, Huger often found herself limited by legal constraints from discussing her DUI incident, yet her fellow cast members did not shy away from the topic. Robyn Dixon and Gizelle Bryant recently speculated about Huger’s potential sentencing during their podcast, with Robyn predicting she might receive 60 days in jail and other restrictions. Dixon also voiced her concerns about this potentially not being Huger's first DUI, saying, "This can’t happen again. Apparently this is her 4th time? Her 4th DUI I believe I heard."

This reiteration among castmates reflects the overall tone of concern and disappointment surrounding Huger’s situation, especially considering her previous claims asserting she would be vindicated. Robyn sharply criticized these claims, expressing, "When I heard she claimed she was going to be vindicated, I was like, if this is being vindicated, I don’t want to see what guilty is." It depicts the stark realization among her peers of the gravity of the charges embraced by Huger, particularly among the cast who have shared years of camaraderie with her.

Gizelle Bryant also chimed in on the seriousness of the issue, remarking, "You can’t do what she did … and walk away scot-free." The anticipation and gravity with which the cast regards Huger’s current dilemma are palpable, hinting at potential tension brewing for the series' future.

The specter of her legal troubles casts shadow over celebrations among the cast and the reunion itself, even as the show airs its new episodes every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET. For now, the focus will remain on Huger’s health as she embarks on this private recovery program, alongside the looming reality of her sentencing. Supporters of Huger are hoping for her well-being, but as her manager noted, only time will reveal the full scope of her recovery efforts.