The recent season of Real Housewives of Orange County has been marked by drama, particularly surrounding star Tamra Judge, who abruptly left filming during a group trip in New Orleans on March 9, 2025. This exit followed a heated argument with fellow cast members Gretchen Rossi and Shannon Beador. Shortly after the incident, Judge took to Instagram to share her feelings:
“It was a long run. When life gives you real problems this reality sh*t doesn’t makes sense. Peace out. .. I’m out.”
This departure took place while filming a group dinner scene for the ongoing 19th season of the show. Following her post, the Instagram account @tasteof_reality shared a screenshot of her story that led to an intriguing exchange. When questioned about her potential exit, Judge confirmed her departure with a clear and emphatic “Yes!!!” in the comment section.
Conflict Escalates: Judge’s Departure During Season 19
Tamra Judge made a notable return to Real Housewives of Orange County during its 17th season after an absence of two seasons, following an impressive run of 11 seasons since 2008. Reports from The U.S. Sun indicate that her exit was triggered by escalating tensions during filming, particularly after an emotionally charged group discussion devolved into a confrontation with Rossi and Beador. An insider revealed:
“Tamra quit in the middle of the New Orleans trip with the girls. It was just after filming an emotional scene that turned into a heated discussion and then a shouting match with Gretchen and Shannon. Ultimately, Tamra can dish it but she can’t take it which longtime viewers well know…She said she’s done for good but if the money is right, she will be back.”
Witnesses in the vicinity of Jackson Square noted that Judge appeared “out of place”in the moments leading up to her departure, a sentiment echoed by production team members who discerned her growing detachment from the group during various activities in New Orleans.
The Impact of Teddi Mellencamp’s Health Crisis
On March 10, during his SiriusXM show, Andy Cohen commented on Judge’s exit, tying it to a more significant concern: the health struggles of her close friend and podcast co-host, Teddi Mellencamp. Recently diagnosed with brain cancer, Mellencamp’s condition worsened after doctors discovered additional tumors in her lungs on March 7, requiring urgent surgery.
Judge expressed her support for Mellencamp through a heartfelt Instagram post on the day of her departure, calling Mellencamp “the little sister I never had and the best friend anyone could ask for.”In his broadcast, Cohen highlighted the emotional turmoil stemming from Mellencamp’s health complications, stating:
“The thing that is at the top of my mind is that one of her best friends, if not her best friend, is going through an incredibly intense health crisis.”
The enduring podcast partnership between Judge and Mellencamp has provided fans with a unique blend of reality TV insights and personal narratives, further engaging their audience.
Background on Tamra Judge
Tamra Judge joined the cast of Real Housewives of Orange County in its third season in 2008, initially under the name Tamra Barney after establishing herself as a real estate agent in the luxurious areas of Coto de Caza and Ladera Ranch. She remained a full-time cast member through season 14, amassing a total of 12 consecutive seasons, which makes her one of the franchise’s longest-serving participants.
In her professional journey, Judge also launched the CUT Fitness studio with her husband, Eddie Judge, and co-created the Vena CBD wellness brand. Having returned in season 17 after a brief hiatus, this current exit marks a tumultuous chapter in her storied involvement with the series.
Real Housewives of Orange County continues to air on the Bravo TV network, captivating audiences with its blend of drama and personal revelations.