Tamra Judge Describes Turning Point in Relationship with Alexis Bellino: ‘We Had a Very Deep Conversation’
Tamra Judge Describes Turning Point in Relationship with Alexis Bellino: ‘We Had a Very Deep Conversation’
Tamra Judge is opening up about her surprising friendship with former foe Alexis Bellino.
The two Real Housewives of Orange County stars, known for their tumultuous relationship during Alexis‘ initial four-season stint, have reconciled and forged a close bond.
This unexpected development comes despite their history of fiery exchanges and personal accusations on the show, which culminated in a dramatic parting after Season 8, Bellino’ last season until recently.
In the upcoming season of RHOC, fans will see Alexis return in a guest role, providing a window into this evolved friendship. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter just before the premiere of Season 18, Tamra reflected on Alexis‘ return.
“If you were to ask me that two years ago, I would say, ‘Hell no, I don’t want her back,’” she confessed.
However, a chance encounter at BravoCon 2023 changed everything. “But I met her at BravoCon, and with Andy [Cohen] standing over us, we had a very deep conversation about the past and where she is today, and regrets and things like that and we became very close.”
Tamra noted the significant changes in Alexis over the years, hinting at a new side of her that fans can expect.
“You’re going to see an Alexis that is not being held back. One that’s very vocal and one that’s funny, quirky, loud, sad,” she described.
Alexis has faced numerous personal challenges recently, including the loss of her mother and a broken engagement, which Tamra hopes will bring viewers a deeper understanding and empathy.
In the first episode of Season 18, Alexis herself acknowledged their past conflicts and the growth of their relationship.
“Have we had our downside? Yes. Have we shit on each other? Yes. But I’m so thankful for our friendship now,” she shared.
The day after the season premiere, Tamra addressed her followers on Instagram, advocating for Alexis amid mixed reactions to her return.
“Everybody is so quick to judge Alexis, it’s sad,” she wrote. “But as the season goes on, I think you’ll see what I see. She has a huge heart and doesn’t have a mean bone in her body.”
Fellow cast member Heather Dubrow also supported Alexis‘ return, despite the complexities it brings, particularly concerning her relationship with John Janssen.
“I’ve been campaigning for Alexis to come back for two years. I was really excited,” Heather revealed.
“I know the whole thing with John Janssen is odd and difficult… It’s difficult for all of us figuring out how to navigate the whole thing. But I think apart from that, I really hope that the audience gets to see how much Alexis has evolved as a person since they last saw her. Because she is different. She is strong and independent and great.”
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Olivia Davis is a Staff Writer at All About The Tea. Olivia’s hobbies include binging Netflix series, and watching Housewives on Bravo. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in History.