A former RHOP producer has pushed back against Andy Cohen’s claims regarding Candiace Dillard Bassett’s exit from Bravo. Bassett joined the reality show in its third season and made her final appearance at the Season 8 reunion, which concluded in April 2024.
Former RHOP producer disputes Andy Cohen’s account of Candiace Dillard Bassett’s exit from Bravo
While attending Bravo’s FanFest in Charleston, South Carolina, Andy Cohen was asked about Housewives who had chosen to leave their franchises. The question specifically asked how many women had voluntarily walked away rather than been fired. Andy named a few women, including Caroline Manzo from RHONJ. However, when Porsha Williams mentioned Candiace, Andy appeared to dismiss her name. “It’s been a few Housewives,” he replied.
Former RHOP producer Patrick McDonald later reacted to the exchange on Mr. Marcus White’s Instagram page. He wrote, “It’s so interesting that Andy Cohen would imply that Candiace’s exit was entirely Bravo’s idea when that could not be further from the truth.”
He added, “She was very much considering leaving the show during that final season. And I also remember chatting with her when she ultimately decided that returning wasn’t worth it to her and her family. So if Bravo didn’t want her to return, the parting of ways was mutual at its most scandalous. You cannot fire someone who is vocally and openly considering leaving their position.”
Candiace, 39, told People that she cherished the six remarkable years she spent on The Real Housewives of Potomac. She credited the show with bringing meaningful friendships, personal growth, and moments of introspection into her life. With several new opportunities and responsibilities ahead, she decided to take a break from RHOP. Candiace is among the few Housewives who tied the knot on camera. Her 2018 wedding to Chris Bassett was featured in Season 4.
