She’s Not Who I Thought She Was’: Stacey Rusch Exposes Rift with Ashley Darby on RHOP

On The Real Housewives of Potomac, tensions are escalating between newcomer Stacey Rusch and veteran Housewife Ashley Darby. In the latest drama, Stacey feels deeply betrayed after Ashley casually disclosed details about her personal life to the group—leaving Stacey disappointed and questioning Ashley’s intentions.

Drama at Gizelle Bryant’s Charity Event

The conflict began when Ashley and Gizelle Bryant organized a charity fundraiser for the National Brain Tumor Society, honoring Gizelle’s father, who passed away from the disease. However, the event took a sharp turn when Stacey, Mia Thornton, and Jassi Rideaux arrived late. Unimpressed, Gizelle instructed security to escort the tardy trio out. To add insult to injury, Ashley was then tasked with collecting donations from the very guests Gizelle had just ejected, sparking tension among the women.

Jassi expressed her frustrations, and it seems Stacey Rusch is the next in line to confront Ashley’s behavior.

Ashley Spills Stacey’s Personal Business

During a previous episode, Stacey confided in Ashley about a new romantic relationship with TJ, a deeply religious man who wished to remain celibate until marriage. However, in a preview of an upcoming episode, Ashley lets this sensitive information slip during a conversation with the group, catching Stacey off guard.

When Gizelle questions Stacey about her marital status, Stacey explains:
“I was married for 16 years, and we have an amazing 8-year-old daughter, Arabella. Unfortunately, we’re going through a divorce. Over time, we just lost each other.”

Gizelle presses further:

So, do you want the divorce? It sounds like you’re sad about it. When I was at the end of my road, I was happy.”

Stacey responds candidly, “I’m never going to be happy about a divorce.”

That’s when Ashley interjects with an unexpected reveal:

“She has a new friend.”