Ashley Darby’s Singing Disaster: The ‘Pop Rock Star’ Moment Fans Can’t Unhear

Bravo’s Real Housewives of Potomac delivered another drama-packed episode this week, but it was Ashley Darby’s unexpected vocal performance that truly stole the show—though not in the way she might have hoped.

The 36-year-old reality star took the stage at a fitness event for her wellness company, GNA, which she co-founded with fellow housewife Gizelle Bryant. The episode, titled Healing, Thriving and Surviving, showcased Darby attempting to sing her original song Healing and Thriving.

From Praise to Playful Criticism

Bryant introduced Darby as an “international pop rock star,” a claim that left both the audience and viewers online baffled. Co-star Wendy Osefo didn’t hold back her skepticism, muttering a blunt, “Ashley, no,” as Darby began her performance.

While Stacey Rusch diplomatically praised Ashley’s “courage” and effort, fans online were far less kind. Social media exploded with reactions, many poking fun at Darby’s singing skills—or lack thereof.

@CryCrybaby90 shared a photo of Darby crying, captioned, “When there’s no autotune.”
@GGMoney17 tweeted, “Ashley, baby girl, you are tone deaf. Let’s find another dream.”
@Blasian_mama added a GIF of someone covering their ears, writing, “Make it stop, my ears.”
Twitter Turns Savage
Many fans compared Darby’s attempt to her more musically inclined co-star Candiace Dillard Bassett, known for her successful foray into music. One user, @ItsEthiDOPEian, quipped, “Ashley, if you don’t get off that stage and quit playing in people’s mic. Wanna be Candiace so bad.”

Others found humor in Gizelle Bryant’s exaggerated introduction, with @_Manibaebee laughing, “Gizelle calling Ashley an international pop rock star is funny.”

A Mixed Bag of Reactions

Despite the overwhelming mockery, some viewers gave credit where it was due. Rusch remarked during the show, “She put forth such an effort to hit those notes,” a sentiment that was echoed by a small handful of fans who admired Darby’s bravery.

Other Drama in the Episode

While Ashley’s performance dominated the episode’s buzz, other storylines provided plenty of fuel for drama:

Wendy Osefo celebrated another 40th birthday party, which brought together the entire group.
Stacey Rusch and her “best friend” TJ had an awkward exchange over their platonic dynamic, further complicating their storyline.
Mia Thornton stirred confusion after showing up with her ex, Inc, who she recently revealed had prompted her to terminate a pregnancy.

What’s Next for RHOP?

Ashley Darby’s performance may not have hit the right notes, but it certainly struck a chord with fans—good or bad. With tensions brewing and storylines unraveling, The Real Housewives of Potomac promises even more drama when it returns next Sunday at 8 PM ET on Bravo.