Explosive Drama! Stacey Rusch’s Mysterious Romance Gets Put Under the Microscope on RHOP!

The ladies of The Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP) have a lot to say about Stacey Rusch’s approach to romance, as the newcomer’s love life takes center stage in recent episodes. As the newest addition to the group, Stacey has been navigating her way through the drama and dynamics of RHOP, and the other cast members are starting to notice her unique lifestyle choices.

Stacey, who is currently separated from her husband, has been open about dating TJ, an actor and committed Christian. She shared that due to their religious beliefs, she and TJ have chosen not to be intimate until marriage. However, some of the ladies are finding it hard to wrap their heads around her commitment to celibacy. During a recent conversation, Gizelle Bryant questioned Stacey directly, asking, “Are you having ***?” When Stacey confirmed they had not been intimate, Gizelle pressed further, asking who was driving the decision to abstain.

Stacey stood firm, explaining, “We don’t want to have *** until we’re married.” Gizelle’s reaction was one of disbelief, met with an exclamation of “Stop!”

Meanwhile, the topic of abstinence prompted Ashley Darby to reflect on her own life, telling Mia Thornton and Jacqueline Blake that she might try a period of celibacy herself. “Maybe I should try not to have *** for three months,” Ashley mused.

Mia, however, was quick to throw shade, suggesting that Stacey’s celibacy might be more due to her personality than her religious convictions. “She hasn’t had *** because she’s so stiff,” Mia commented, drawing laughter from Ashley.

While Stacey missed the backhanded commentary, she later expressed her feelings about the group’s teasing in a green screen interview. Directing her response at Gizelle, who had openly laughed at her abstinence, Stacey remarked, “It is difficult. However, you can direct your attention to other things. There’s working out. Going to the zoo. So Gizelle can laugh as much as she wants to—alone.”

As the season unfolds, it’s clear Stacey’s conservative approach to dating will continue to stir discussions among the RHOP cast. New episodes of The Real Housewives of Potomac air Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo, where fans can expect more insights—and possibly more tension—as Stacey defends her values in a group known for its outspoken opinions.