RHOP - Season 9 - Episode 3: Stacey Rusch is offended

In The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 9, Episode 3, the drama continues to build among the group as tensions rise from unresolved issues and new conflicts emerge. Mia Thornton’s complicated relationships are under the spotlight, especially regarding her marriage to Gordon and past rumors about romantic entanglements. Meanwhile, Karen Huger is working to handle both personal challenges and group conflicts, which threaten to affect her standing with the others. dynamic.

The tension among the ladies of Potomac continues to rise, with long-standing rivalries, personal feuds, and unresolved drama playing out in Episode 3. From Karen Huger stirring controversy by hosting her own event during Gizelle Bryant and Ashley Darby’s charity party to awkward relationship moments and explosive confrontations—this episode did not disappoint. Here’s the breakdown of everything that went down.

Karen vs. Gizelle: Frenemies or Just Enemies Now?

Karen escalated her rivalry with Gizelle by hosting an event that clashed with the latter’s charity fundraiser. Although the cast had RSVP’d for Gizelle and Ashley’s party, most of them stopped by Karen’s event first. This left Gizelle furious. When the ladies finally showed up late, Gizelle retaliated by kicking them out. Ashley, always looking to smooth things over (or stir the pot), approached the kicked-out group to collect donations—but was met with a door slammed in her face by Jassi Rideaux.

Family Moments and Motherly Criticism

The episode also gave a softer touch with family-themed moments. Wendy Osefo shared time with her mother, who stopped by to offer unsolicited but well-meaning advice, while Gizelle prepared for her daughters’ prom night. The emotional weight of seeing her children grow up and leave home soon had Gizelle reflecting on life as an empty nester. Her ex-husband Jamal Bryant also made an appearance, though Gizelle brushed off any speculation about his love life, saying that regardless of the rumors, “He’s their father, and that will never change.”

Messy Confessions: Karen Takes a Dig at Ashley

Karen, known for her quick wit and shade, couldn’t resist taking a swipe at Ashley during a confrontation. After Ashley brought up the Uber vouchers Karen once gifted her, Karen clapped back, telling her to use them to get the “acorn off her foot.” Ashley shouted, “You coming for my bunions?”—delivering one of the most memorable (and hilarious) moments of the episode.

Gizelle’s Apology… Kind of

In an unexpected turn, Gizelle apologized to Jassi, Stacey Rusch, and Mia Thornton for kicking them out. However, Gizelle’s apology came with an ulterior motive—she admitted she wanted to pull the women out from what she called “Karen’s spell.” Despite the olive branch, Stacey was still upset with Ashley for gossiping about her relationship with TJ, her platonic friend who prefers to abstain from intimacy until marriage. Ashley’s loose lips didn’t sit well with Stacey, adding another layer of drama to the episode.

Mia and Karen: Cracks in the Friendship?

The cast’s first trip of the season, to Charlotte, North Carolina, teased more drama to come. During the trip, Mia expressed concern about Karen’s legal troubles and the rumors swirling around her DUI. Karen, staying evasive, told Mia to read the details online if she wanted to know more. But Mia warned, “There will come a time where you’re going to break.” This ominous prediction was a harbinger of more drama, as the episode ended on a cliffhanger: Karen shouting, “I don’t have two DUIs, dingbat!” amidst a screaming match.

Final Thoughts and What’s Next?

The episode left viewers on edge, promising even more drama in the next installment. Can the group move past these rifts, or will the friction only grow deeper? As relationships become strained, alliances shift, and tensions boil over, it’s clear that Season 9 of RHOP is delivering all the messy, dramatic moments fans love.

Catch the next episode of Real Housewives of Potomac on Sunday, October 27, at 8 PM ET on Bravo.