RHOP - Season 9 - Episode 4: Karen Huger To Mia Thornton: "I'm Not Saying I Effed Up Yet"

In the Real Housewives of Potomac Season 9 Episode 4 preview, tensions are building as new cast member Stacey Rusch continues making waves with bold revelations and confrontations. The Panama trip is a significant setting, where long-standing dynamics are shaken, and new alliances form amid personal confessions. The returning stars—Karen Huger, Gizelle Bryant, Ashley Darby, and Mia Thornton—are navigating old grudges while being challenged by the fresh energy of Stacey and Keiarna Stewart.

Expect heated exchanges, shocking moments, and stylish escapades, as the show explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and reinvention. Episode 4 promises to deliver more drama, especially with Stacey’s upfront nature sparking debates among the group members.

In the latest episode of The Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP), the cast embarks on their first group trip of the season to Lake Norman, North Carolina. Following Gizelle’s apology in the previous episode for kicking out Jassi, Mia, and Stacey, unresolved tensions still bubble beneath the surface. Stacey, in particular, remains at odds with Ashley for exposing her private matters, setting the stage for new confrontations during the trip.

Luxury Meets Drama at ‘Mia’s Manor’

Mia hosts the ladies at a luxurious lake house, but the seemingly serene setting is quickly clouded by subtle digs. Stacey and Keiarna are assigned to the bunk bed room—intended to humiliate Stacey—but Mia’s plan backfires when Stacey is thrilled by the arrangement, admitting she had always wanted a bunk bed as a child. Keiarna finds Stacey’s upbeat attitude inspiring, saying it motivates her to embrace the moment.

Meanwhile, tensions rise between Mia’s two close friends, Jacqueline and Jassi, as they compete for Mia’s attention. Jacqueline confronts Jassi over remarks suggesting she’s a mere “sidekick.” Karen astutely observes Jacqueline’s obsession with Mia, setting the tone for further drama among the group.

Karen Breaks the News: Stacey’s ‘Boring’ Reputation

Karen pulls Stacey aside for a heart-to-heart conversation, revealing that the group has labeled her as “boring.” While Karen is reluctant to name names, a flashback to an earlier car ride confirms Mia’s comment about Stacey being uninteresting. Stacey, surprised but unfazed, declares, “I must be an alien to these ladies because I’m out of this world with positivity.” Karen encourages her to give the others more time to see her true personality.

Later, during a scenic boat ride, Stacey confronts the group about the “boring” label. Mia admits to her remark, but Stacey takes it in stride, even managing to laugh off the situation. This display of humor leaves the group in good spirits, showcasing Stacey’s easygoing nature.

Ashley and Stacey Clash Again

The boat ride isn’t entirely peaceful, however. Stacey calls Ashley out for spreading details about her relationship, accusing her of being unnecessarily messy. Ashley defends herself, insisting she only mentioned that Stacey’s friend TJ was a “friend.” Stacey, determined to maintain boundaries, remains skeptical.

Karen accidentally reignites the drama by confirming that Mia was the one who labeled Stacey as boring. However, Stacey diffuses the situation with a playful attitude, winning over some of the cast with her lighthearted approach.

Gizelle and Karen Mend Fences

Despite previous tensions, Gizelle and Karen manage to repair their friendship by the end of the episode. Gizelle expresses her desire for more support from Karen, and the two agree to leave their issues behind. The camaraderie is short-lived, though, as Mia invites old friends to join the group—much to Jacqueline’s frustration. A tense exchange follows, with Jacqueline boasting about knowing Mia “from way, way back.” Just when it seems the drama has subsided, Mia drops a shocking bombshell: Karen allegedly butt-dialed her while out with another person, adding fuel to speculation about Karen’s relationship with her husband Ray.

What’s Next for the Housewives?

With friendships tested, old wounds reopened, and secrets hinted at, the trip to Lake Norman proves to be anything but relaxing. Stacey emerges from the episode showing grace under pressure, handling conflict with humor while staying true to herself. However, with more cast dynamics at play and unresolved tensions still simmering, viewers can expect the drama to escalate in upcoming episodes.

New episodes of The Real Housewives of Potomac air every Sunday at 8 PM ET on Bravo, promising more twists, laughter, and confrontations as the season progresses. Stay tuned to see how the relationships evolve—and what surprises await the Housewives next!