Twenty years ago, when Vicki Gunvalson joined The Real Housewives of Orange County, her influence on reality TV was unforeseen. Over time, she became one of the quintessential figures in reality television.
In her 13-year tenure, Gunvalson lived out numerous memorable moments. Her antics included doing a keg stand, renewing her vows only to divorce soon after, suffering a leg injury, a bed-wetting incident, and a ski trip confession.
Referred to as “the O.G. of the O.C.,” Gunvalson was part of the original cast of five women. She managed an insurance company from her California gated community, all while serving as a mainstay on the show. Scott Dunlop, the show’s original producer, described it as a “social experiment” at its inception.
The show’s premise, highlighting the interactions and rivalries of affluent suburban women in California, turned into a massive success. It led to ten spin-offs across America and a suite of related enterprises. It even redefined the archetype of a reality star.
Gunvalson initially left the series in 2019 but made a part-time return in 2023. During BravoCon last November, a surprise from Andy Cohen, the ‘Housewives’ executive producer, brought her back full-time. He presented her with an orange, symbolizing her participation in the 20th anniversary season starting on July 9.
Cohen remarked in a video interview, “I don’t know that in Season 1 we would’ve put all our money on Vicki being the housewife whose story we’re still telling. As much as her life has changed, she has not changed.”
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