Vicki Gunvalson Reflects on Family and Reality TV Impact

Vicki Gunvalson, known as the ‘OG of the OC,’ first gained fame as part of the inaugural cast of ‘The Real Housewives of Orange County’ two decades ago. She recently returned to the Southern California series and stars in ‘The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th,’ celebrating the Bravo show’s anniversary. Despite her continued association with the series, Gunvalson explained her family did not enjoy similar treatment from the network.

At 64, Gunvalson revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that her daughter, Briana Culberson, is uninterested in participating in the show. Briana, 39, featured in several episodes over the years but declined an invitation for season 20. Gunvalson shared that Briana even requested Bravo head Andy Cohen to stop contacting her regarding appearances.

“My children are now 39 and 40,” Gunvalson said. “My son did a film this year. My daughter wants nothing to do with it.”

Briana’s reluctance stems partially from her husband Ryan Culberson’s portrayal on the show. After six military tours, he grapples with PTSD, and the show did not represent him favorably. Briana conveyed to her mother a firm disinterest in returning, despite Gunvalson’s pleas for at least a cameo appearance.

Briana and Ryan have four children and have been married for 15 years. Gunvalson’s son, Michael, recently appeared on a ‘RHOC’ episode where he revealed not seeing his sister in eight years and hasn’t met two of her children. He currently resides in Spain, while Briana lives in Oklahoma. The siblings, however, maintain contact through calls and FaceTime.

Vicki reflected on her family’s distance, comparing it to other families who gather regularly. This distance was never her plan, but she acknowledges it as part of their lives now.

The original ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ included Jeana Keough, Lauri Waring, Jo De La Rosa, Kimberly Bryant, and Vicki Gunvalson.

Gunvalson spoke candidly about the toll ‘RHOC’ took on her marriage. Her ex-husband, Donn Gunvalson, once posed an ultimatum involving their marriage and the show. Despite initial confidence in their marriage, the couple eventually divorced, a process documented on the series. Gunvalson expressed regret over prioritizing the show, admitting the family was more important.

Porsha Williams, another reality star, commented that while such shows can strain marriages, they can also reveal crucial insights into relationships and personal growth.

“If the marriage is weak, it’s going to fall apart,” Gunvalson noted.