Housewives Mess: Phaedra Parks Makes Her Long-Awaited Return—But Can She Play Nice with the New Crew? [Video]

Season 16, Episode 12 of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta“ showcased the return of Phaedra Parks, but not before Brit Eady took center stage with the soft launch of her new venture, Bare and Naked.

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While much of the episode served as a lead-in to Phaedra’s reintroduction to the franchise, there were several standout moments, particularly surrounding Brit’s event. She hosted the ladies at a golf course to promote her new bodywear line. The brand name alone drew side-eyes and giggles from the cast, though Brit appeared passionate about the venture after stepping away from the insurance industry. However, the event itself raised eyebrows, especially due to the confusion over who was supposed to be served food and who wasn’t. Guests were also unclear about the brand’s direction. Despite the glitz, awkwardness lingered and only intensified when Angela Oakley suddenly declared that her husband, Charles Oakley, does not have a side baby, a rumor that’s hovered over the season. The moment was cringeworthy and seemingly unprovoked.

Still, the ladies agreed to attend Shamea Morton and Kelli Ferrell’s upcoming Grenada trip, which was in the early planning stages during this episode.

Viewers also watched Porsha Williams house hunting, but the main event was her reunion with Phaedra. After eight years away, the two filmed inside Phaedra’s home, reflecting on the past and discussing what she’s most excited about. The scene felt like a setup to formally invite Phaedra on the Grenada trip, which she accepted. Episode 13 promises to show how she meshes with the current cast, especially after she shaded Brit for allegedly getting around Atlanta’s dating scene.

While this episode wasn’t the juiciest of the season, Bravo is clearly setting the stage for Phaedra’s big personality to shake things up.