Monique Samuels Reportedly Returning to “Real Housewives of Potomac” as a “Friend” of the Show

Monique Samuels is stepping back into the spotlight and a whole new chapter on “The Real Housewives of Potomac.”

The former “RHOP” star, who left the Bravo series in 2020 after an explosive fifth season, is officially returning for Season 10, this time in a “Friend” role, People exclusively reported. Production is already underway in Maryland with familiar faces like Gizelle Bryant, Ashley Darby, Dr. Wendy Osefo, Keiarna Stewart, and Stacey Rusch back in the mix.

Her return couldn’t come at a more transformative moment. Now 41, the Mila Eve Essentials founder finalized her divorce from ex-NFL player Chris Samuels in September 2023 after 11 years of marriage. They share three children: Christopher, 12, Milani, 9, and Chase, 6.

“Monique’s in a totally different place now, and fans will see that,” a source says. “She’s excited to show who she is now — not as a wife, not as just a mom, but as a woman starting over and taking on life on her own terms.”

Viewers first met Monique in 2017, where her blend of glam and grit quickly made her a fan favorite. But season 5’s headline-making feud with Candiace Dillard Bassett pushed her to walk away.

“I’m over it,” she said at the time, citing how the drama impacted her family and mental health. “When you cross certain lines, there’s no going back. And for me, my family is that line.”

Season 10 is expected to premiere later this year on Bravo.