Wendy Osefo ‘In Shock’ Over Karen Huger’s Sentencing: Says “Real Housewives of Potomac” ‘Still is Strong’ Without Her (Exclusive)

Wendy Osefo ‘in Shock’ Over Karen Huger’s Sentencing: Real Housewives of Potomac Star Shares Exclusive Reaction

Wendy Osefo, a prominent figure in Real Housewives of Potomac, expressed shock and disbelief upon learning about the sentencing of her co-star Karen Huger. Huger, aged 61, was recently sentenced to two years in prison, with one year suspended, due to a DUI arrest back in March 2024. Following the court hearing, she was promptly taken into custody, sending ripples through the reality TV community.

Osefo, aged 40, revealed her initial reaction to Huger’s sentencing during the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards held in Los Angeles on February 27. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Osefo shared, “My jaw dropped. I couldn’t believe it. At the end of the day, we may have our differences, but I always wish her well, and I’m just keeping her in prayer, 100%.”

Acknowledging Huger’s longstanding presence in the show since season 1, Osefo expressed her belief that the RHOP cast could move forward without her. She highlighted the group’s ability to navigate both with and without Huger’s participation, stating, “With this group, we have found a way to navigate with her presence and without her presence. I definitely wish her well.”

Osefo also mentioned that despite Huger’s absence, the cast, including Gizelle Bryant, Ashley Darby, Stacey Rusch, Mia Thornton, and Keiarna Stewart, successfully filmed the season 9 reunion. Prior to the reunion, Huger had decided to enter a private recovery program, as explained by her manager, Ryan Tresdale, in a statement to PEOPLE obtained by Bravo’s Daily Dish.

Reflecting on the reunion, Osefo commended the collective approach taken by the cast, stating, “Looking at the reunion, I think that we maneuvered in a positive way as a collective, as a unit. I wish her the best, but I think that the Potomac brand still is strong.”

Following Osefo’s response, Ashley Darby also shared her emotional reaction during an episode of The Tamron Hall Show aired on February 27. Darby confessed that she “cried like a baby” upon learning of Huger’s sentencing, urging everyone to keep Huger in their thoughts and prayers. Meanwhile, Gizelle Bryant, in her live segment Gizelle 21 Shady Questions, expressed her concern for Huger’s well-being, emphasising her worries about Huger’s safety in jail.

Huger’s legal journey began when she was first found guilty in court on December 18, with body cam footage from her March arrest revealing her repeated refusal to undergo sobriety tests. Despite the circumstances, Huger has the opportunity to appeal the judge’s decision within 30 days and request a reconsideration within 90 days. Additionally, she is required to serve a five-year probation period related to the charges.

The Real Housewives of Potomac community continues to show support and concern for Karen Huger amidst these challenging times. The camaraderie and unity displayed by the cast members reflect a deep sense of connection and resilience as they navigate through this unexpected turn of events.

As the episode unfolds, fans anticipate further updates on how this development will impact the dynamics within the RHOP franchise. The unwavering support and well-wishes for Karen Huger from both cast members and viewers underscore the strength of their bond beyond the realm of reality TV drama.