“RHOC”’s Gretchen Slams Tamra for Calling Slade a ‘Deadbeat Dad’ After His Son Died from Cancer, Saying She Doesn’t ‘Have a Soul’

In a recent episode of The Real Housewives of Orange County, Gretchen Rossi fiercely defended her fiance, Slade Smiley, against negative comments made by co-star Tamra Judge. The reality TV star, who shares a daughter with Slade, lashed out at Tamra for labelling Slade a ‘deadbeat dad’ following the tragic passing of his son, Grayson, from cancer. Gretchen expressed her disbelief at Tamra’s remarks, declaring that anyone who could not show empathy in such a heartbreaking moment “doesn’t have a soul.”

Slade’s son Grayson succumbed to a rare form of brain cancer at the age of 22, after enduring numerous surgeries since being diagnosed at just 5 years old. Gretchen and Slade have been navigating the grief of losing Grayson while also ensuring they are present for their young daughter, Skylar. In a candid interview from 2023, Gretchen revealed the emotional turmoil the couple faced as they supported each other through their devastating loss. Slade struggled to cope with the tragedy, and Gretchen felt the weight of keeping him going for the sake of their daughter.

Despite Skylar being only 3 years old at the time of her brother’s passing, she has shown a deep understanding of her parents’ pain. Gretchen shared how Skylar includes Grayson in her prayers every night, demonstrating a sweet sensitivity beyond her years. As they navigate their grief, Gretchen and Slade strive to strike a delicate balance between processing their own emotions and shielding their daughter from carrying the burden of their sorrow.

Their journey through grief and healing has been challenging yet necessary for their family’s well-being. Gretchen emphasises the importance of Skylar learning about death as a natural part of life, albeit a difficult concept for a young child to grasp fully. After a 12-year hiatus, Gretchen has returned to The Real Housewives of Orange County, rejoining the cast to share her story and experiences with viewers. The show airs on Bravo, giving audiences a glimpse into the life of the resilient Rossi-Smiley family.

Gretchen’s passionate defence of Slade against hurtful accusations reflects the strength of their bond as they navigate the aftermath of loss. The couple’s resilience in the face of adversity serves as a reminder of the power of love and family in overcoming life’s toughest challenges. As they continue to heal and rebuild their lives, Gretchen and Slade’s story resonates with audiences, offering a raw and poignant portrayal of grief, love, and resilience in the face of profound loss.

The Real Housewives franchise often delves into the personal lives of its cast members, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and relationships. By sharing their journey with viewers, Gretchen and Slade open up a dialogue about grief, healing, and the complexities of blended families. Their story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of love and family bonds in times of adversity.

As Gretchen reclaims her place in the reality TV spotlight, she brings a message of strength, vulnerability, and hope to audiences around the world. Her unwavering support for Slade amidst criticism highlights the power of standing by loved ones during their darkest moments. Through their shared journey of grief and healing, Gretchen and Slade embody the courage and resilience needed to navigate life’s most challenging chapters, inspiring viewers to find hope and healing in the face of adversity.