RHOC Slow Start: Same Faces, No New Drama

The Real Housewives of Orange County's 20th season is struggling with a slow start, continuing largely unchanged dynamics from its previous season. Critics suggest the show's anniversary may have prevented necessary cast changes, resulting in a lack of engaging content. Instead, the season leans heavily on nostalgia, highlighting past moments and friends like Fernanda Rocha, a figure from season six. These familiar elements offer some redeeming value for long-time viewers. Flashbacks, such as one of Vicki Gunvalson's son Michael from 2006, are used to underscore the show's longevity and evolving relationships.

New additions like Carmella are drawing criticism for their perceived attempts to emulate the style of 'Selling Sunset.' Her extravagant gift to Emily, a Dior bag containing a vibrator, and her business-minded dialogue have been noted as out of place for RHOC. Meanwhile, existing cast members like Tamra Judge and Heather Dubrow are engaged in petty disputes over social media. Jenn Pedranti also voices concerns about Heather's loyalty, creating minor conflicts that fail to generate significant drama. The show's producers are attempting to create storylines around Tamra and Shannon Beador's reconciliation, but these efforts also fall flat.

The episode, titled "Boxed In," features Tamra's party, ostensibly about cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta, but devolving into interpersonal squabbles. A "Friend in a Box" game highlights minor conflicts, such as Emily calling Vicki a "Debbie Downer," which Vicki finds offensive. The most significant conflict involves Jenn feeling that Heather is manipulating their friendship, a situation that echoes Tamra's past accusations against Jenn. Despite these manufactured dramas, the season's overall pacing and lack of substantial conflict leave viewers feeling underwhelmed.