Phaedra Parks Announces Her Return to ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’

Phaedra Parks is returning to The Real Housewives of Atlanta!

“You called, I answered,” Parks announced on Instagram on Monday, sharing the news with a photoshoot of her holding a peach as she stands outside a private jet. 

Her announcement comes nearly a month after news broke that Kenya Moore would be exiting the series. In June, ET confirmed that the 53-year-old reality TV star would not be returning for season 16 following her suspension by Bravo back in early June. Kenya was sidelined at the time for alleged drama involving RHOA newcomer Brittany Eady. 

In response, a source told ET that she decided to part ways with the franchise, despite previously expressing interest in returning, declaring that she would not be “going anywhere” and receiving support from her longtime castmates and friends. 

“Kenya is not returning to RHOA this season. She decided it was best for herself to leave after how she felt the incident was handled and how she was treated,” a source shared with ET.

Kenya later vaguely referred to her decision to exit the series in a tweet, writing “You are the best fans anyone could ever ask for. and I love you all so very much. Always and forever.” The former Miss USA also added “#TeamTwirlForever,” referencing her fanbase. 

In April, Parks walked the carpet at the grand opening of the Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center, where she spoke with ET’s Brice Sander about her future on TV, and what it was like being a part of season 10 of Married to Medicine.

“You know what, they are very different from The Housewives ’cause they’re professional women, but they have really strong relationships and true friendships,” Parks said of her fellow Married to Medicine co-stars. “So it was a good time.”

“We actually started taping two days ago,” she added at the time, confirming her return for another season of the Bravo reality series. “We’re back for more.”

When asked if that meant she’d return to RHOA for season 16, “I don’t know if that puts all the rumors to rest,” Parks teased coyly. “Because I’m a multi-faceted type of girl.”

With Porsha Williams’ return, Parks was more inclined to consider a return herself after her departure following season 9 in 2017.

“I love Porsha and, you know, we’ve been talking, and hopefully we can work something out,” Parks said. “Porsha’s my girl, so I’m really excited for her.”

Despite being gone for several seasons, Parks said she feels “the door has always been somewhat open” for her to return. 

“But I want to do what’s best for me and my family, so it’s got to be the right opportunity,” she said. “And it’s got to be with the right castmates.”

Bravo announced Williams’ comeback to RHOA — and her comprehensive scripted talent deal with NBCUniversal Entertainment — back in February.

According to the agreement, she will exclusively collaborate with NBCUniversal Entertainment for scripted projects spanning the company’s broadcast and streaming platforms.

“I’m incredibly thankful for the vision and faith NBCUniversal has put in me to be a larger part of their family,” Williams said on social media at the time. “I’m looking forward to being back on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and showing the world my new world!”

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