Gina Kirschenheiter shared her perspective on Shannon Beador’s approach to alcohol following Shannon’s DUI last year.
“First of all, I adore Shannon,” Gina, 40, told Us Weekly on Tuesday, July 30, while promoting season 18 of The Real Housewives of Orange County. “I didn’t expect to feel this way, but here we are.”
Gina noted that Shannon, 60, has undergone significant changes since season 17 of the show, largely due to the fallout from her DUI incident.
Shannon made headlines in September 2023 after being arrested for a hit-and-run and DUI in Newport Beach, California. She was subsequently sentenced to probation, fined, and required to complete community service and a nine-month alcohol program.
When Season 18 of Real Housewives of Orange County started filming, Shannon admitted that she is still drinking, though she claims to be doing so in moderation.
Gina addressed Shannon’s drinking choices with Us Weekly, stating, “It’s ultimately Shannon’s decision. It’s her life, and everyone has their own relationship with alcohol.”
Gina noted that Shannon is trying to balance her social life with her health. “People don’t just go through something significant and immediately change,” Gina said. “She’s currently reassessing her relationship with alcohol and trying to manage it. She has every right to make that decision.”
Gina added, “If Shannon wants to test whether she can be a responsible social drinker, and she’s taking steps to ensure she’s not endangering herself or others, then I support her.”
However, Gina also expressed ongoing concern for Shannon, revealing that she will be seen checking in on Shannon’s drinking throughout the season. “If that’s the approach Shannon wants to take and she’s putting in the work, then that’s her choice,” Gina said. “She might eventually decide that she can’t handle it and choose to stop, or she might find a healthier way to manage it.”
Last month, Shannon told Us Weekly that she recognizes she still has work to do in reshaping her life following her DUI incident.
In July, she discussed her ongoing journey with alcohol, saying, “I’ve made progress, but there’s still a lot of work ahead. I’m working with my therapist and continuing to see a psychiatrist from the 30-day program I completed. I feel like I’m making positive strides and trying to turn a difficult situation into something constructive.”
Shannon explained that she opted for therapy instead of rehab after recognizing that drinking had become a “coping mechanism.” She reflected on how her DUI occurred during a challenging period, including dealing with her youngest child, Stella, leaving for college.
Over the past year, Shannon has had the chance to reflect and focus on more positive activities. “I made a serious mistake later in my life, and I expected more from myself,” she said. “This experience has pushed me to reevaluate my life and recognize that there’s still a lot of work to do.”
She also shared, “This journey is likely going to be ongoing, but I feel good about where I am right now. Interestingly, I’m not seeking a relationship at the moment. I usually find purpose in being in a relationship, but right now, I’m focused on building a relationship with myself.”
As Shannon continues her journey, her former close friend Tamra Judge has been vocal this season about her disapproval of Shannon’s choice to keep drinking. Gina, however, believes Tamra’s reaction is understandable.
“I actually supported Tamra stepping back from their friendship because she was very close to Shannon during her struggles with alcohol,” Gina explained. “I get where Tamra is coming from. She said, ‘I just want you to stop drinking, and if you can’t, I need to distance myself.’ That makes sense.”
Gina did point out, though, that Tamra’s ongoing criticism of Shannon’s drinking in Season 18 became excessive.
“The issue wasn’t just Tamra stepping back; she continued to heavily criticize Shannon’s choices,” Gina said. “If you’re stepping away, you need to fully disengage. That’s the problem.”
Viewers will continue to see Shannon’s challenges with alcohol and her strained friendship with Tamra as the season progresses.
Catch The Real Housewives of Orange County on Bravo Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming on Peacock the following day.