Chrishell Stause, a founding member of Netflix’s reality series ‘Selling Sunset,’ has announced her departure after nine seasons, emphasizing that the show is no longer beneficial for her mental health and that she has achieved financial stability through other ventures. This decision, revealed in a Bustle interview published on November 7, 2025, marks the end of her role as a central figure in the long-running real estate drama.
Stause joined the show at its inception in 2019 and has been a key part of its narrative, often involved in high-profile conflicts and personal storylines that captivated audiences. Her exit comes as a surprise to fans who have followed her journey from the beginning, as she was one of the few original cast members still participating in the series. The announcement underscores a significant shift for the program, which has relied on her dynamic presence to drive viewer engagement over the years.
In her interview, Stause explained that while the opportunity was difficult to decline given her humble beginnings, she has reached a point where she no longer depends on the show for income. ‘I’ve gotten to a place where I don’t need the show financially,’ she stated, noting that she is fortunate to have other employment options that support her well-being. This financial independence allowed her to prioritize mental health over the drama-filled environment, a decision she described as necessary for her overall happiness and stability.
A major factor in her departure was the mental toll of ongoing conflicts, particularly her strained friendship with co-star Emma Hernan. Stause alleged that Hernan’s boyfriend, Blake Davis, made offensive remarks about non-binary individuals, which was personally distressing as her spouse, musician G-Flip, identifies as non-binary. She detailed how this situation, combined with other cast tensions, created an unsustainable work environment that exacerbated her stress and discomfort.
Stause also criticized the show’s editing, claiming that key context was omitted during the recently wrapped ninth season, which portrayed her in a negative light. ‘I get it; they want to make a light show,’ she said, but felt that working with ‘less problematic people’ would have made a difference. The editing choices, she argued, failed to vindicate her perspective on various issues, leaving her feeling misrepresented and adding to her frustration with the production process.
Despite these challenges, Stause expressed no ill will toward the series, acknowledging the opportunities it provided for career growth and visibility. She mentioned that even intense persuasion from show creator Adam DiVello, whom she claimed contacted her repeatedly, could not change her mind. Reflecting on her final reunion taping, she described it as a moment of resolve, promising herself she would never return to the demanding schedule and emotional strain.
Looking ahead, Stause plans to focus on projects that align with her identity, including more queer-centric roles in entertainment. She hinted at potential holiday movies or other ventures that celebrate diverse stories, moving away from the reality TV sphere to explore creative avenues that resonate personally. This career shift reflects a broader desire to engage with content that promotes inclusivity and allows for authentic self-expression.
Her departure raises questions about the future of ‘Selling Sunset,’ as she was a cornerstone of the cast, and her absence may impact the show’s dynamics and audience appeal. While Stause wishes the program success if it continues, she admitted she may not watch future seasons, preferring to distance herself from the drama. The producers have yet to comment on potential replacements or the series’ direction, leaving fans to speculate on how the void will be filled.
In closing, Stause reflected on her journey with gratitude, stating that she doesn’t want to be bitter about her exit, even if it wasn’t on her ideal terms. The show has been a pivotal part of her career, but she is ready to embrace new chapters with a focus on mental health and personal growth. Her decision highlights a growing trend among public figures to prioritize well-being over high-profile roles, setting an example for balancing professional success with self-care.
