Chrishell Stause has made a clear break from her ‘Selling Sunset’ past by unfollowing most of her former castmates on Instagram, just days after announcing her departure from the Netflix reality series. This move underscores the deep rifts that developed during the show’s ninth season and her decision to prioritize her mental health over continued participation.
Chrishell Stause, who has been a central figure on ‘Selling Sunset’ since its 2019 debut, shocked fans last week by confirming her exit after nine seasons. The announcement was followed by a social media purge where she unfollowed nearly all of her co-stars, including Emma Hernan, Nicole Young, Bre Tiesi, Alanna Gold, Mary Bonnet, and Amanza Smith, with only Chelsea Lazkani remaining on her follow list. This action highlights the ongoing tensions that plagued the latest season, particularly with Hernan and Young, with whom Stause had previously been close. Despite the conflicts, Stause expressed no ill will toward the show or her castmates, wishing them the best in her public statements.
In an interview with Bustle, Stause explained that her departure was driven by a combination of financial independence and mental health concerns. She stated that the show was ‘no longer good for [her] mental health’ and that she no longer needed it financially, allowing her to step away without bitterness. Stause, 44, emphasized that the series had provided her with numerous opportunities, and she did not want to harbor negative feelings about her exit, even though it did not unfold as she might have preferred. This candid revelation sheds light on the personal costs of reality TV fame and the pressures faced by long-term cast members.
Stause specifically mentioned the challenges of filming the season nine reunion, where she felt obligated to endure the process despite the emotional strain. She recalled telling herself, ‘Sit here, get through it. You’re not a quitter, but you never have to do this again. And I promise you, to your soul, you won’t,’ indicating the profound impact the experience had on her. This mindset reflects the intense environment of the show, where conflicts often escalate into dramatic on-screen moments. Her decision to leave was ultimately a protective measure for her well-being, signaling a shift away from the toxicity she experienced.
The fallout from Stause’s departure and subsequent actions has reverberated through the cast. Mary Bonnet, another original member, recently spoke on Page Six’s ‘Virtual Real-Tea’ podcast, revealing that she has kept her distance from Stause after a tumultuous season. Bonnet described the situation as ‘bad’ and emphasized that the drama affects their real lives, not just the television narrative. She pointed out that misinformation and untruths circulating have caused genuine harm, blurring the lines between entertainment and personal reality for those involved.
Bonnet also shared her own journey toward better mental health, including quitting drinking to reduce anxiety. She noted that while alcohol once helped her cope with stress, it eventually exacerbated her anxiety in the high-drama environment of the show. Her decision to abstain has improved her well-being, mirroring Stause’s emphasis on mental health. Bonnet, 45, explained that she took a break from drinking not because of any major incident but as a proactive step for her health, feeling great as a result. This parallel between the two cast members highlights a broader trend of self-care in the reality TV industry.
The series, which has built a reputation for its glamorous real estate settings and intense personal conflicts, now faces uncertainty with Stause’s exit. Her departure raises questions about the future dynamics of the cast and the show’s ability to maintain its appeal without one of its most prominent stars. As reality television continues to grapple with the mental health of its participants, Stause’s move may inspire broader conversations about the toll of such productions. The unfollowing incident serves as a symbolic end to an era, potentially influencing how networks and producers address cast welfare in future seasons.
Looking ahead, the focus may shift to how ‘Selling Sunset’ adapts to Stause’s absence and whether other cast members follow suit in prioritizing their mental health. The show’s producers and Netflix have yet to comment on potential changes, but Stause’s exit could prompt reforms in how reality TV handles interpersonal conflicts and supports its stars. Her actions remind viewers that behind the glamour and drama, real people are navigating complex emotional landscapes, and sometimes stepping away is the healthiest choice.
