Podcast Summary: Watch What Crappens #2731 – RHOP S9E18 Reunion Part 1: Dame Danger
Release Date: February 17, 2025
Introduction
In episode #2731 of Watch What Crappens, hosts Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam dive into the highly anticipated reunion of The Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP) Season 9, Episode 18, titled "Dame Danger." This episode marked a significant moment for the RHOP cast, especially with the absence of Karen McCarranston, whose recent troubles have cast a shadow over the reunion.
Karen’s Absence and DUI Scandal
One of the most talked-about aspects of this reunion was Karen McCarranston’s absence. Karen had recently been found guilty of DUI and six other charges, leading her to check into a private recovery center just before the reunion.
Ben Mandelker highlights the situation:
"We see on screen December 20, 2024... Karen is in trouble." [07:06]
Ronnie Karam adds her perspective:
"I mean, we could have passed from me." [17:38]
The hosts discuss Karen’s attempt to manage her public image despite her legal woes, noting her use of personal apologies and symbolic gestures, such as wearing a fur cap—a nod to her past antics on the show.
Ben Mandelker mocks Karen’s attempts:
"I’m not a wig cap. I’m a fur cap... It was a cap of sadness." [07:06]
Karen’s demeanor during her pre-reunion apology video was critiqued for lacking genuine accountability, instead deflecting responsibility by citing antidepressants and alcohol as factors in her DUI.
Ronnie Karam observes:
"She’s taking responsibility while she’s not really taking responsibility for anything, which is a very Karen answer." [08:41]
Cast Members' Reactions and Interactions
The reunion episode was rife with tension as cast members addressed Karen’s absence and her actions leading up to it. Wendy, Giselle, Stacy, and Mia were central to the discussions, each bringing their own grievances and defenses into the spotlight.
Ben Mandelker comments on Wendy’s approach:
"I just want her to get help." [21:02]
Ronnie Karam humorously criticizes the dynamics:
"We love the way she goes from like melodrama, but that she's like melodrama." [25:31]
Stacy and Jassy emerged as focal points in confronting Mia about her perceived lack of support and honesty, leading to heated exchanges that the hosts found both entertaining and indicative of deeper issues within the group.
Ben Mandelker on Stacy’s confrontational style:
"She just keeps Repeating, you are a liar. You are a liar." [74:43]
Key Moments and Highlights
Several pivotal moments stood out during the reunion:
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Karen’s Apology and Presence: Despite being in rehab, Karen’s presence was felt through her pre-recorded apology video, which the hosts dissected for its lack of sincerity and accountability.
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Stacy and Jassy’s Confrontation with Mia: The tension between these cast members reached a boiling point as accusations flew regarding Mia’s reliability and honesty.
Ronnie Karam highlights:
"She just keeps Repeating, you are a liar. You are a liar." [74:43]
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Wendy’s Defensiveness: Wendy defended herself against criticisms, revealing the strained relationships and underlying conflicts within the group.
Ben Mandelker remarks:
"But does anybody here think that this is a valid criticism of Wendy?" [35:21]
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Giselle’s Petty Remarks: Giselle took jabs at other cast members, maintaining her role as a central figure of contention.
Hosts' Insights and Opinions
Ben and Ronnie provided their unique takes throughout the episode, blending humor with sharp critiques of the cast dynamics.
Ben Mandelker often lampooned the cast’s antics:
"I'm addicted to anything, it's driving." [11:23]
Ronnie Karam offered witty observations:
"I love my girl scout cookies... How do you stop eating those?" [13:48]
The hosts expressed amusement over the unpredictable nature of the reunion, particularly enjoying the confrontational moments and the unraveling of cast members’ alliances.
Ronnie Karam shares her enjoyment:
"When I tell you I was cracking up during this entire hour, everything was so funny." [83:53]
Conclusion
The first part of the RHOP Season 9 Reunion proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions, unmasking the raw tensions and unresolved conflicts among the cast. Karen’s absence due to her legal troubles set the stage for a dramatic confrontation among the remaining housewives, highlighting the fragility of their alliances and the enduring presence of past grievances.
Ben and Ronnie’s entertaining and incisive commentary provided listeners with both laughs and thoughtful analysis, making the episode a must-listen for fans eager to understand the intricate dynamics of The Real Housewives of Potomac.
Notable Quotes:
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Ben Mandelker:
"We see on screen December 20, 2024... Karen is in trouble." [07:06]
"She’s taking responsibility while she’s not really taking responsibility for anything, which is a very Karen answer." [08:41] -
Ronnie Karam:
"Oh, I have downloaded the wrong notes... All is right. Order has been restored into the Potomac recapping universe." [06:12]
"I did not coin the term Grandin. The lady to the left of me did." [36:45]
"I was cracking up during this entire hour, everything was so funny." [83:53] -
Andy Cohen:
"I liked Stacy even more after this reunion." [25:31]
"This is all italicizing the saints and..."
(Note: Some quotes have been paraphrased for clarity and relevance.)
This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the essence of the discussed reunion episode. For a more comprehensive understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.