Phaedra Parks is back in the spotlight as she reignites her presence in the popular Bravo series, The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA), after an eight-year hiatus. Her much-anticipated return signifies not only a new season for the show but also a fresh start for Parks, who has often been the center of controversy.
This new chapter begins with her tagline: “I returned from the dead, now let’s bury the past for good.” This clever quip not only references her absence from the series but also serves as a nod to her unique career as a mortician. Premiering on an episode set to air on June 1, Parks has made it clear she’s ready to take control of her narrative.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(561x0:563x2):format(webp)/rhoa-season-16-phaedra-parks-013025-1731dba16b4d4b66a92980db802b25c2.jpg)
Returning to a familiar atmosphere, Parks reunites with fellow reality stars Porsha Williams and Cynthia Bailey, two notable personalities she has shared the screen with in the past. Despite the rocky relationship that led to her departure in 2017, Parks appears optimistic about rekindling friendships and reigniting her chemistry with the cast.
In her comeback episode, which aired on May 25, she addressed the fallout from her infamous exit, which centered around her allegations regarding Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker. Parks admitted, “Unfortunately, the last time you saw me wasn’t my best moment,” reflecting on the tumultuous circumstances surrounding her departure. However, she urges viewers to reconsider their judgments, stating, “he who is without fault cast the first stone.” This introspection may hint at a more mature and reflective Parks in this season.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(753x400:755x402):format(webp)/rhoa-season-16-cast-tout-013025-c243febac2e94e37b31dee480e518f3c.jpg)
Parks’ relationship with Williams is also a focal point, having acknowledged past tensions but emphasizing the strength of their bond. “My relationship with Porsha is awesome,” she shared, reiterating that true friendships endure despite trials and tribulations. It remains to be seen how their dynamic will evolve throughout the season.
As the only returning housewife left from the past cast, Parks joins new faces like Angela Oakley and Brittany Eady, creating a mix that promises both drama and camaraderie. Parks expressed her enthusiasm for the season, stating, “We were the No. 1 franchise of Housewives, and I was a part of making that franchise successful. I would love to bring the franchise back to its heyday.” Her hopeful sentiments suggest a commitment to revitalizing the series, which has experienced fluctuating ratings over the years.
With her dynamic personality and quick wit, Phaedra Parks undoubtedly brings an exciting element back to RHOA. Will her efforts to ‘bury the past’ result in a smoother relationship with her castmates, or will old tensions resurface? Only time will tell as viewers tune in every Sunday at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo. As the season unfolds, fans are eager to see if Parks can recapture the charm that made her a staple in the franchise.