Carmella Garcia Discusses Her RHOC Debut and Oppenheim Group Support

Carmella Garcia, an agent with the Oppenheim Group, has navigated her first season on "The Real Housewives of Orange County" facing scrutiny but ultimately finding her footing. Garcia, who previously worked as a Playboy Playmate and WWE Diva, acknowledged that her unconventional past and lifestyle would likely be topics of discussion among the cast.

Early in the season, Garcia experienced friction with cast member Heather Dubrow, who reportedly called her "trashy" behind her back. However, Dubrow issued an apology, which Garcia accepted. "I extended grace to Heather because I do think Heather is a nice person," Garcia stated. "I don’t think that she intended to hurt me."

Another ongoing dynamic involves Vicki Gunvalson, an original cast member, who has publicly questioned Garcia's authenticity, her generosity with gifts, and even her place of residence. Garcia addressed these criticisms, calling Gunvalson's comments "projection." She hinted at a potential confrontation with Gunvalson at the upcoming season reunion, noting a lack of resolution between them.

Despite the on-camera drama, Garcia found support from her employer, Jason Oppenheim, of the Oppenheim Group, the luxury real estate brokerage featured in "Selling Sunset" and "Selling The OC." "He really eased my mind about things," Garcia said. "I’m really grateful to him."

Garcia revealed that Bre Tiesi, a colleague from the Oppenheim Group, would be a strong addition to "The Real Housewives of Orange County" if she were to join the show in the future, citing her "vibe."

Reflecting on her integration into the RHOC cast, Garcia admitted that her initial approach was intense. "It was a bit of a bumpy ride. They were probably suspicious because I came in very hard and fast," she explained. "It was too much too soon, but that’s my personality. I didn’t feel like I should change that."

Garcia also discussed the emotional toll of discussing past betrayals in her relationship with ex-boyfriend Danny Hampel on the show. She described the experience as cathartic, allowing her to process feelings of dishonesty and sadness.

Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Garcia teased that the upcoming cast trip to Tokyo will bring "chaos and drama." She also anticipates further discussions at the reunion, particularly regarding her relationship with Gunvalson and unresolved issues with Dubrow.