Gina Kirschenheiter has offered a defense of her "Real Housewives of Orange County" co-star Shannon Beador, following public criticism from a former producer. Patrick McDonald, who worked on Season 18 of the Bravo series before leaving reality television production, accused Beador of alleged outbursts and described her as "miserable" and "narcissistic" in a social media comment.
Kirschenheiter, speaking exclusively to Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea,” expressed skepticism about McDonald's specific claims, stating she did not necessarily witness the behavior described by the ex-producer. "I feel like if he’s referencing something, he’s referencing something from like a more private moment. I’ve not necessarily seen that," Kirschenheiter said.
While acknowledging that she has seen Beador have moments of anger, Kirschenheiter pointed to the on-camera context provided by the show, particularly Season 18. This season was notably challenging for Beador, who had to film scenes involving her ex-boyfriend John Janssen and his then-girlfriend, now wife, Alexis Bellino. Kirschenheiter suggested that Beador's reactions were understandable given these circumstances, which were also depicted on the show. "When she’s dealing with, like, she’s afraid that her ex’s feelings … and so she’s flipping out," Kirschenheiter explained. "And they also showed all that, you know? So, that to me, what they’ve showed, what you’ve seen, is what I’ve seen."
Beador herself addressed McDonald's allegations on Jamie Kennedy’s “Hate to Break It to Ya” podcast. She disputed the producer's account, asserting that she treated the crew with respect during the filming of Season 18 and even mentioned cooking dinner for McDonald. Beador stated she was "very withdrawn" during that period.
Kirschenheiter also commented on her current relationship with Beador, noting that they are on good terms. "I love Shannon. I love her," Kirschenheiter said.
"The Real Housewives of Orange County" airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo, with new episodes available to stream the next day on Peacock.