Season 17, Episode 4: You Can't DB Serious
Saddle up, because this week's episode of The Real Housewives of Orange County takes us on a trip to Montana, a land of wide-open spaces and even wider interpersonal conflicts. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of nostalgia, misplaced judgment, and a fight about... an acting audition? Let's unpack the drama, one bolo tie at a time.
A Trip Down Memory Lane (and a Louis Vuitton Detour)
The episode opens with the ladies prepping for their Montana getaway. We see Tamra unwrapping a questionable birthday gift from Eddie - a pair of Louis Vuitton boots that seem straight out of a 2011 collection. This moment highlights both the show's long history and the occasional fashion misstep, even for a luxury brand.
Double Standards and Teenage Rebellion
Shannon attempts to enforce some hilariously outdated rules on her teenage daughters. A ban on boys upstairs while she's away feels like a relic from a bygone era, ignoring both the fluidity of sexuality and the ingenuity of teenagers determined to explore. As the episode reminds us, parental pronouncements often fall on deaf ears when hormones are raging.
A Bi Icon Emerges (and a Bisexual Airline?)
In a significant moment for the franchise, Taylor Armstrong reveals her bisexuality. This makes her the first official LGBTQ+ cast member on The Real Housewives, even if it comes after appearances by Braunwyn Windham-Burke, Julia Lemagova, and the ever-fabulous Jenna Lyons. Jenn Nguyen, in a truly bizarre comment, declares Jet Blue the "bisexual of airlines." Let's just move on from that one.
A Mechanical Bull, a Costume Debacle, and Déjà Vu
Fast forward to Montana, where the obligatory group activities unfold. The mechanical bull ride provides some light entertainment, while Shannon's attempt at a surprise costume (remember the bear?) falls flat. Deja vu sets in as the trip feels more like a rehash of past outings, lacking the spark and spontaneity of earlier seasons.
The Infidelity Debate and the Polyamory Proposal
The simmering tension between Gina and Jenn explodes into a full-blown fight. Gina, triggered by Jenn's past infidelity, judges her harshly. This leads to a surprisingly progressive suggestion from the peanut gallery - Jenn might consider an open relationship if she wants her relationship with Ryan to thrive. This throws a wrench into the usual narrative, prompting viewers to consider the complexities of modern relationships.
Heather's Acting Reel and the Unprofessional Producers
The episode culminates in a bizarre feud between Heather and Taylor. Heather feels disrespected after being asked for an acting reel for a movie role she was offered. Heather's sense of entitlement clashes with Taylor's frustration over the lack of professionalism from the producers. This whole storyline feels manufactured and reeks of desperate attempts to drum up drama.
Is There Hope for Something New?
While this episode offered glimpses of the show's potential - a cast member coming out, a conversation about open relationships - it ultimately fell short. The reliance on tired tropes and recycled storylines leaves us yearning for something fresh. Can The Real Housewives of Orange County reinvent itself, or are we destined to relive the same old feuds with a Montana backdrop? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure - this trip felt less like a thrilling adventure and more like a visit to a dusty attic filled with faded memories.