In a move that has stunned fans of the hit property programme, Chrishell Stause has confirmed she is leaving Selling Sunset after nine seasons. The 44-year-old, who has been a central figure since the show's 2019 debut, revealed her decision was driven by the significant pressure of filming and its detrimental impact on her wellbeing.
The Reason Behind the Exit
Speaking candidly to Bustle, Stause explained her position. 'I’ve gotten to a place where I don’t need the show financially,' she stated. 'I’m lucky to have other forms of employment, because it’s no longer good for my mental health.' Despite her departure, she expressed no ill will towards the production that launched her into the spotlight, acknowledging the many opportunities it afforded her.
Her exit follows a period of intense on-screen conflict, particularly with fellow cast member Nicole Young. The most recent season saw tensions boil over at a fiery dinner party. The argument, which originated from Young's false claims that co-star Emma Hernan was involved with a married man, took a deeply personal and shocking turn.
A Heated Confrontation and Its Aftermath
The situation escalated dramatically when Young made an insensitive comment referencing Stause's deceased parents. Stause's father, Jeff, died from lung cancer in 2019, and her mother tragically passed away from the same disease a year later. After Stause brought up prior accusations concerning Young, Young retorted: 'Honey, you’re confusing me with your parents, OK? You seem to be obsessed with drugs.'
The remark was met with immediate outrage from the other women present. Amanza Smith, 48, responded fiercely, stating, 'I hope you are on drugs because this is f***ing inexcusable,' and demanded Young leave. Young defended her comment by arguing that Stause had previously spoken about her parents' struggles with addiction.
The fallout was severe. Following the incident, Oppenheim Group bosses Brett and Jason Oppenheim reprimanded Nicole Young and fired her from her position as a real estate agent. Online, fans were divided; some labelled Young's comment 'diabolical', while others felt it was a reaction to being persistently called a drug addict.
Moving On From the Drama
This was not the only controversy Stause faced recently. Earlier this year, she was forced to apologise to viewers after homophobic remarks were made about her spouse, non-binary musician G Flip, by her co-star's stylist. Stause also feuded with Emma Hernan over Hernan's romance with Blake Davis, after Davis allegedly 'compared being nonbinary to having a mental illness'.
Now, by stepping away from the show, Chrishell Stause is prioritising her peace. She concluded her comments by wishing the show well if it continues, but admitted she may not tune in for future seasons. Her departure marks the end of an era for one of Selling Sunset's original stars, closing a chapter defined by high-stakes property deals and even higher-stakes personal drama.
