Years of reigning queen in Bravo's hit reality series, "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," NeNe Leakes has decided to step down from her throne and venture out to pursue a career outside the show. The announcement regarding her move to quit the show was made official on Monday after the reality star herself sent her statement to Us Weekly.
"After seven seasons of being part of Real Housewives of Atlanta, I can confirm that I am not going to be returning to the show for Season 8," Leakes tells Us Weekly. Expressing her gratitude to Bravo, the network that showcased "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," Andy Cohen and True Entertainment, the reality star acknowledges their support and contribution to her growth both personally and professionally. While Leakes, otherwise known as NayNay, admits that the decision broke her heart, she also shares that new things await her after the conclusion of her contract with the show.
She says, "Being part of RHOA has been a big part of my life but I'm excited for new the beginnings I am pursuing and embarking upon." Leakes adds, "Thank you so much to everyone who has watched and supported me over the years on this amazing platform. With lots of thought and prayer I've decided to step out on faith and not fear."
The reality star echoes the same sentiments in her social media accounts where she took it upon herself to break the news to her fans and followers. "This is so hard for me to type! I cry as I do so! I am so Grateful for all the love and laughs! Thank you so much to everyone that has watched and supported me over the years on this amazing platform! With lots of thoughts and prayer I've decided to step out on faith and not fear. #nomoRHOA4me," she wrote in Instagram along with a photo of herself which appears to be a screen grab from one of the episodes of the show.
The departure of Bravo's inarguably biggest star will definitely affect the network in terms of performance and ratings. However, the company remains supportive of Leakes as it wishes the actress the best of luck in her future projects. "We wish NeNe well after seven memorable seasons of the 'Real Housewives of Atlanta,'" says a spokesperson from Bravo, according to Variety. The rep adds, "We will miss her bloop bloop's and her great one liners. We look forward to the eighth season of the 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' in the fall."
