Top 5 Worst Husbands In Real Housewives History

eality television has given us a glimpse into the lives of many individuals, and the Real Housewives franchise is no exception. While the focus is often on the housewives themselves, their husbands frequently become part of the narrative, sometimes for better, but often for worse. In this article, we'll dive into the top 5 worst husbands in the history of the Real Housewives franchise, exploring the reasons why they've earned this dubious distinction. From questionable behavior to controversial statements, these men have certainly left their mark on the show, and not always in a positive way.

1. The Infamous Brooks Ayers (The Real Housewives of Orange County)

When discussing the worst husbands, Brooks Ayers from The Real Housewives of Orange County inevitably tops the list. His relationship with Vicki Gunvalson was fraught with drama, but it was his cancer scandal that truly cemented his place in reality TV infamy. Ayers claimed to be battling cancer throughout several seasons, garnering sympathy and support from his partner and her friends. However, it was later revealed that he had fabricated the entire illness, producing falsified medical documents and misleading everyone around him. This deceit not only caused immense emotional distress to Vicki and her family but also damaged her reputation within the OC Housewives circle. His manipulative behavior and outright lies make him a clear contender for the worst husband in the franchise's history. The repercussions of his actions continue to be a topic of discussion among fans, solidifying his legacy as a master of deception on reality television. The saga surrounding Brooks Ayers serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for manipulation and deceit within relationships, especially when amplified by the spotlight of reality TV. His actions had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only Vicki's personal life but also her standing among her peers and the public perception of her character. The scandal highlighted the importance of authenticity and transparency in relationships, and the devastating impact that lies and deception can have on individuals and communities. It's a storyline that remains a significant part of the Real Housewives lore, frequently referenced in discussions about the show's most controversial moments.

2. Michael Darby (The Real Housewives of Potomac)

Michael Darby, husband of Ashley Darby from The Real Housewives of Potomac, has consistently been a source of controversy. His actions and behavior have raised eyebrows and sparked intense debates among viewers and his fellow cast members. Allegations of infidelity and inappropriate conduct have plagued his time on the show, casting a dark shadow over his marriage and causing considerable strain in his relationship with Ashley. Despite repeated denials and attempts to address the issues, the rumors and accusations have persisted, making him a divisive figure within the Real Housewives universe. His presence on the show has often been marked by tension and conflict, as his actions have been scrutinized and dissected by both the cast and the audience. The controversies surrounding Michael have not only impacted his personal life but have also become a central theme in Ashley's storyline, adding a layer of complexity to their relationship dynamic. Whether it's been allegations of inappropriate touching or rumors of infidelity, Michael's actions have consistently placed him under the microscope, making him a frequent topic of discussion and debate within the Potomac franchise. His reputation as one of the worst husbands in the series is largely due to the consistent stream of controversies and the impact they have had on his marriage and the dynamics of the show.

3. Joe Giudice (The Real Housewives of New Jersey)

Joe Giudice, the former husband of Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice, makes the list due to his legal troubles and the impact they had on his family. Joe's legal battles, including charges of fraud and tax evasion, resulted in a prison sentence and subsequent deportation to his native Italy. His actions not only jeopardized his own future but also placed immense stress on Teresa and their four daughters. The Giudices' financial struggles and legal woes were heavily documented on the show, providing a stark look at the consequences of their actions. Joe's legal issues and the resulting separation from his family have made him a controversial figure in the Real Housewives world. His deportation added another layer of complexity to the situation, leaving Teresa to navigate life as a single mother while dealing with the emotional toll of her husband's absence. Joe's actions serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of financial responsibility and the far-reaching consequences of legal missteps. His story highlights the challenges faced by families when a loved one is incarcerated or deported, and the impact it can have on relationships and personal well-being. The Giudice family's struggles have resonated with viewers, sparking conversations about the complexities of marriage, family, and the legal system. Joe's legacy on the show is one of both controversy and heartache, as his actions had profound implications for his family's future.

4. Apollo Nida (The Real Housewives of Atlanta)

Apollo Nida, the ex-husband of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Phaedra Parks, also lands on this list due to his involvement in criminal activities. Apollo's legal troubles, which included charges of fraud and identity theft, led to a lengthy prison sentence. His actions not only damaged his marriage to Phaedra but also cast a shadow over her reputation and career. The couple's marital struggles and Apollo's legal battles were a central storyline on the show, providing viewers with a glimpse into the challenges they faced. Apollo's criminal behavior and subsequent incarceration made him a controversial figure in the Real Housewives universe. His actions had significant consequences for Phaedra and their children, leading to the dissolution of their marriage and a period of upheaval in their lives. Apollo's story serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and the devastating impact that criminal activity can have on individuals and their families. His time on the show was marked by both drama and heartache, as his legal troubles overshadowed his personal relationships and contributed to the end of his marriage. Apollo's legacy on The Real Housewives of Atlanta is one of both notoriety and regret, as his actions had far-reaching implications for himself and those around him.

5. Simon van Kempen (The Real Housewives of New York City)

Simon van Kempen, the husband of Alex McCord from The Real Housewives of New York City, rounds out our list due to his sometimes-abrasive personality and his tendency to insert himself into the drama. Simon's outspoken nature and his eagerness to defend Alex often led to clashes with the other housewives. While he was fiercely loyal to his wife, his involvement in the show's conflicts sometimes exacerbated the tension. Simon's presence on The Real Housewives of New York City was often polarizing, as viewers had mixed reactions to his behavior. Some appreciated his loyalty and support for Alex, while others found his interventions to be meddlesome and disruptive. Simon's time on the show was marked by both memorable moments and controversial encounters, as he navigated the complex dynamics of the Real Housewives world. His willingness to engage in conflicts and defend his wife made him a notable figure in the series, even if his actions were not always well-received. Simon's legacy on the show is one of both loyalty and controversy, as his strong personality and outspoken nature left a lasting impression on viewers.

These worst husbands from the Real Housewives franchise have each left an indelible mark on the show, albeit for less-than-desirable reasons. Whether it's through deception, legal troubles, or simply stirring the pot, they've certainly made for compelling television. Their stories serve as a reminder that reality TV is often stranger than fiction, and that the lives of these housewives are filled with both glamour and drama. Want to delve deeper into the world of Real Housewives? Check out Bravo TV's official website for more insights and updates.