The singer, who joined the series in season 3, tells PEOPLE exclusively that she won’t be returning to the reality series for its upcoming ninth season.
“As I embark on a new chapter aftersix remarkable years withTheReal Housewives of Potomac, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching friendships, personal growth and moments of introspection that have defined this journey,” Dillard Bassett, 37, says.” With a whirlwind of new opportunities and responsibilities on my plate, I have decided to take a break fromRHOP.”
She goes on to tease that her exit might only be temporary, noting, “This is not a farewell, but a ‘see you later.’ “
The “Drive Back” songstress ends her note with a message of thanks to her fans. “Your unwavering support has been my guiding light, and I look forward to the exciting adventures that lie ahead — and more importantly, sharing them all with you!” she says.
Candiace Dillard Bassett on ‘Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen’.Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty
Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty
Jai Lennard/Bravo
Bravo famously doesn’t comment on casting, but a source close to production confirmed to PEOPLE Dillard Bassett made the choice to leave the franchise on her own.
Chris Bassett (left) and Candiace Dillard Bassett on ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’.Shannon Finney/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty
Since she debuted onRHOPin 2018, Dillard Bassett has given the series some of its funniest one-liners, with her quick wit and ruthless reads earning her a spot on Cohen’s list of “Shade Assassins.” But that mouth often got her in trouble with some of her costars, leading to dramatic clashes that sometimes left viewers polarized.
She also is one of the few Housewives in the history of the franchise to get married on the show. Her2018 wedding to now-husband Chris Bassettwas featured in season 4.
BeforeRHOP, Dillard Basset made a name for herself in the pageant world, winning Miss United States in 2013. A graduate of Howard University, she served a tenure in the White House Offices of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs under President Barack Obama, and as a staffer for President Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign.
Candiace Dillard Bassett at ‘Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen’.Charles Sykes/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank /Getty Images
But music has been where Candiace has really shined. She dropped her first album,Deep Space, in 2021. It included the hit single “Drive Back,” which Bravo fans dubbed the “song of the year” at the 2023 Bravos.
“This is a full-circle moment for me, and I thank you for being there from the beginning,” she told the crowd while accepting the honor. “And to my man, my man, my man, who this song was written about. No matter what miserable, sad souls may try to infiltrate our marriage, I will always drive back home to you. I love you, thank you.”
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
In addition toRHOP, Dillard Bassett premiered onthe third season ofReal Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip.
TheReal Housewives of Potomacairs Sundays (8 p.m. ET) on Bravo. All episodes also stream on Peacock.
source: people.com
