Alexis Bellino leaving ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’

Alexis Bellino endured one hell of a seventh season of the Real Housewives of Orange County and while she publicly announced that it had left her wondering if returning to the show was the best thing for her, many doubted that she’d ever walk away. Now, after three seasons with Bravo’s hit show, Alexis has had enough.

Of her sudden exit, an insider tells Us Weekly, “Alexis was really tired of being bullied and chose home and family life over celebrity.” Though she allegedly had begun the negotiation process for season 8 with Bravo, in the end, Alexis just “wanted to go back to her simple life in Orange County.”

After last season’s infamous “Jesus Jugs” comment by Alexis’ co-star Tamra Barney, she and her husband Jim Bellino were up in arms. In fact, they even threatened to take legal action against her after what seems to have been their final straw.

“The Real Housewives of Orange County is a reality show that is meant to entertain and engage audiences with the lives of its cast members,” the couple told Us in a statement, adding that they were considering taking legal action against Barney. “This vicious and malicious attack on our family will no longer be tolerated. We have continually tried to take the high road, however, if necessary, we are prepared to defend ourselves against these unfounded, slanderous and defamatory remarks to the fullest extent of the law.”

Regarding the insider’s revelation of Alexis’ exit, Bravo states, “We have not yet made any announcements about a season 8 pick up or casting.”

While the cast has yet to be announced, what we do know is that a casting call did take place for a new housewife in the O.C. and now that we’re down to four housewives, we’ll surely be getting at least one new lady — if not two.