The world of the Real Housewives of Potomac (RHOP) has been in a frenzy since the introduction of Nneka Ihim in Season 8, Episode 3. Yet, how she’s been received by veteran Housewife Dr. Wendy Osefo is causing collective confusion among viewers. Known for their tantalizing banter, the Potomac Housewives thrive on honesty and builds friendship on the foundations of sisterhood. So naturally, when Nneka Ihim was introduced at Ashley’s housewarming, viewers expected a grand welcome. That wasn’t the case.
Nneka was welcomed cheerfully by most of the ladies. However, things could have been smoother with all Housewives. At the party, Ashley shared with Wendy about her luncheon with Nneka. The conversation discussed an article that labeled Wendy’s family as Osu. More awkwardness ensued when Wendy’s title came into light. Upon learning about Wendy being a doctor, Nneka sought clarification on her specialization. To this, Ashley promptly responded with “PhD Doctor of Psychology”. A seemingly innocent query, it ironically stirred the pot.
Following this incident, Wendy was seen insisting on being rightly addressed as ‘Doctor Wendy’. The typically poised Wendy was caught on camera in a different demeanor, this time talking down to Mia, another Housewife and the mother of a child with a learning disability. In a shocking turn of events, Wendy referred to Mia as “slow,” raising concerns over her insensitivity.
What compounds Wendy’s actions is her role outside of the RHOP spotlights. As an assistant professor at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University’s Doctor of Education Program, Wendy shoulders the responsibility of nurturing future scholars. Her primary research focuses on assessing barriers faced by marginalized student groups, delving into intersectional issues like race and socioeconomic status.
Despite Wendy’s commendable stride in academic circles, her conduct on RHOP paints a perplexing picture for the viewers. Her on-screen behavior, marked by name-calling and derogatory remarks targeting her own peers, contradicts her academic mission of fostering inclusivity, particularly towards those grappling with learning disabilities.
In the United States, numerous children like Mia’s son face learning disabilities, grappling with mental and learning challenges every day. Wendy’s comments are not just disrespectful towards Mia but also to this large community of children and their families struggling with learning disabilities. Celebrities like North West have spoken openly about her dyslexia, an effort to make learning disabilities a less taboo subject.
Wendy’s academic aspirations and research work are indeed commendable, as they aim to lift up suppressed underserved communities. However, her actions and remarks on RHOP significantly undercut those noble endeavors. The demeaning language and derogatory comments towards her peers, especially when they revolve around learning and intellectual abilities, negatively influence the show’s large audience. Instead of promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding, Wendy’s behavior on national television feeds into a harmful narrative.
The dynamic landscape of RHOP extends beyond enviable wardrobes and affluent lifestyle. It’s a platform of sisterhood, resilience, and overcoming adversity. Nneka’s arrival should have been an opportunity for connecting and embracing diversity within the group, especially among the Nigerian members. However, the stark contrast between Wendy’s action and her academic pursuit leaves the viewers contemplating the true essence of her character.
As the heated season unfolds, all eyes will be on Wendy – her words, actions, demeanor, and the potential shift towards a more inclusive, respectful treatment of her fellow Housewives, signaling growth and maturity. Meanwhile, the Housewives will continue to navigate an array of experiences, building bonds, and perhaps breaking barriers, making RHOP a mirror that reflects diverse facets of womanhood.