Nene Leakes and Claudia Jordan won't be in season 8 of "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," which is why two new resident housewives are coming to turn up the drama. Joining Cynthia Bailey, Kandi Burruss, Phaedra Parks and Kenya Moore are Sheree Whitfield and Marlo Hampton.
The two women were reportedly spotted at Bailey's eyewear launch party, where they got into an argument with Cynthia's husband Peter Thomas. According to reports, Whitfield will be scooping a big paycheck for her return, virtually as the replacement of Leakes, who was an original "RHOA" cast member.
"Real Housewives of Atlanta is the crown jewel in Bravo's crown, and it has always been a ratings hit," an insider told Radar Online. "Bringing back Sheree could be a headache for the crew behind the scenes, but she has really matured since the time she was initially on."
"Producers initially offered $100,000, and Sheree balked at the insulting offer. Finally, the contract was signed for $250,000, with an option to do another season at a higher salary," the source explained, adding that the star was already at $350,000 during her fourth season in the show.
TMZ also reported that former cast member Marlo Hampton will pop up here and there in season 8 and when she does, it looks like there will be more tension to expect. Rumor also has it that Leakes will also occasionally appear in the show.
The rumor mill doesn't rest as there is also word that "Facts of Life" star Kim Fields will be on board in season 8. This is allegedly part of Bravo's way to bulk up the cast now that veteran housewife Leakes has left the long-running reality show.
Lastly, Kandi Burruss already said that her part in the show will mostly be about her pregnancy.
