Chrishell Stause’s decision to step away from Selling Sunset after nine seasons has sent shockwaves through reality television fandom, but for the actress-turned-reality star, this choice was far from impulsive or superficial. What began in 2019 as a breakout role on Netflix’s high-end real estate reality series eventually became something that, in her own words, was “no longer good for my mental health.” After years of navigating on-screen drama, professional conflict, and intense public scrutiny, Stause has reached a turning point in her career and her personal life, ultimately deciding that staying on Selling Sunset was no longer sustainable for her well-being.
From the beginning, Stause’s presence on the show was magnetic. She brought to the series an emotional depth rooted in her own life experiences — from her earlier work as a soap actress to her highly publicized personal relationships. Over nine seasons, her storylines often intertwined with both real estate negotiations and raw interpersonal tension among castmates, making her one of the series’ most compelling figures. Yet behind the glamour and negotiation of multimillion-dollar properties was an increasingly visible strain that the cameras couldn’t hide. What once may have felt like exciting reality TV became a source of relentless pressure, both on and off camera.
In a candid interview that confirmed her departure, Stause explained that the show’s impact on her mental health was the main factor in her choice to leave. Over the years, the accumulation of public exposure, constant industry attention, and interpersonal drama with fellow cast members pushed her to a breaking point. She candidly acknowledged that earlier in her life she might never have walked away from such an opportunity, especially given her humble beginnings and the financial security the show provided early on. However, as her career diversified and her financial independence grew, she realized that her priorities had shifted — and that sometimes stepping back was necessary for self-preservation.
One of the central elements amplifying the stress for Stause was how certain conflicts were framed on the show itself. Editing choices and narrative decisions by producers often emphasized discord, leaving Stause feeling misrepresented at times and frustrated by how certain situations were portrayed. While producers might argue that heightened conflict drives ratings and entertainment value, for Stause the cost was increasingly high. She made it clear that the toll of being positioned within manufactured drama — or real drama played out under the intense scrutiny of audiences — was no longer worth the trade-off.
A substantial part of the controversy stemmed from real tensions with other cast members. While drama has always been part of the Selling Sunset formula, things escalated in the most recent season. Stause was involved in a publicized clash with Emma Hernan, a former friend and colleague. The fallout centered around Stause’s claims about Hernan’s boyfriend’s remarks regarding gender pronouns and other sensitive topics — a situation that spilled over from private conversations into the show’s season arc and social media exchanges. Though both sides offered differing accounts, the conflict undeniably added to Stause’s frustration with the environment surrounding the series.
But the stress wasn’t just about disagreements with co-stars. Throughout her time on the series, Stause has also had to handle backlash from viewers, some of which was uncomfortably personal. Her marriage to nonbinary musician G Flip and the scrutiny that relationship drew from certain corners of the internet exposed her to homophobic and transphobic commentary that would have been difficult for anyone to navigate publicly. Off-air, grappling with prejudice while trying to maintain a sense of self and pride likely contributed to her decision to step back from the relentless cycle of reality TV drama.
In her statement about leaving the show, Stause expressed deep gratitude for what Selling Sunset did for her career and her public platform. The series gave her millions of fans around the world and opened doors to opportunities outside of reality television. For all the challenges it brought, it was also the vehicle that transformed her into a household name and a recognizable figure in entertainment beyond the confines of Los Angeles real estate. She made a point of acknowledging how much the show has given her, aiming to leave without bitterness despite her concerns.
This decision to move on seems particularly meaningful considering where Stause stands now in her life and career. She has pursued other avenues, including roles outside of Selling Sunset and creative pursuits that don’t involve the constant pressures of reality TV. With her increased financial independence and a broader portfolio of work, she is in a position many reality stars never reach — the genuine ability to choose what comes next without feeling tethered to a lucrative but draining show.
Another factor that influenced Stause’s choice was the Season 9 reunion, which many insiders described as intense. Reunion specials often bring unresolved issues to the forefront, and in Stause’s case, the experience appears to have crystallized how much she had been carrying emotionally. While her public persona has often been polished and composed, the reunion’s confrontations highlighted the personal cost of years spent navigating cast dynamics and public judgment all at once.
Since officially announcing her departure, Stause’s social media behavior has reflected a clearer sense of separation from the Selling Sunset world. Reports suggest she has distanced herself from many of her former costars on platforms like Instagram, keeping only a few close connections intact. This symbolic action underscores her desire to walk away from that chapter fully, not just contractually but emotionally.
Looking ahead, fans are already speculating about what Stause will do next. Some reports hint at new collaborations and projects that tap into her personality, expertise, and charisma without the same toxic elements that made Selling Sunset increasingly difficult for her. Whether she returns to acting, explores new reality formats, or launches something entirely different, it’s clear that her departure opens up fresh possibilities rather than signaling an end to her career.
For many viewers, Stause’s exit serves as a reminder that reality television, for all its glamour and drama, can come at a very real emotional price. Her choice echoes a growing conversation within the entertainment industry about mental health, the ethical implications of reality TV production, and the importance of self-care in high-pressure roles. While fans will undoubtedly miss her presence on Selling Sunset, her departure also represents a powerful affirmation of setting boundaries and prioritizing well-being over spectacle.
In the end, Chrishell Stause’s exit from Selling Sunset isn’t just another celebrity headline — it’s a story about personal growth, resilience, and the courage to walk away from something familiar in search of peace and purpose. As she embarks on her next chapter, her journey continues to captivate audiences, but this time on her own terms.
