“The Real” co-hosts sat down for their first interview since Tamar Braxton’s sudden exit.
On June 21, Loni Love, Adrienne Bailon, Jeannie Mai, and Tamera Mowry-Housley sat down with “Extra’s” Mario Lopez, at Universal Studios Hollywood, where they cleared the air on all the drama and speculation surrounding Braxton’s emotional goodbye.
When asked about Braxton’s absence for season three, Love said, “First of all, we want to let all of our fans know that we love them and we were totally taken by surprise when we found out that Tamar wouldn’t be returning to ‘The Real.’ We love her.”
Mario noted that the ladies all seemed to get along when he was around them, and they all agreed. Mowry-Housley added, “We will miss her dearly.”
As previously reported, on Saturday, May 21, the WE tv star used Instagram to write of a recent betrayal amid reports she had been fired from the syndicated talk show.
“I love u all but I have been stabbed in the back by someone I stupidly trusted ( not my man or my sisters) I am not about to be tried and tested to snitch (?) and it’s not in good taste to tell you who…… but as #tamartians you are very smart and can figure things out on your own. But know that every one who smiles in your face is NOT your friend and is NOT cheering for you and will LIE and try and tear u down to TRY and dim your light.”
Of course, this was enough to get the rumor mill going with claims that Braxton’s “ghetto” antics (which allegedly cost the network big numbers) were responsible for her termination. Meanwhile, on Sunday, May 22, “The Real” along with Braxton issued an official “joint” statement in response to the backlash. “ ‘The Real’ and Tamar Braxton have mutually decided that Tamar will not be continuing with the show for its upcoming third season. She will be leaving in order to concentrate on her solo career. Everyone associated with ‘The Real’ appreciates Tamar’s efforts and the contributions she has made to the show’s success, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
While it appeared no one expected the 39-year-old to come out on top, just days later, Steve Harvey came to the rescue, handing Braxton a golden ticket — her very own talk show. “Happy. Positive. And not an ill will toward ANYONE or ANYTHING❣ check me out on @iamsteveharveytv morning show tomorrow and hear why I have so much JOY! God is in control. … And he has prepared me for what’s to come? I may joke or shade( and that’s just jokes)? but know in order for him to use me my HEART is pure and FULL of LOVE! Walk into your light and destiny?? I love u all,“ revealed the “Love and War” vocalist via Instagram on June 2.
Now, as it appears everyone has moved on and the waters have settled (for now), “The Real” co-hosts went on to reveal, they’re taking over 2016 Essence Festival. “We are going down to New Orleans, July 1. We are having a real live show on the ESSENCE main stage [in the Convention Center] — it’s free, anybody can come. We’re gonna have some live girl chat. We’re gonna be doing everything we can to give and show love to our fans,” said Love.
The outspoken women will also host a day party during the annual event, at the Sugar Mill on Sunday, July 3. “We are having a white party, which I’m so excited about,” said Bailon.
Up next, “The Real” will return for season three on Sept.12. However, there’s been no word whether Braxton will be replaced. Will you be watching? Sound off in the comment section below.
