Vicki Gunvalson, with an inset of Michael and Vicki. KCR/Shutterstock, Courtesy Vicki Gvalson/Instagram
How long has it been? Vicki Gunvalson’s love tank been full? After going public, she now has a boyfriend. MichaelThe Real Housewives of Orange CountyGiving is what alum does Us WeeklyThe exclusive details
“We met in January through a mutual friend,” the 60-year-old Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip star told Us. “We are taking it very slow and we are both very aware of what happens to people dating in the public eye.”
Gunvalson went on to throw shade at her ex-fiancé, Steve Lodge.
“He is a MAN and doesn’t need my fame or money, which is something that my ex Steve wanted. He used me and thinks he’s ‘famous’ and so does his new wife,” she told Us. “It’s an equally respectful relationship that I am protecting with everything in me. Michael will never be ‘public.’ He has seen what has happened to boyfriends and husbands with the media.”
Gunvalson added: “He’s a breath of fresh air and my family all gave me a big thumbs up.”
The Bravo alum introduced Michael to her family — and the public — on Saturday, June 18.
Vicki Gunvalson and her family with Michael, her new boyfriend. Courtesy Vicki Gunvalson/Instagram
“My heart is happy,” she wrote via Instagram. “So great introducing Michael to my amazing family. There were lots of laughs and tons to have fun. #midwestern #family #love #pizza #baseball #grandchildren.”
Her former costar Kelly Dodd made it clear she approved, commenting, “Omg I love your family say hi to Mike from me ❤️❤️.”
While Gunvalson & Lodge broke the news in September 2021 about their split, viewers will see the drama unfold on the next season of Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip.
“Everybody had an opinion but nobody really knew him,” Tamra JudgeTelled UseGunvalson’s breakup was causing her to think about filming the series together. “I was the only one that actually knew him. I knew Vicki’s history, what had happened, and how it all led to it. Some of the other girls were harsh with their words. Some are harsh, some were very supportive.”
Lodge, on the other hand, was quick to move on and marry a teacher Janis CarlsonApril
“We are extremely happy and excited to be husband and wife,” he told UseIt was at the time. “Our relationship is incredible. We have created some wonderful memories already and can’t wait to create more.”
As the nuptials made headlines, Gunvalson tweeted: “People have been asking me to make a statement about my x-fiancé’s recent marriage. Here it is … I wish them the best. I’m just so thrilled and RELIEVED it wasn’t me at the altar with him.”
