Kristen Doute’s controversial tenure at SUR came to an abrupt end during Season 8, Episode 20, titled “Next Level Scheana” which aired on May 26, 2020. Her firing stemmed from a racially insensitive incident involving former co-star Faith Stowers.
The Defining Moment: “Next Level Scheana” and the Fallout
The circumstances surrounding Kristen’s firing are complex, deeply rooted in past conflicts and exacerbated by heightened social awareness surrounding racial injustice. The episode itself focuses less on the firing moment and more on the escalating tensions leading up to it, showcasing the unraveling relationships within the Vanderpump Rules cast. While the actual termination isn’t explicitly shown, it’s heavily implied and subsequently confirmed in later scenes and public statements.
The core issue lies in Kristen and Stassi Schroeder’s alleged involvement in falsely reporting Faith Stowers to the police for a crime she didn’t commit. This action was viewed as racially motivated, fueled by jealousy and unfounded accusations. The resurfacing of this incident, coupled with mounting public pressure, ultimately led to both Kristen and Stassi being fired from Vanderpump Rules.
The episode, while centered around Scheana Shay’s attempts to navigate her relationship with a then-current partner, paints a clear picture of the strained dynamics within the group. The tension is palpable, and the undercurrent of the Faith Stowers situation is undeniable. While Lisa Vanderpump doesn’t explicitly announce the firing during the episode, the gravity of the situation is evident, and the subsequent aftermath confirms Kristen’s departure.
Understanding the Context: The Faith Stowers Incident
To fully understand Kristen’s firing, it’s crucial to delve into the details of the Faith Stowers incident. In 2018, Stowers, who is Black, had a brief romantic encounter with Jax Taylor while he was dating Brittany Cartwright. After this revelation, Stowers alleged that Kristen and Stassi, fueled by anger and suspicion, falsely identified her to the police as a woman wanted for robbery.
This accusation resurfaced in 2020 during the burgeoning Black Lives Matter movement, sparking widespread outrage. Many viewers called for the firing of Kristen and Stassi, deeming their actions racially charged and unacceptable. The incident highlighted the importance of allyship and the consequences of perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
The Aftermath: Life After SUR for Kristen Doute
Kristen’s firing marked a significant turning point in her career. After spending years as a central figure on Vanderpump Rules, she was forced to navigate a new path outside the reality television spotlight.
- Professional Endeavors: Kristen has since focused on her other ventures, including her apparel line, James Mae, and her podcast. She’s also been vocal about her personal growth and commitment to learning from her past mistakes.
- Personal Relationships: The fallout from the firing also impacted Kristen’s personal relationships. While some friendships remained strong, others were strained by the controversy.
- Continued Presence in Media: Despite no longer being on Vanderpump Rules, Kristen has remained active on social media and has participated in other media projects, maintaining a presence in the public eye.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Kristen Doute’s firing from SUR and the surrounding circumstances:
H3: What exactly did Kristen Doute do to get fired?
Kristen was fired for her involvement in falsely reporting Faith Stowers to the police for a crime she didn’t commit. This action, deemed racially insensitive, prompted widespread calls for her removal from Vanderpump Rules.
H3: Did Stassi Schroeder get fired at the same time?
Yes, Stassi Schroeder was fired at the same time as Kristen Doute. They were both involved in the Faith Stowers incident and faced similar consequences.
H3: Was Lisa Vanderpump involved in the decision to fire Kristen?
While the exact details of the decision-making process are confidential, it’s widely believed that Lisa Vanderpump, as an executive producer of the show, played a significant role in the firings. Ultimately Bravo network made the formal decision.
H3: Has Kristen Doute publicly apologized for her actions?
Yes, Kristen Doute has issued several public apologies for her actions towards Faith Stowers. She has also expressed a commitment to educating herself and becoming a better ally.
H3: Did Faith Stowers press charges against Kristen and Stassi?
Faith Stowers did not press charges against Kristen and Stassi. However, she has spoken extensively about the emotional distress caused by their actions.
H3: What episode does Stassi get fired from SUR?
As mentioned above, both Kristen and Stassi were fired around the same time, but the specific episode most closely associated with the consequences is Season 8, Episode 20, “Next Level Scheana.” While neither firing is explicitly depicted, the episode lays the groundwork and features the heavy tension surrounding the situation. Stassi’s departure is heavily implied in subsequent episodes and confirmed through public statements. Technically, neither were fired directly from SUR, but from the show Vanderpump Rules.
H3: Did any other cast members face consequences for their involvement?
While Kristen and Stassi were the only cast members fired, other cast members, including Jax Taylor, were criticized for their past actions and statements related to the Faith Stowers incident.
H3: Has Kristen Doute returned to Vanderpump Rules since her firing?
As of the most recent seasons, Kristen Doute has not returned to Vanderpump Rules as a full-time cast member. There have been rumors and speculation about potential guest appearances, but nothing has been officially confirmed. She has, however, reappeared in the most recent season (Season 11) as a guest.
H3: Where is Kristen Doute working now?
Kristen Doute is currently focused on her apparel line, James Mae, and her podcast, Sex, Love, and What Else Matters. She also remains active on social media and participates in various media projects.
H3: What has Faith Stowers said about the firings?
Faith Stowers has stated that while she appreciates the acknowledgment of the wrongdoings, her primary focus is on raising awareness about racial injustice and promoting positive change.
H3: How did fans react to Kristen Doute’s firing?
The reaction to Kristen Doute’s firing was mixed. Some viewers supported the decision, believing it was a necessary consequence for her actions. Others felt that she was unfairly targeted and that the punishment was too severe.
H3: What can be learned from this situation?
The Kristen Doute situation serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, empathy, and understanding in addressing issues of race and privilege. It also highlights the potential consequences of perpetuating harmful stereotypes and engaging in racially insensitive behavior, especially within the public eye. It also demonstrates the power of social media and public opinion in shaping narratives and influencing decisions within the entertainment industry. This situation underscores the critical need for personal growth, accountability, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.