Reality Stars Embrace Vulnerability in ‘House of Villains’ Season 3
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The third season of Peacock’s “House of Villains,” premiering Thursday, brings together a colorful cast of reality television personalities, trading cutthroat competition for a surprising dose of self-reflection. While vying for a $200,000 prize, contestants from shows like “Selling Sunset,” “Survivor,” and “Below Deck” found themselves revealing more vulnerable sides than audiences might expect.
The premise of “House of Villains” sets the stage for drama, but several cast members described the experience as surprisingly lighthearted. Tyson Apostol, winner of “Survivor” Season 27, noted the difference in intensity compared to his previous reality TV experience. “It’s a little more light-hearted,” Apostol, 46, said. “With Survivor eliminations, everyone is so secretive. This was not as stressful as that.”
The show’s challenges, ranging from cake eating to equipment smashing, are overseen by host Joel McHale, adding to the playful atmosphere.
For some, the experience offered a chance to connect with fellow reality stars they’d previously only observed from afar. Christine Quinn, of “Selling Sunset” fame, admitted to initial apprehension about co-stars Jackie Christie (“Basketball Wives”) and Drita D’Avanzo (“Mob Wives”). “I think we all got to show our vulnerable sides, who we really are,” Quinn, 37, explained. “I told Drita, ‘I’m so scared of Jackie,’ but then I got to know her and I was like, ‘Oh my God, she’s a sweetheart.’”
D’Avanzo, 50, found a welcome change of pace from the world of “Mob Wives.” “It’s like swimming with piranhas and then asking me what it’s like to walk through the woods,” she said, taking on a maternal role within the house, preparing meals for her fellow contestants.
Beyond the camaraderie, “House of Villains” also provided an opportunity for contestants to reclaim their narratives. Johnny Middlebrooks, known from “Love Island,” observed that producers often focus solely on the “villainous” aspects of reality stars. “They only show things that correlate with you being a villain,” he said, “so to speak. To have a show that allows you to just laugh and joke and have a good time is refreshing.”
The show isn’t without its challenges, both literal and emotional. Ashley Mitchell, a “Challenge” champion, welcomed the more luxurious accommodations after enduring grueling outdoor competitions. “I get treated like a human,” Mitchell, 38, quipped. “I’m not going back to eating worms no more… unless Joel asks me to.”
As the season unfolds, contestants anticipate increasingly outlandish challenges. Paul Abrahamian, known from “Big Brother,” hinted at escalating stakes. “There’s a lot of over the top competitions,” he said. “If you think it’s bad, they make it worse.” Kate Chastain, from “Below Deck,” agreed, adding, “Every challenge moving forward gets progressively wackier and harder.”
“House of Villains” Season 3 is produced by Irwin Entertainment and streams on Peacock.
