Karen Huger of 'RHOP' breaks silence on DUI: 'I healed myself' - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Alexandra Del Rosario

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Karen Huger, a prominent cast member of *Real Housewives of Potomac*, has opened up about her 2024 DUI arrest and subsequent six-month jail sentence in a heartfelt interview with Sherri Shepherd. Reflecting on her journey, Huger shared how the incident forced her to confront her struggles with alcohol addiction and grief after losing her mother. She described her time in jail as a period of self-improvement, during which she sought treatment for her addiction and even led Alcoholics Anonymous meetings behind bars. Huger revealed that prior to the accident, she had been a “functional addict,” hiding her drinking while filming *RHOP*. The crash, which occurred in Potomac after she drove under the influence, left her grateful for her survival and remorseful over the risks she took. She emphasized that her exterior transformation—evident in her stylish appearance during the interview—was secondary to the internal healing she had experienced. In reflecting on her experience, Huger acknowledged the pain her arrest caused her adult children, whom she saw through a jail window during her incarceration. She expressed her determination to avoid such a situation in the future and shared how her sobriety journey has been motivated by her desire to set a better example for them. While her plans to return to *RHOP* remain unclear, Huger remains focused on her recovery, describing herself as “clean” and continuing to share her story to inspire others. This candid discussion not only sheds light on the consequences of drunk driving but also highlights the resilience of those who seek redemption and recovery. As a public figure, Huger’s openness about her struggles adds weight to the importance of addressing addiction and emotional well-being, making her story both relatable and impactful for readers interested in personal transformation and mental health.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/13/2026