The Real Reason Porsha Williams Left The Real Housewives Of Atlanta

In September 2021, Porsha Williams announced that she would not be returning to "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" after nine seasons on the show. "After ten life-changing, gratifying, incredible years, it is finally time to begin my next chapter," Williams wrote on Instagram. Adding, "This was a difficult decision to not only make, but also come to terms with. It's one I have put a lot of thought into and because of that, I know it's the right one."

Williams decision may have come as a surprise to some, as the Georgia native had previously taken part in a spin-off special focusing on her engagement to Simon Guobadia. "Her and NeNe literally carried 'RHOA.' Idk who they are going to get to make the same impact," one fan tweeted. While another suggested that Williams was trying to avoid answering questions about her seemingly messy union with Guobadia. However, Williams has since spoken out for herself and has revealed the simple reason she decided to step away from "RHOA."

Porsha Williams has opened up about her departure from Bravo's "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," and explained that the timing simply felt appropriate. "I knew that I wanted to semi-retire at 40," Williams told Variety. "After I had my daughter, listen — I just knew she was my world. That's it. I just want as much time with her as possible. And with me in the past dealing with mental health, I knew that I needed to be as healthy mentally as I could be. No drama. Just in a happy peaceful place for my baby girl."

Since leaving the show, Porsha appears to be enjoying her new-found free time. The "Pursuit of Porsha" author regularly posts adorable videos on Instagram of her daughter, Pilar, and moments from her adventures with Simon Guobadia. In addition, Williams announced in December 2021 that her first memoir had become a national bestseller, so the reality star has lots of happiness to be revel in. 

Porsha Williams' success run on "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" was even a surprise to her — as she was certain she would be fired after her first season. During an appearance on "Watch What Happens Live" with Andy Cohen, Williams recalled feeling like her job was in jeopardy after her ex-husband, Kordell Stewart, refused to attend the season reunion. "When I was sitting on that couch [at the reunion], and I had asked my ex to come to the reunion, and he didn't come, I was like 'Lord, this is big,'" William said. Cohen then confirmed that Williams was on the chopping block following her first season on the show, but she "cemented her place on the show," at the Season 5 reunion.

Williams has remained relatively mum about her plans for the future. However, she has hinted at a possible career switch – which involves the help of an EGOT-winning entertainer. In May, the GoNaked Hair founder shared images from her time on an unidentified movie set — alongside John Legend. In the Instagram caption, "Honored... God's blessings."