Mary Bonnet, a foundational figure in the popular real estate reality series, has opened up about the profound challenges of filming the program’s latest season, describing it as an intensely emotional period marked by external crises and internal conflict.
In a recent discussion, Bonnet highlighted a significant shift in the show’s dynamics. “This season was dramatic in many ways,” she noted, citing evolving relationships, collective efforts to move past old grievances, and a series of personal hardships, including a devastating wildfire season and a break-in at her home. “It was a really emotional season for everybody,” she stated.
The season introduced new cast members, including Sandra Vergara, whom Bonnet praised for bringing a positive and humorous energy to the group. “She brings a different dynamic,” Bonnet said, expressing happiness about the new addition to their social circle. As one of the original agents, Bonnet often mentors newcomers, a role she embraced this season by guiding Vergara through an exceptionally difficult real estate market, which she described as worse than the 2008 housing crisis.
However, the professional mentorship was set against a backdrop of escalating personal tensions among the cast. Bonnet expressed frustration that the on-screen drama has tangible professional repercussions. “It affects productivity and our reputation,” she explained. “This behavior does not look good on me, even though I am not involved. I care about real estate, and I am like, ‘Guys, this does not look professional.'” She revealed that the perceived unprofessionalism has directly led to lost business deals, as some clients prefer to distance themselves from the spectacle.
While speculation swirled about her potentially leaving the brokerage at the center of the show, Bonnet confirmed she remains there for now. Yet, her continued association is not unconditional. “I am not going to go through this over and over again,” she declared. “The dynamic has to change—all of this hitting below the belt and horrible accusations is not something I want in my life.”
Bonnet detailed the personal toll the season took, from becoming an “emotional wreck” to giving up alcohol to better manage her heightened feelings. She has also made a conscious decision to avoid social media to protect her mental health. “I’ve worked too hard to be grounded and centered,” she admitted.
The veteran star also addressed the production of the season’s reunion special, suggesting that edited footage omitted crucial context, leading to frustration among the cast. “It was pure chaos,” she said of the lengthy filming process.
Looking ahead, Bonnet’s future on the series hinges on the atmosphere among the cast. “It depends on the dynamic and the way people are going to behave,” she stated firmly. “I’m not interested in being part of something super, super negative.”
Despite the season’s strains, Bonnet maintains that her relationships with most of her colleagues are strong. “I’m very good friends with almost everybody,” she said, positioning herself as someone who prefers to mend fences. However, she has set a clear boundary: “I just don’t want negativity around me… I am not going to mess up my mindset because other people can’t get along. I am going to focus on myself and try to do the best I can.”
