Additional Coverage:
- Jen Shah released from prison early after Andy Cohen said he ‘never’ wants to see RHOSLC alum again (the-independent.com)
Jen Shah Released Early from Prison, “Real Housewives” Return Unlikely
Bryan, TX – Jen Shah, formerly of “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” has been released early from federal prison, but her path back to reality television appears to be permanently closed.
Shah, 52, walked free Wednesday morning from Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas. Her representative confirmed to People that she served less than three years of her initial six-and-a-half-year sentence.
The reality star was arrested in March 2021 for her involvement in a nationwide telemarketing fraud scheme that preyed on elderly individuals. After initially denying the allegations, Shah pleaded guilty in July 2022 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
During her guilty plea, Shah admitted, “In 2012 to March 2021 in the Southern District of New York and elsewhere I agreed with others to commit wire fraud. I knew this was wrong. I knew many people were harmed and I’m so sorry.”
Her sentence saw multiple reductions due to good behavior, participation in prison programs, and the initial payments made toward the $6.5 million in restitution ordered for her victims, according to prison officials.
Now out 45 months ahead of schedule, Shah is expected to either return home or be transferred to a halfway house to complete the remainder of her sentence under supervision.
However, a return to the Bravo spotlight is not in the cards for the “RHOSLC” alum, who was in the midst of filming season two when she was arrested. Bravo executive producer Andy Cohen made it clear in September that Shah would not be welcomed back.
During a Q&A for his talk show, “Watch What Happens Live,” Cohen, 57, told the audience, “Jen Shah, I never want to see again.” Shah’s last appearance on the show was during season three in 2023. “RHOSLC” is currently airing its sixth season and recently concluded filming its highly anticipated reunion.
While a return to the popular spinoff is off the table, Shah’s representatives previously indicated that she is looking forward to reuniting with her husband and two sons after her time at the Texas facility, which has also housed high-profile inmates such as Elizabeth Holmes and Ghislaine Maxwell.
“Everyone’s very grateful for the [Bureau of Prison’s] decision, especially because it means Jen will be able to reunite with her family for the holidays,” Shah’s manager, Chris Giovanni, told People last month. “It’s a gift she doesn’t take for granted.”