‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ Nene Leakes Shades Kenya Moore’s Return Amid Salary Cut Rumors

When Kenya Moore returns to “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” Season 12, she won’t receive a warm welcome from Nene Leakes. The 51-year-old star appeared to shade Kenya when a talk show host suggested the former beauty queen, who is rumored to have taken a salary cut, could threaten Leakes’ spot on the cast.

Kenya left the “RHOA” following Season 10 after Bravo refused to meet her salary demands. Although she will appear on the upcoming season of the series, rumors allege she has been causing drama to secure a pay raise in the future.

On Tuesday, Nene appeared on “The Wendy Williams Show” where she initially refused to acknowledge Kenya’s return. When Williams asked Nene to share her thoughts on Kenya’s comeback, the star asked, “Who is that now?”

The host went on to suggest Kenya’s return could mean trouble for Nene. “Kenya’s back and she’s stirring the pot. It seems like she’s coming after a NeNe-sized check to be the NeNe of ‘Atlanta Housewives,’” Williams said.

However, Nene revealed she wasn’t worried about Kenya’s return to the cast. “Good luck with that, I don’t have to fight for anything, honey,” she replied.

In May, RadarOnline claimed Kenya was paid $1.5 million for “Real Housewives of Atlanta” Season 10 but would be receiving $500,000 for Season 12.

Although Nene has become a fan favorite for starting drama, the star has adopted a new outlook on life that may change the way she acts in the new season. On Wednesday, she shared an Instagram post about the challenges of making positive changes in life.

“I have personally grown in many areas of my life, surrounding myself with negative energy is not something that brings me happiness. I knew when the day came for me I wouldn’t be held in a special or high regard… I would be bashed instead of applauded! Sometimes people know you deserve more but too afraid you will become more than them. I’m saying that to say this… walk in your own purpose, live the best life you deserve! When you wake up to the reality that you were created for a life of more, the challenge becomes how to walk in this truth, in spite of the challenges you know you’re going to face.”

Bravo has not announced a premiere date for “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” Season 12.