Reality star NeNe Leakes, known for her role in the popular reality series Real Housewives of Atlanta, will not be returning for season 16 of the show as confirmed by TMZ. NeNe, 56, has faced financial setbacks since departing from the series in 2020. State documents reveal that a lien of $17,785.22 has been placed against her in Georgia for unpaid taxes, a sum that has now exceeded $28,000 with interest and fees. Additionally, NeNe owes $25,000 to her former landlord due to rent arrears at her Swagg Boutique.

Furthermore, NeNe's son, Bryson Bryant, is currently being sued for $30,000 in unpaid child support by his ex-partner Symone Davis, who claims he has not fulfilled his monthly obligations of $708 for the care of their son, Blaze. Bryson spent three months in jail last year after being arrested for possessing fentanyl, and Davis is seeking legal action to ensure he fulfills his court-required responsibilities.

Despite fan campaigns urging NeNe's return to the show and her hopes of exploring acting opportunities, talks between NeNe and the Real Housewives of Atlanta producers have not taken place. NeNe has been generating income through paid partnerships as an influencer and maintains optimism about potential acting roles in the future, expressing gratitude for her physical well-being while acknowledging emotional struggles that she hopes will improve.