Model and reality star Ampika Pickston, who shot to fame on the ITVBe reality show from 2015 to 2017, is making an epic comeback after six years away.
5
5
5
Ampika, 42, was one of the original stars on the show when it first aired, alongside current co-stars Tanya Bardsley and Lauren Simon.
But in true RHOC style, nothing is ever smooth sailing as Ampika’s return is set to ruffle some feathers, including Atomic Kitten singer Natasha Hamilton, who joined the show on the last series.
The atmosphere between Ampika and mum-of-five Natasha, 41, is said to be frosty, as Ampika is best mates with Natasha’s former bandmate Kerry Katona, 42, who Natasha famously fell out with.
It has also been spotted that Ampika has followed all the other cast members, but not Natasha.
A source exclusively told The Sun: “Ampika is making a triumphant return to the show in the upcoming series.
“She’s one of the original cast so die-hard fans will be thrilled to see her back in the mix, and she’s certain to cause lots of drama during filming, which producers are rubbing their hands together over.
“She and Natasha Hamilton, who has joined this series, are not friends because Ampika is best mates with Tash’s old Atomic Kitten bandmate Kerry Katona, who Tash famously fell out with.”
They added: “There is no love lost there, as Ampika made clear when she followed the other stars on Instagram but hasn’t followed Natasha.”
Despite leaving the show six years ago, Ampika has still remained in the spotlight.
In 2021, The Sun exclusively revealed how she and West Ham co-owner David Sullivan had split after 25 years.
Back in 2017, Ampika had threatened to quit along with co-stars Tanya Bardsley and Leanne Brown after being labelled a “lap dancer” and a “slag” and a “prostitute” by one co-star in the furious row.
Shortly after she confirmed that she would not be returning for season six.
She tweeted: “The crown became too small and throne wasn’t high enough thank you for all your support you will be seeing more of me next trust me #secret.”
As well as enjoying a successful television career, Ampika is the owner of her own salon.
Meanwhile, Natasha will have a lot on her plate after welcoming her fifth child this week.
The Whole Again songstress gave birth to little girl Kitty – her first tot with husband Charles Gay.
5
5