House of Villains returns for Season 3 this Thursday on Peacock, bringing together reality TV stars from shows like Selling Sunset, Survivor, Mob Wives, Below Deck, and more. While the contestants are competing for a $200,000 prize, many revealed that the show gave them a chance to showcase their lighter, more vulnerable sides.
A Light-Hearted Competition
Survivor winner Tyson Apostol explained that the challenges in House of Villains are far less stressful than those on Survivor. Instead of secretive eliminations, contestants face quirky competitions such as cake-eating contests and equipment smashing, all while host Joel McHale adds comedic commentary. “It’s a little more light-hearted,” Apostol said, noting that the atmosphere was more fun than cutthroat.
Building Connections
Selling Sunset star Christine Quinn admitted she was initially intimidated by Basketball Wives’ Jackie Christie but soon discovered her softer side. “I told Drita, ‘I’m so scared of Jackie,’ but then I got to know her and I was like, ‘Oh my God, she’s a sweetheart. She’s so loyal. She’s wonderful,’” Quinn shared.
Mob Wives alum Drita D’Avanzo embraced a nurturing role in the house, preparing meals for her castmates. “I was literally like mama bear,” she said, contrasting the Villains house with her past experiences surrounded by women linked to convicted men.
Skills Beyond Villainy
Vanderpump Rules star Tom Sandoval used his mixology talents to bond with fellow contestants, making cocktails for the group. Meanwhile, The Challenge champion Ashley Mitchell appreciated the luxury of the Villains house compared to the grueling outdoor battles of her previous show. “I get treated like a human,” Mitchell joked, though she admitted she’d still eat worms if money was on the line.
Love Island’s Johnny Middlebrooks noted that House of Villains allowed him to show more of his personality than his previous reality TV appearances. Drag Race contestant Plane Jane stayed true to her chaotic style, preparing drag looks daily in her famously messy room.
Wild Challenges Ahead
Big Brother star Paul Abrahamian teased that the challenges only get more outrageous as the season progresses. Kate Chastain of Below Deck agreed, saying each competition becomes “progressively wackier and harder.” Mitchell added that some upcoming challenges push boundaries, questioning whether they’re even PG-13.
A Different Kind of Villain
While the show thrives on drama and competition, Season 3 highlights the human side of its cast. Contestants who built reputations as “villains” in their respective series are now revealing humor, vulnerability, and camaraderie in unexpected ways.
