Karen Huger Discusses Jail Time and Addiction Struggles

The 'Real Housewives of Potomac' star opens up about her six-month jail sentence and past as a 'functional addict'.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a candid interview on the Sherri show, Karen Huger discussed the harsh realities of her six-month jail sentence, which she says was not a 'cushy' experience in a federal facility. Huger also admitted to being a 'functional addict' during her time on The Real Housewives of Potomac, carefully balancing substances to stay professional on set. She credits her wake-up call to seeing her children through a partition while incarcerated, which inspired her to teach Narcotics Anonymous classes to other inmates.

Why it matters

Huger's openness about her struggles with addiction and legal troubles provides a rare glimpse into the personal challenges faced by reality TV stars, highlighting the importance of seeking help and accountability. Her story also underscores the harsh realities of the criminal justice system, especially for high-profile individuals.

The details

Karen Huger described her six-month jail sentence as a 'hardcore' experience, saying she was not in a 'cushy white-collar situation' but rather faced a 'metal bed facing a cold cement wall.' She made it clear that she takes full responsibility for her March 2024 DUI, stating 'No one should drink and drive' and expressing gratitude that no one was hurt. Huger also candidly admitted to being a 'functional addict' during her time on The Real Housewives of Potomac, carefully balancing substances to maintain a professional demeanor on set. She credits seeing her children through a partition while incarcerated as the wake-up call that inspired her to teach Narcotics Anonymous classes to other inmates, using her lived experience to help others.

  • In March 2024, Huger was arrested for a DUI.
  • Huger served a six-month jail sentence starting in 2025.

The players

Karen Huger

A reality star on The Real Housewives of Potomac who recently served a six-month jail sentence and has been open about her past struggles with addiction.

Sherri Shepherd

The host of the Sherri show, where Huger appeared to discuss her jail time and addiction.

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What they’re saying

“I was not in federal. I was not, you know, and so I didn't have the cushy white-collar situation. I had hardcore. I was on a metal bed facing a cold cement wall for six months.”

— Karen Huger (Sherri)

“No one should drink and drive. I was wrong. Absolutely dead wrong. I'm so grateful no one was killed. No other person was hurt. I'm so grateful to be alive. I could have died.”

— Karen Huger (Sherri)

“You could say I was a functional addict at that time. I knew when to have the pills with the alcohol and my cocktail. It was never in front of the cameras. You're not going to catch me melting down.”

— Karen Huger (Sherri)

What’s next

Huger's future on The Real Housewives of Potomac remains uncertain, as she noted 'Whether I return or not... that's to be seen.' However, she is focused on her personal growth and maintaining her sobriety.

The takeaway

Huger's candid discussion of her legal troubles and addiction struggles serves as a powerful reminder of the personal challenges faced by reality TV stars, and the importance of seeking help and accountability. Her story highlights the harsh realities of the criminal justice system, as well as the potential for personal transformation and redemption.