Jen Shah Chris Haston/Bravo
Jen Shah has taken a proactive approach during her time in prison by successfully finishing anger management classes. According to a statement shared by her representative on Tuesday, June 27, the 49-year-old Real Housewives of Salt Lake City alum expressed that through various activities such as journaling, completing homework, listening to audio lessons, and participating in two-hour weekly group sessions, she gained a deeper understanding of anger, its origins, and learned healthier and constructive ways to respond and react.
Shah expressed her sense of well-being as she persists in her personal growth journey. She shared her insights on achieving different results from the same triggering events by applying the tools and techniques she learned throughout the weeks. The ex-Bravo celebrity highlighted her dedication to challenging detrimental beliefs during her coursework.
Reflecting on it now, I realize that I could have utilized this approach during my time on RHOSLC. Even though the course has concluded, I will keep my RSA worksheet with me just in case I encounter any conflicts here. Ultimately, I cannot dictate the actions of others, but I can control my own choices in how I respond and react, using the tools I acquired in class... #ZenJen.
This Utah native gained prominence after her appearance in the popular series from 2020 to 2022. While filming for the second season, Shah made headlines following her arrest on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
Shah initially pleaded not guilty but later admitted to knowing the illegality of her involvement. As a result, the U.S. Attorney's office dropped the charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prior to her sentencing, Bravo executive producer Andy Cohen expressed uncertainty about Shah's potential return to the network in light of her legal troubles.
In November 2022, Andy Cohen, 55, expressed his uncertainty about what to say to individuals who expressed a desire to have her on the show, given that she was currently facing sentencing. He hoped that she would not receive any jail time and could return to the show, but he had a feeling that she might not be available. Cohen pointed out feedback from Twitter users who expressed their interest in having Jen on the show for the next season, but he humorously redirected them to the judge for further discussion.
Two months later, in January, Shah was sentenced to 78 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Since then, she has been dedicated to her personal growth and has not maintained contact with her former RHOSLC costars.
According to Shah's assistant and close friend, Murilo Bueno, only Meredith Marks has reached out to inquire about her well-being. Bueno shared in May, "As far as I know, no one is contacting Jen. The only person that has reached out to me, asking how she was doing, was Meredith. Other than that, no one has reached out to me, and I'm pretty sure no one has with her as well."
Bueno went on to say that Shah has received support from her family after surrendering herself to FPC Bryan.
Visitation for her has been extended to every weekend and we are making an effort to be there as often as possible. We have created a spreadsheet for everyone to sign up and coordinate who will be visiting on which weekends. The COVID policy has been revised, allowing for more visitations throughout the month. Previously, it was only once a month on the second Saturday, making it more difficult for everyone. Now, we have the opportunity to see her on both Saturday and Sunday, as well as holidays. This means we can spend more valuable time with her, which is truly wonderful.
It is uncertain if Shah will make a comeback to reality TV once her sentence concludes, as per Bueno. He believes that she desires a new beginning and the opportunity to make a positive impact by sharing the stories of women she encountered in prison. In fact, Bueno has always likened Shah to Kim Kardashian, and he is eager to support their friendship if they team up to fight for justice and help free incarcerated individuals.