Exclusive

Real Housewives of Atlanta Star Phaedra Parks Taking Time Off From Filming New Season—Find Out Why!

Fans of the Bravo series can expect to see a little less of one Atlanta housewife.

By Mike Vulpo Jul 29, 2014 1:52 AMTags
Phaedra Parks, Apollo NidaPrince Williams/FilmMagic

Fans of the Real Housewives of Atlanta may see a little less of Phaedra Parks next season. 

A source confirms to E! News that the Bravo reality star is taking off a few weeks from filming Season 7 to focus on her family.

The self-proclaimed "Southern Belle" is coming to terms with her new reality after husband, Apollo Nida, was sentenced to eight years in prison. The sentence comes after he pleaded guilty to identity theft and bank fraud back in May.

Multiple sources also confirm to E! News that the couple's marriage is in serious trouble. 

PHOTOS: We rank the wildest and craziest fights in Real Housewives history

Alex Martinez/Bravo

"Phaedra and Apollo's marriage is on very shaky ground right now," a source tells E! News exclusively. "Phaedra is trying to keep everything contained and protect her kids, which is why she's taking time off from the show. She does not want their ordeal shown on TV."

The sources believe that Nida is not on the same page as his wife.

"He has not been showing her the same respect," a source says. "He's been filming a lot. He's been out and about and trying to be seen as much as possible before he goes to jail. Right now, he's not exactly sure when that will be so he's living it up while he can."

The Real Housewives of Atlanta began filming Season 7 this summer with Parks and returning cast members Porsha Williams, Kenya Moore, Cynthia Bailey, Kandi Burruss and NeNe Leakes.

Last season saw record ratings as the ladies dealt with drama-filled vacations and a memorable reunion brawl. The new season could premiere as early as November.

(E! and Bravo are both part of the NBCUniversal family.)

 - Reporting by Beth Sobel and Michelle Falls