Here’s Why Shannon Beador Settled Ex John’s “Shameful” Lawsuit

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Credit: Photo by Rich Polk/Bravo

Following the news that Shannon Beador had settled John Janssen‘s $75,000 lawsuit against her, the Real Housewives of Orange County star’s attorney is explaining why.

Days after a “Notice of Settlement of Entire Case” was filed to dismiss the case, Shannon’s representation revealed that while he was confident that his client would have come out victorious if the case had gone to trial, Shannon, 60, did what she felt was best for herself both emotionally and financially.

“Shannon made an incredibly smart emotional and financial decision in deciding to settle this case,” attorney Dave Beitchman told Page Six on November 19, adding that the “premise” of John’s lawsuit was “shameful.”

In March of this year, months after the start of his relationship with his now-fiancee, Alexis Bellino, 47, whose ex-husband, Jim Bellino, 62, previously sued Shannon for defamation, John, 62, accused Shannon of committing promissory fraud by not paying him back the $75,000 he claimed to have loaned her for a facelift.

However, while John said he sent Shannon a $40,000 wire transfer in January 2022 and wrote her a check for the rest in May 2023, she insisted that the money he gave her was a gift.

Months later, the attorney, who also represented Shannon in Jim’s case against her, which she won, congratulated his client on her moral victory. 

“I have no doubt in my mind that Shannon would prevail in this matter, but the cost of defending the case would easily be more than the amount that was sought,” the attorney explained. “While she was certainly prepared to fight for the truth, I congratulate her in taking the high road and putting this matter behind her.”

In addition to the $75,000, John sued Shannon for other costs, including his attorneys’ fees.

Back in March, after the filing of John’s case against her, Shannon spoke to PEOPLE, admitting she was “shocked and disappointed” in her former partner.

“My attorney has been in constant communication with his counsel,” Shannon revealed at the time. “I agreed to pay John what he wanted because I knew that attorneys fees would surpass the amount sought, but more importantly to eliminate the negative emotional components that come with a lawsuit. It is important that I continue to focus on the positive aspects of my life and move forward.”

“John declined the offer because he refused to sign a mutual non-disparagement agreement,” she added. “I was hoping that if I met his baseless demand we could at least use this as an opportunity to bring complete closure to this chapter in my life.”

The Real Housewives of Orange County season 18 reunion concludes Thursday at 9/8c on Bravo.