Katie Ginella, Star of The Real Housewives of Orange County, Faces $5 Million Lawsuit Over Golf Business
Katie Ginella, the newest addition to The Real Housewives of Orange County, is embroiled in a legal battle over her golf business, Tee Shots. Chad Ruskey, the plaintiff, is suing Ginella, her company, and her business partners for $5 million, alleging breach of implied contract and fraud.
According to the lawsuit, Ruskey claims to have developed the concept of golf-shaped shot glasses, which he calls the “Golf Shot.” He alleges that he shared his idea with Ginella’s business partner, who expressed interest in partnering with him to bring the product to market. However, Ruskey claims that Ginella and her partners conspired behind his back to secure the Tee Shots name, thereby exploiting his idea for their own gain.
The lawsuit alleges that Ginella’s business partners, George and Dolores Salman, agreed to work with Ruskey, but later conspired with Ginella to form a competing company, exploiting Ruskey’s idea without his knowledge or consent. Ruskey is seeking an injunction to prevent Ginella and her partners from continuing to sell their product, as well as damages in the amount of $5 million.
In response to the lawsuit, an attorney representing Ginella and her partners has issued a statement denying any wrongdoing. “Katie Ginella, along with Dolores and George Salman, have not been served with any lawsuit by Chad Ruskey against them at this time,” the statement reads. “Ms. Ginella and the Salmans were previously contacted by Mr. Ruskey’s attorney about claims of being in breach of a partnership to develop a golf-ball shot glass business, and they denied having any business ties or arrangements with Mr. Ruskey.”
The drama surrounding Ginella’s business venture is just the latest in a long line of legal troubles faced by The Real Housewives franchise. From fraud cases to bankruptcy filings, it seems that the reality TV show is never short on controversy.
Being a Real Housewife isn’t all glamour and excitement — just ask the many Bravolebrities who’ve faced legal woes that have played out in the spotlight. While some franchises tackle the lawsuits on air, others have faced fraud cases, bankruptcy filings, and more.
