Noella Bergener Husband: The Truth About the Reality Star’s Marriage and Divorce
Noella Bergener became a household name as one of the boldest and most talked-about cast members on The Real Housewives of Orange County. Known for her outspoken personality, striking beauty, and dramatic flair, she brought a unique energy to the long-running Bravo series. Yet, while her time on the show gave fans a glimpse into her luxurious lifestyle and candid personality, it also exposed one of the most painful chapters of her life—her marriage breakdown. The question many fans continue to ask is: Who is Noella Bergener’s husband, and what really happened between them?
Noella’s marriage to personal injury attorney James Bergener was a central storyline during her stint on RHOC. Their once-glamorous union unraveled publicly, sparking headlines, speculation, and emotional moments that played out both on-screen and off.
In this article, we’ll explore Noella Bergener’s relationship with her ex-husband, how their marriage began and ended, and how she has rebuilt her life since the divorce.
Who Is Noella Bergener?
Before diving into her marriage, it’s worth understanding who Noella Bergener is and how she rose to fame.
Noella first gained public attention as a model and socialite in Southern California. With her striking looks, statuesque figure, and sophisticated style, she quickly became a familiar face in the Orange County social scene. Her modeling career included collaborations with luxury brands and appearances in fashion and lifestyle publications.
However, her true claim to fame came when she joined The Real Housewives of Orange County in Season 16, which aired in late 2021. Noella was the first Black cast member in the show’s history, bringing a new level of diversity and candor to the series. Her authenticity and vulnerability—especially during her difficult divorce—resonated with many viewers.
While her time on RHOC was relatively brief, it made a lasting impression. Her storyline centered on her personal growth, her challenges as a mother, and her efforts to navigate heartbreak in the public eye.
Who Is Noella Bergener’s Husband?
Noella Bergener’s husband—or rather, ex-husband—is James Bergener, a successful personal injury lawyer based in California. Known professionally as “Sweet James,” he founded the law firm Sweet James Accident Attorneys, which became well-known through radio, television, and billboard advertisements across the West Coast.
James built his reputation as a high-profile attorney representing clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases. His polished image and success earned him the nickname “Super Lawyer,” and he cultivated a public persona that mirrored the luxury and confidence often associated with Orange County’s elite.
Before their relationship ended, Noella and James seemed like the perfect power couple—both accomplished, glamorous, and deeply in love. But behind the scenes, their marriage was far from picture-perfect.
The Beginning of Their Relationship
Noella and James Bergener reportedly met through mutual friends in Orange County. Their connection was instant, and they quickly fell into a whirlwind romance. They shared a love for travel, fine dining, and luxury living—posting affectionate photos and glamorous snapshots of their adventures on social media.
The couple eventually tied the knot in a private ceremony in June 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though details about their wedding were limited, Noella often spoke about how happy and in love they were.
Just months later, the couple welcomed their first child together, James Jr., affectionately called “James Jr.” or “Junior” by fans. Becoming a mother was one of Noella’s proudest moments, and she often gushed about her family life in interviews and on RHOC.
However, behind the façade of luxury and happiness, serious financial and emotional cracks were beginning to show.
Trouble in Paradise: The Legal and Financial Scandals
In 2021, shortly before the premiere of The Real Housewives of Orange County Season 16, shocking news surfaced: James Bergener was facing massive tax debt.
According to reports, he owed over $5.8 million in federal and state tax liens, a revelation that blindsided Noella and the public alike. The IRS and the State of California both filed liens against him, creating legal and financial turmoil that rippled through their family life.
Noella later claimed on the show that she had no idea about her husband’s tax issues until the news broke publicly. She expressed deep betrayal, saying she felt “humiliated and blindsided.”
The situation worsened when, in August 2021, James allegedly filed for divorce in Puerto Rico—without personally informing Noella. She discovered the filing through third parties, which made the separation even more painful.
According to Noella, her husband cut off communication and stopped providing financial support shortly after filing, leaving her struggling to care for their young son. On RHOC, she shared emotional moments where she broke down while discussing the sudden end of her marriage and the legal chaos that followed.
The Divorce Drama on The Real Housewives of Orange County
Noella’s divorce from James Bergener became one of the most talked-about storylines of The Real Housewives of Orange County Season 16.
Throughout the season, she opened up about the emotional toll of the split, the financial challenges it created, and her efforts to rebuild her life as a single mother. Viewers sympathized with her vulnerability, particularly as she navigated the situation in front of cameras while trying to protect her son.
In one memorable scene, Noella shared that James had sent her divorce papers via FedEx, an act she described as “cold and cruel.” She also revealed that she hadn’t seen him in months and was struggling to get answers about their finances and custody arrangements.
While James Bergener chose to remain largely silent publicly, his spokesperson issued statements claiming that he was cooperating legally and that the situation was being exaggerated for television.
The divorce was eventually finalized, but it left lasting emotional scars and marked a major turning point in Noella’s life.
Life After Divorce
Since her split from James, Noella Bergener has focused on healing, motherhood, and personal growth.
She continues to co-parent her son, James Jr., while balancing her professional pursuits. After leaving RHOC, she shifted her attention toward modeling, brand collaborations, and entrepreneurial ventures. She also remains active on social media, where she shares glimpses of her stylish life, travel adventures, and moments of reflection.
In interviews, Noella has said that the experience taught her resilience and self-worth. She’s spoken about how she’s learned to trust her instincts, protect her peace, and prioritize her child above all else.
Despite the pain of her divorce, Noella has emerged stronger—turning her heartbreak into a story of empowerment and survival.
Has Noella Bergener Remarried?
As of 2025, Noella Bergener does not have a husband. She has not remarried since her divorce from James Bergener.
While she has occasionally shared hints about dating again, she’s kept any new relationships private. Her main focus remains on motherhood, business ventures, and building her brand. Fans have praised her for maintaining grace and confidence after such a public and painful breakup.
Noella has also expressed that she’s not in a rush to marry again, saying in one interview that she’s “enjoying her independence” and “waiting for the right person who brings peace, not problems.”
Noella’s Strength and Legacy
Noella Bergener’s story is one of transformation. Her journey from devoted wife and reality star to independent, empowered woman has resonated deeply with fans who have experienced their own heartbreaks.
While her marriage to James Bergener ended in turmoil, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter—one defined by self-discovery, resilience, and strength.
She continues to inspire others by showing that even when life unravels in the public eye, it’s possible to rebuild with dignity and grace.
Final Thoughts
So, when fans ask, “Who is Noella Bergener’s husband?” the answer lies not just in a name but in a story of love, betrayal, and renewal. Her ex-husband, James Bergener, may have been part of her journey, but he doesn’t define her future.
Noella has turned one of her darkest chapters into a powerful narrative of independence and hope. Today, she stands not as someone’s ex-wife, but as a woman who has reclaimed her voice, her confidence, and her life.
Featured image source: Pinterest
