It's difficult to know what exactly will happen to the popular Bravo reality show after NeNe Leakes' "Real Housewives of Atlanta" departure, as she has been playing a pivotal role in the series since its inception and its arguably the network's biggest star - but she says it's time for her to "spread [her] wings"!

The announcement that NeNe Leakes' "Real Housewives of Atlanta" departure was happening has shocked the nation, after she was on the show for nearly eight years, as she confirmed she won't be a part of the eighth season, leaving many to wonder what exactly is in store for the show.

The NeNe Leakes "Real Housewives of Atlanta" departure announcement came last Monday through People Magazine, as the 47 year-old reality star and fashion designer told the publication that, while it was a hard decision for her, she and her husband thought it was finally time to step down.

USA Today reports that following NeNe Leakes' "Real Housewives of Atlanta" departure, the reality star and entrepreneur has said she feels like "a weight has been lifted off [her] shoulders," and "won't miss the negativity" of the reality show after having been a part of the third installment of the "Real Housewives" franchise for nearly a decade, as she states she's ready to go for new projects.

As for what's next for NeNe Leakes after "Real Housewives of Atlanta," Deadline reports that one of her upcoming projects will begin shooting this week, a series featuring "a big legend," though that's the only information she was able to provide - it's still unknown what the series would entail, which legend or in what channel, though she insists it will be on primetime television.

In the past, Leakes had been reportedly considered to fill in for Joan Rivers in "Fashion Police" following the comedienne's death, while other names such as Kardashian sister Khloe were also mentioned.

Now that NeNe Leakes' "Real Housewives of Atlanta" contract has expired, will it maintain its ratings?