Liz McGraw is shutting down speculation about why she walked away from The Real Housewives of Rhode Island after just one season.

Hours after announcing that she would not be returning for Season 2, Liz took to Instagram Stories to address rumors surrounding her exit — including speculation that her decision had something to do with legal drama involving her close friend Dino Guilmette.

“It’s fascinating to me how everyone assumes my reason for leaving involves being afraid of ‘skeletons’ …’jail,’ etc.,” Liz wrote on Wednesday, July 1.

Liz’s comments come as fans continue to speculate about her departure due to Dino’s ongoing legal battle. Dino, who appeared on RHORI and was mentioned by Liz and her husband Gerry McGraw multiple times, was arrested in March 2022 and charged with drug trafficking, conspiracy and financial fraud.

Dino has been accused of supplying and conspiring to supply Lorazepam, a prescription sedative, to a friend’s girlfriend, as well as allegedly defrauding a pandemic-era state program out of $7,000 in rent-relief money.

In a 2021 search warrant affidavit, Rhode Island State Police Detective Matthew Lynch alleged that Dino ran a cocaine operation in allegiance with the Patriarca crime family in New England, according to multiple reports. Dino has not been formally indicted for Mafia-related racketeering, and his attorney has denied alleged ties to the Mafia.

Dino, who could face up to 88 years behind bars if convicted, reportedly rejected a plea deal last month that would have allowed him to avoid jail time. His attorney has said Dino maintains his innocence. The case is expected to return to court on July 17.

Liz and Gerry were named as Dino’s associates in the 2021 affidavit, but they have not been accused of criminal activity.

Still, RHORI viewers have speculated online that Liz may have left the show ahead of Dino’s trial. Liz, however, is making it clear that she finds that theory ridiculous.

“This is not new gossip … it has been the local slander for YEARS,” Liz continued, seemingly referring to rumors that Dino’s case could uncover alleged wrongdoing involving her. “If there were even an ounce of validity to it, I’d not have ever gone on a show!”

Liz strongly denied being tied to any criminal case.

“I realize that for some, it feels good to speculate, hate and defame my character, but I have never been investigated, nor involved in ANY criminal case. It’s preposterous and people should know how utterly ridiculous it sounds.”

Liz then warned that she may take action against those spreading what she describes as false claims.

“Sorry to disappoint. It’s wild to me how people feel at liberty to openly state such absurd claims as facts. Now that I have time on my hands, I will start the process of holding those originating and spreading such fiction accountable.”

Liz first announced her RHORI exit on Instagram, saying she was grateful for the opportunity but ready to focus on her life away from the cameras.

“I’m full of gratitude for the amazing opportunity to appear on this show,” she wrote. “As filming for Season 2 begins, I have made the decision to take a step back and focus on my family, my work and my passions.”

She continued, “The RHORI cast is an amazing group of women who have created something special. I’ll be watching next season, rooting for the continued success of this franchise. For now, I look forward to enjoying this little corner of the world from the other side of the camera.”

Liz’s departure came as a surprise to fans, especially because she was one of the most talked-about cast members during RHORI’s first season. Her friendships and feuds with Alicia Carmody, Jo-Ellen Tiberi and the rest of the cast helped drive much of the season’s drama.

Andy Cohen even reacted to her exit by commenting, “The door is always open. Just sayin’!”