‘The Valley’ Star Michelle Saniei Honors Her Mother

Fans of Bravo’s “The Valley” have watched as Michelle Saniei’s life has been turned upside down over the last two seasons. A complex relationship with her ex, Jesse Lally, has been well-documented on the reality series. So it’s no surprise that navigating their divorce and custody battle has been a challenge.

Adding to the pre-existing upheaval, Michelle recently went through a breakup with Aaron Nosler. She has since moved herself and her daughter from his home. The reality star recently took to Instagram to share where her thoughts really lie, with her mother, who passed in November 2024.

Michelle Saniei Is Missing Her Mom

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Saniei’s mother lost her battle with stage 4 colon cancer, and she recently paid tribute to the woman who meant the world to her. On Aug. 4, 2025, Michelle posted to Instagram a photo of her lying on her back, covering her face in a cemetery near a grave marker. A second photo of a red sunset followed.

Saniei captioned the post, “It feels like yesterday and a lifetime ago. I miss you, Mom.”

Michelle’s Mom was Her Biggest Cheerleader in Life

Michelle recently spoke with Bravo’s Daily Dish about the close bond that she had shared with her mother.

“Just a very present mom, and we spent so much time together from when I was a toddler to an adult. I spoke to her every day on the phone,” Michelle said. “She was very encouraging about everything I ever did in life. She was like, ‘Take risks, do this, move to LA,’ — whatever dreams I had that may have sounded crazy, she was like, ‘Go for it.’ and very much my cheerleader and motivator.”

On Season 2 of “The Valley,” in Episode 9, Michelle spoke to Lala Kent about her mother’s diagnosis. She explained, “She thought she had food poisoning and had to go to the doctor, and was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer.” Her mom’s first round of chemotherapy had failed, and they were hopeful that a second round would help. Instead, her cancer spread.,

Other Bravo stars like Janet Caperna and Ally Lewber quickly took to the comments section to send their love. Shannon Beador of “Real Housewives of Orange County,” posted, “I am so sorry, Michelle!!! Sending you the biggest hugs from me and the girls!!!”

It’s good to see Michelle’s friends lending their support when it counts, and away from the cameras!