Andy Cohen, the face behind Bravo's Watch What Happens Live!, is firmly standing by the new cast of The Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY), regardless of the criticism directed by former housewife Bethenny Frankel. While attending Bravo Fan Fest, Cohen expressed his high hopes for the fresh ensemble of women, emphasizing their collective stories and the allure they bring to the show.
"I really believe in this group of women. I think they’re fun to watch. I think the clothes and the window to a different kind of New York is all what we wanted it to be," Cohen stated, reinforcing his commitment to the new cast comprised of Brynn Whitfield, Erin Lichy, Jenna Lyons, Jessel Taank, Ubah Hassan, Sai De Silva, and Racquel Chevremont. His remarks came as Frankel launched criticism of the reboot, labeling it as lacking substance due to its lower viewership.
Cohen acknowledged the challenges presented by the current group dynamic. "I think the group dynamic is a little bit of a challenge this season," he noted. The original iteration of RHONY had seen formidable friendships evolve over multiple seasons, setting the bar high for any new cast. Despite this, he highlighted the reality of the new cast members spending significant time together and fostering tighter bonds, which were absent during their first season.
Frankel's response ignited conversations around the reboot's viability. She expressed her sentiments through social media, declaring, "You got like 200,000 viewers watching this piece of trash. So, go get the old girls and dust them off and mix them in. Humble pie is coming in hot." Frankel's jab is particularly significant as it reflects the nostalgia fans have for the original cast, which included powerful personalities such as Jill Zarin and Luann de Lesseps. Following the tumultuous 13th season, Cohen revealed plans for the new series of RHONY alongside the proposed spinoff, RHONY Legacy. Although the latter project stalled during contract negotiations earlier this year, Cohen reminisced about the impressive accomplishments of the original cast, indicating, "We had 13 great seasons, plus a Girls Trip with this group of women, which is an incredible accomplishment."
Shifting gears, Cohen also found himself part of the entertainment during CNN's New Year's Eve coverage. Alongside Anderson Cooper, he welcomed comedian Roy Wood Jr., who used this platform to inject humor concerning another television figure—former CNN host Don Lemon. When offered tequila, Wood politely declined with irony, quipping, "No I don’t. The last black man to drink on this network got fired." This line drew attention to Lemon's unexpected firing, which left many, including Lemon himself, feeling blindsided, echoing past controversies where Lemon’s spirited appearances sometimes led to chaos, such as when he drunkenly pierced his ear live on air.
Cooper, visibly caught off guard by Wood’s jab, changed the subject as the crew awkwardly navigated the moment. Wood’s humor reflected much of the gossip surrounding Lemon's departure, including his furious response to the way he learned of his termination: "I was informed this morning by my agent... I am stunned after 17 years at CNN I would have thought someone... would have the decency to tell me directly."
Beyond the laughter, Cohen carried the spotlight back to serious matters like the recent DUI case facing Karen Huger, another familiar face from the franchise. Following her guilty verdict on several charges stemming from her March arrest, Cohen expressed his dismay, stating, "I think it's all sad." He commented on the situation during SiriusXM's 10th Annual Radio Andy Holiday Hangout, showcasing his typical blend of support and concern as he echoed the sentiments many had following the court's decision.
Huger, who crashed her vehicle following the collision and was charged with reckless driving and DUI, is now scheduled for sentencing. Her representative conveyed disappointment at the jury’s verdict but noted plans for appeal, reflecting how reality television can often encompass serious personal struggles beyond the glitz and glam.
With much going on in the world of reality TV, Cohen remains at the helm of notable conversations, balancing humor and heart as he guides the audience through the rollercoaster of fame, friendships, and personal trials. Whether addressing the new challenges faced by RHONY or making light of cultural commentary on air, Cohen continues to shape the reality television narrative with his distinct voice and vision.