Bravo Launches 'The Real Housewives of Rhode Island'

The Real Housewives franchise expands with a new, highly anticipated entry: The Real Housewives of Rhode Island. Andy Cohen and the cast members are discussing the raunchy and unconventional nature of this latest series.

Cohen on the New Franchise

At the premiere party in New York, Andy Cohen described the show as “very family-focused,” noting the women appear “untouched by the Housewives world around them.” He emphasized their authenticity, stating, “They’re very much themselves. It’s the perfect launch for us in our 20th year.” The event featured a “coastal glam” atmosphere and unique appetizers like “caviar wieners.”

A Cast Unlike Any Other

Cohen expressed confidence in the cast, saying, “We don’t bring out a new group unless we are really sure. And, boy, were we sure when we met these incredible ladies.” The cast – Liz McGraw, Dolores Catania, Ashley Iaconetti, Rosie DiMare, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Andy Cohen, Alicia Carmody, Kelsey Swanson, and Jo-Ellen Tiberi – are known for their candidness and willingness to share intimate details of their lives.

Unfiltered Honesty and Interconnected Lives

Jo-Ellen Tiberi and Kelsey Swanson openly discussed their unconventional relationships. Jo-Ellen laughed when asked about the show’s salacious plot points, stating, “We knew it was coming out either way. We didn’t have a choice.” Kelsey added, “I’d rather tell my story than have somebody else tell it for me.”

The women’s connections run deep, extending beyond the show’s casting. Frances Berwick, Chairman of Bravo and Peacock Unscripted, noted, “There’s potentially more shared history here than any other cast we’ve had in Housewives.” Many of the women have known each other for years, and some have even dated each other’s spouses.

Navigating Established Friendships

Ashley Iaconetti, known from Bachelor Nation, faced initial resistance from the group. Alicia Carmody famously declared, “Welcome to Rhode Island, b---h. This is how we roll.” Alicia explained she wanted Ashley to understand the true nature of their dynamic. Despite initial challenges, Ashley found a strong connection with Rosie DiMare, describing her as “a friend I’ve been looking for for so long.”

A Unique Aesthetic and Refreshing Dynamic

The cast’s striking resemblance has been a topic of conversation, with Dolores Catania and Liz McGraw admitting they share the same plastic surgeon. However, viewers quickly learn to distinguish the women amidst the drama. The series promises a “raucous, raunchy, and refreshing” addition to the Real Housewives universe.

Cohen's Prediction

Andy Cohen concluded the premiere event with high praise, telling the cast, “You’re funny. You’re aspirational. I want to visit Rhode Island. The governor of Rhode Island is gonna be kissing your a--, man.”