Series Overview
Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of New York City” has been a staple in the reality TV landscape since its debut in 2008, offering viewers an intimate and often dramatic glimpse into a group of affluent women navigating the sophisticated social scene of the city that never sleeps.
Journey Through Opulence and Drama
“The Real Housewives of New York City” is a captivating blend of opulence and drama. From charity galas to Hamptons retreats, the series showcases the extravagant events and exclusive gatherings that define Manhattan’s elite social scene. Simultaneously, it navigates the complex relationships and interpersonal dynamics among the cast members, creating a narrative that resonates with viewers.
Authenticity Amidst Glamour
Beyond the glitz and glamour, “The Real Housewives of New York City” is praised for its authenticity. The cast members share their vulnerabilities, triumphs, and struggles, creating a relatable narrative that transcends the luxury lifestyle often associated with Manhattan’s elite. Viewers witness the women grapple with issues ranging from relationships and career challenges to personal growth, providing a multifaceted view of their lives.
Cultural Impact and Enduring Legacy
The series has left an indelible mark on popular culture, spawning memes, catchphrases, and a fervent fan base. Its enduring legacy lies in its ability to evolve with the times while staying true to its essence—a captivating exploration of the lives of influential women in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
“The Real Housewives of New York City” continues to be a Bravo powerhouse, captivating audiences with its blend of glamour, drama, and authentic storytelling. As the cast members navigate the concrete jungle of Manhattan, the series remains a cultural touchstone, offering a front-row seat to the high-society antics and genuine moments that define the lives of these modern New York City housewives.
List of Real Housewives of New York City Cast Members
Throughout its numerous seasons, the show has featured a rotating cast of dynamic and accomplished women, each bringing her own flair to the series. From seasoned business professionals to socialites and fashionistas, the cast members create a rich tapestry of personalities, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of New York City’s elite. The following is a list of the primary cast members for the Real Housewives of New York City (across all seasons).
- Alex McCord
- Aviva Drescher
- Bethenny Frankel
- Carole Radziwill
- Cindy Barshop
- Dorinda Medley
- Heather Thomson
- Jill Zarin
- Jules Wainstein
- Kelly Killoren Bensimon
- Kristen Taekman
- Luann de Lesseps – The Countess and Cabaret Star – Another standout cast member, Luann de Lesseps, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the series. As a former Countess and accomplished cabaret performer, de Lesseps brings a unique perspective to the show. Her journey, marked by personal ups and downs, resonates with viewers, offering a glimpse into the highs and lows of life in the public eye.
- Ramona Singer – The OG and Social Maven – Ramona Singer, one of the original cast members, has become an iconic figure on the show. Known for her unfiltered commentary and relentless pursuit of social connections, Singer embodies the quintessential New York socialite. Her journey, marked by business ventures and personal triumphs, has made her a focal point in the series’ evolving narrative.
- Sonja Morgan
- Tinsley Mortimer
List of Episodes
Following is a list of episodes for each season.
Season 1
The first season had just seven episodes and a reunion show.
- E1 – Meet the Wives – In the first episode of the first season, we meet the Real Housewives of New York City. First, Ramona gets ready to spend the summer in the Hamptons. Then, Jill’s daughter wants to go to a detox center. Later, LuAnn and her family move into their summer home.
- E2 – The Hamptons – Jill and her daughter go to the high-end detox center. Meanwhile, Ramona gets ready for a fashion show. Bethenny meets with a fashion designer in the city to prepare for her hubby’s charity event. Ramona throws a party at the beach but neglects to invite Jill (prepare for years of these types of antics).
- E3 – Fashion Week – First, Jill takes Allyson shopping. Next, Ramona sees Jill at a Fashion Week show. Meanwhile, Alex and Simon get their son ready for pre-k. Later, Bethenny and Brad go shopping.
- E4 – Social Wife –
- E5 – Careful, She Bites –
- E6 – Girl’s Night Out –
- E7 – Second Chances –
- Reunion: Watch What Happens –
- The Lost Footage –
Season 2
- There’s a New Girl in Town
- Hampton’s Retreat…But No Surrender
- On Their High Horses
- If You Have Nothing Nice to Say…
- New York State of Mind
- Runway Run-in
- Kelly vs. Bethenny
- Game, Set, Feud
- Wife in the Fast Lane
- Unfashionably Late
- Van Kempen’s House Party
- Charity Wives
- Watch What Happens Reunion (1)
- Watch What Happens Reunion (2)
Season 3
- New Alliances
- Dueling Labor Day Parties
- Fall in Manhattan
- Fashion and Fighting
- Hot Off the Press
- The Ambush
- New Girl, Old Money
- Let’s See That Ring
- Stay on Message
- Leap Before You Look
- Housewives Overboard
- Sun, Sand, and Psychosis
- Shunburn
- Rebuked, Reunited, Renewed
- Reunion 1, 2, 3
Season 4
- Grin and Bear It
- March Madness
- Hairy Mess
- Ramona’d
- Following Pecking Orders
- The Mask Has Two Faces
- Travel Reservations
- Misfortune Teller
- A Riad Divided
- Last Call, Morocco!
- Debt Becomes Her
- Sixteen and Skip the Sweet
- Your Tweeting Heart
- Burlesque is More
- Video Killed the Countess
- L.O.V.E. Duel
- Reunion Part 1
- Reunion Part 2
Season 5
- A New New York
- Say What You Mean, Just Don’t Say It Mean
- Boozy Brunch
- Diss-Invite
- The Cool Girls
- I’m U.K., You’re U.K.
- Good Trip, Bad Fall
- Blinded by the Wine
- Dirty Ol’ Dad
- You Want to What Me in the Where?
- This Party Is Toast
- All How You Spin It
- Pirate Booty Call
- Slutty Island
- Vacation, All I Never Wanted
- What Happens in St. Barths Doesn’t Stay in St. Barths
- Don’t Make Room for Daddy
- All’s Well That Doesn’t End Well
- Reunion Part 1
- Reunion Part 2
Season 6
- If You Can Make It Here
- Give Up the Ghostwriter
- Model Behavior
- Holla in the Hamptons
- Everybody Thinks We’re Drag Queens
- Unhappy Anniversary
- Fireworks
- Unforgivable Debt
- The Last Splash
- Bon Voyage Ramona
- The Ramona Trap
- Requiem for a Poodle
- Win, Place or Sonja
- Sex, Lies, and Facials
- Ten Gallon Spats
- Go Yell It on the Mountain
- Bury the Hatchet
- Something to Sing About
- There’s Something About Harry
- The Last Leg
- Reunion Part 1
- Reunion Part 2
- Reunion Part 3
Season 7
- The B is Back
- New House, Old Grudges
- Battle of the Brunches
- The Art of Being a Cougar
- Mind Your Own Business
- Double Down on Delusion
- Family Matters
- The Cavi-Art of War
- Birthday in the Berks
- Pop Up Crazy
- Fashionably Fired Up
- Lord of the Manor
- Sonja Island
- Conch Blocked
- Don’t Be All, Like, Uncool
- Awfully Charitable
- London Callin
- Rumble on the Runway
- New Beginnings, My Ass
- Reunion Part 1
- Reunion Part 2
- Reunion Part 3
Season 8
- Start Spreading the News
- An Intimates Affair
- The Biggest Boob
- BBQ, Brunch or Bust
- Birthday Bashing (61 min)
- Tipsying Point
- Airing Your Dirty Laundry
- All the Countess’s Men
- December: Berkshires County
- Unhappy Holidays
- Invitation Interrupted
- Always the Bitch, Never the Bride
- Steel Calzones
- The Benefits of Friendship
- All Bets Are Off
- The Countess Bride
- And Away We Finally Go
- Body of Evidence
- Tomfoolery
- Say It Ain’t So
- Reunion Part One
- Reunion Part Two
- Reunion Part Three
Season 9
- Talk of the Town
- It Girl, Interrupted
- A New Low
- The Etiquette of Friendship
- The Politics of Friendship
- Wishful Invitation
- Bidding on Love
- Return of the Berzerkshires
- Two Weeks Notice
- Black Out and Get Out
- A Countess No More
- Regency Reunion
- A Bronx Tale
- A Slippery Slope
- Oil and Vinegar
- Three Tequila … Floor!
- Tequila-thon
- Make Out, Makeup Up
- Thank You and Good Night
- Reunion Part 1
- Reunion Part 2
- Reunion Part 3
Season 10
- Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun
- Running Your Mouth
- Til Brunch Do Us Part
- War and P.O.S.
- Tea for Tat
- Grief And Relief
- On an Island
- A Frittered Friendship
- Episode 9
- Episode 10
Executive Producers
The show’s executive producers are Megan Estrada, Pam Healey, and Lisa Shannon.
Studio Information
The production company is Ricochet, and the distributor is NBCUniversal Television Distribution.
Filming Location
The show is filmed primarily on location in New York City and surrounding areas.
Critical Response and Awards
Facts and Trivia
Following is a list of little-known facts and trivia about the show and its cast members.
- The original title of the show was “Manhattan Moms.”
- The show had a FaceBook game titled “Real Housewives: The Game,” but it was discontinued in 2012
Questions & Comments
Please post a message below if you have any questions, comments, or feedback about the series. Also, check out the other Real Housewives series on Bravo.
