Tuesday, November 30, 2010

NeNe Leakes Puts Divorce Rumors To Rest Despite Recent Episode


Gather.com:
Despite the shock and awe of Sunday night’s latest episode of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” viewers can relax, at least according to NeNe Leakes anyway.


Leakes who has been known to discuss leaving her husband Greg this season, took her talk one step further and visited an attorney’s office while filming. Though viewers never saw the actual papers filed, and reports have gone back and forth, NeNe has since indicated that the entire visit was merely a “scare tactic” and that she and Greg are still together and working out their marriage.


It certainly didn’t look that way on Sunday though, especially following the fall out that Nene and Greg had after discovering that Greg was airing out their dirty laundry publicly. It’s hard to say what is fact and fiction as the housewives from all different seasons have caused an uproar and major drama. One thing we know for sure, is that things for now look rocky between the couple and it looks as though we’ll have to stay tuned to see the outcome.
I'm not surprised. Nene still loves Greg and as much as she may be hard to put up with these days, I believe Greg still loves her too, besides who else would dare try to put up with Nene's inflated ego (or her mouth)?

Jill Zarin Launching Shapewear Line Skweeze


NYDN.com:
Jill Zarin wants to give Spanx a run for their money.


The New York "Real Housewife" is reportedly working her way back into the garment business with her own shapewear line, Women's Wear Daily reports.


The line of slimming leggings and garments will be called Skweeze Couture by Jill Zarin.


"I'm obsessed with looking my best, and I wear Spanx, but there's no competition out there," Zarin told WWD.


The line should hit stores sometime next year.


Zarin is no stranger to the rag trade.


Besides being married to Bobby Zarin of New York's Zarin's Fabrics, she worked as a buyer at Filene's and then in for E.G. Smith, Royce Hosiery and Great American Knitting Mills, according to WWD.


Mega-retailer Bed Bath & Beyond is already selling Zarin's line of bedding and curtains.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Kim Zolciak Engaged to Atlanta Falcons' Kroy Biermann


NYDN.com:
Before heading into the delivery room, mom-to-be Kim Zolciak may be walking down the aisle.


The "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star is engaged to Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann, according to RadarOnline.com.


Zolciak, who recently revealed she is three-months pregnant with the couple's first child, has been dating the NFL star since May after the two met at a celebrity dance competition in Atlanta.


Though Radar claims the reality star wants to tie the knot before giving birth, Zolciak told Life & Style she isn't in any hurry to get hitched.


"I definitely don't want to get married while I'm pregnant," she told the mag last week. "But I can see myself marrying Kroy in the future."

Albie and Chris Manzo Get 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' Spinoff


TVSquad.com:
Albie and Chris Manzo are ready for their close-up on Bravo. The sons of 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' star Caroline Manzo have begun work on a new spinoff, according to the New York Post.


The two Manzo brothers appeared on Bravo's 'The Millionaire Matchmaker' earlier this season, bringing in the show's highest ratings and getting a lot of female attention.


The New York Post reports that the brothers have signed a contract with Bravo and recently moved into their own place in Hoboken. "The boys were looking for some independence," a source told the Post. "They're getting a ton of attention from the ladies and needed their own space."


Bravo is staying mum on the topic, telling the Post they have "not made any announcement."

Kandi Burruss Crushes Usher Then Beefs With Ex-wife Tameka Foster


Dimewars.com:
Usher Raymond’s baby mama, Tameka Foster, R&B singer/reality TV personality Kandi Burruss got into it last night on Twitter. The Twit beef apparently spawned after Kandi Burruss and her mother appeared on Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live" after last nights episode of "Real Housewives Of Atlanta." When asked by host, Andy Cohen who she was crushing on, Kandi Burress responded, Usher," because she was curious about his famed bedroom antics. Find out how Usher's ex responded on the other side


After someone notified Usher's ex-wife, Tameka Foster of Kandi's comment, The mother of Usher's kids responded


“Girl that doesn’t surprise me, there isn’t many left in town that she hasn’t so…… Go figure…”


Kandi immediately tweeted,


“you on some real bullshit i see…. wow.”


Tameka quickly followed up by inviting Kandi to take the beef offline:


“See I like real live convos.. So anyone that wants to talk to me can DIAL or come SEE ME. I don’t play cyber games..”


Rumors are surfacing that Tameka Foster's comments had some truth in them. It has been alleged that Kandi Buress has got a few married or taken, industry men under her belt (or to undo her belt). Kandi’s son was reportedly fathered by entertainment mogul Russell “Block” Spencer, who was supposedly living with his girlfriend and kids at the time of their fling.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Kim Zolciak -- Real Pregnant, Really Smoking


TMZ.com:
Kim Zolciak from "Real Housewives of Atlanta" took a smoke break while watching an NFL game a few weeks back -- it wouldn't be a big deal ... but Kim is three months pregnant.

Here's the timeline: the photo was taken in Atlanta on November 7, outside the Georgia Dome. Two weeks later, Kim and baby daddy Kroy Biermann (who plays for the Atlanta Falcons) announced they were expecting.

In case you're thinking "Maybe Kim didn't know she was pregnant when she decided to smoke" -- well, think again. Kim told a tabloid this week she denied the pregnancy rumors in October because "[I] wasn't through my first trimester -- you never know what could happen."

Exactly.

Calls to Kim's reps were not returned.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Kelsey's New Apt. -- More Room than Camille's


TMZ.com:
Kelsey Grammer's new reported $6.5 million NYC apartment comes with four bedrooms, stunning views and ... a slap in the face to his soon-to-be ex-wife Camille Grammer.


On a recent episode of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," Camille obnoxiously complained that the three bedroom Manhattan apartment she shared with Kelsey (prior to their separation) was too small.


Well, now Kelsey and his young girlfriend, Kayte Walsh, are one-upping Camille by one room and moving on up to a bigger, four bedroom apartment in the sky.


All's fair in love, war and real estate.
Considering how much Camille used to brag about having 4 nannies and her whole lot of other luxuries, calling this a "bit of irony" would be an understatement.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Danielle Staub's Home Burglarized


NorthJersey.com:
Police report a burglary at the home of Danielle Staub, former cast member of Bravo's hit TV series "The Real Housewives of New Jersey." A second neighbor was also hit.


Officers Gerry Lehman and John Parr received the call of a rear door alarm at Staub's mansion located on Shadow Ridge Road on Nov. 14, at 11:10 a.m. It was discovered that a circuit board connected the home's alarm system was ripped out, said Wayne Police Capt. James Clarke.

"Apparently the burglars were attempting to shut down the system," Clarke said.

Entry was gained through the front door and the individuals exited via a back door, he said.

According to the police report, it is believed that nothing is missing however the home is currently in a transitional stage as Staub had recently moved out. "The house is in disarray right now so it's hard to say actually if anything is gone," Staub told police. Officers stated only some furniture and clothing remains in the house.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Bethenny Frankel On "Skating With The Stars" (Week 1)



"Those aren't really shows that guys watch"?!? How DARE he!

Bankrupt Sonja Morgan's Co-Stars Rally Behind Her


People.com:
Sonja Morgan may be going through some financial hardships after filing for bankruptcy recently, but the Real Housewives of New York City star has the support (and silence) of her costars.

"She'll be fine," Ramona Singer told PEOPLE at GLAAD's OutAuction in New York. "She's a great girl."

As for her other castmates, well, they're being supportive by staying mum.

"The first person to speak about [the bankruptcy] has to be Sonja," Alex McCord said. "We love her and adore her and … we're going to support her by being silent.

Morgan, whose bankruptcy filing listed $19.8 million in debt, still seems to be staying positive, saying at the time, "My current monthly income including support is about $26,000 per month. And I expect this income to improve as new opportunities materialize."
Who knew Sonja was as flighty in her business affairs as she is on the show?

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

'Real Housewives of Atlanta' Spin-offs


BuddyTV.com:
This week on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, NeNe made her first play for television exposure outside RHOA. Now, with the announcement of Kim's pregnancy, Kim and her boyfriend Kroy are looking into a spin-off of their own. Would Bravo even dare to call it Kim Getting Married?? Or would Bravo even get it at all? Is an Atlanta Housewife and an Atlanta Falcon TOO MUCH STAR POWER?


It appears that Kim and Kroy are shopping around their wedding/baby like it's the next Lost. But I thought Kim didn't want to get married while she was pregnant? Is this even about anything other than the opportunity for another TV show? [Radar Online]


Now that we know some of the Housewives are going ghost hunting, it makes me wonder what else they can do! Well in case the Real Housewives of Atlanta dissolve in the off-season and Kim's spin-off takes root, we've come up with some spin-offs for each of the Atlanta Housewives.

Bethenny Frankel Is Serious About 'Skating With The Stars'


Popeater.com:
Following 'Dancing With the Stars' Monday night, ABC debuted 'Skating With the Stars,' a similar competition, except the celebrities have razor-sharp steel blades strapped to their feet! What could possibility go wrong?


Unfortunately, the celebrities on 'Dancing With the Stars' are more famous than their ice skating counterparts, with the exception of the unsinkable 'Real Housewife' of New York, Bethenny Frankel.


"Knowing Bethenny, she's in it to win it," fellow 'Real Housewife' Alex McCord told me last night over dinner in Manhattan. "Bethenny wouldn't have agreed to do it if she didn't think she could win."


Which is something anyone who has ever met Bethenny would be able to confirm.


"This show means the world to her," an insider tells me. "It's always been Bethenny's dream to be on a network in prime time and out of cable. This is her chance to leave 'Real Housewives' and 'The Apprentice' behind. She's super smart and talented and wants to move to the next level of show business. Look at Elisabeth Hasselbeck, she went from 'Survivor' to hosting 'The View' and she isn't half as talented or driven as Bethenny."

Monday, November 22, 2010

Kim Zolciak Is Pregnant


People.com:
Kim Zolciak is pregnant!


"We are happy and excited to announce that Yes we are expecting," The Real Housewives of Atlanta star, 32, wrote Monday on Twitter.


The father is Kroy Biermann, 25, a player for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, whom Zolciak has been dating since May. The pair's first meeting was documented on the Bravo reality show.


Zolciak, who has two daughters from a previous marriage, dodged pregnancy rumors during an appearance Sunday on Bravo's Watch What Happens Live, telling host Andy Cohen she's been drinking tea to preserve her singing voice.
Gee, that was quick.

Lisa Wu Hartwell Reveals Which ATL Housewife She Wants to Fight

DeShawn Snow Getting New Show?



My guess is that it'd be something religious, not that there's anything wrong with that:
DeShawn Snow might be popping up on your TV screen again in the very near future.

 
According to TheYBF.com, the former “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” star is developing a show that’s all about her…mostly. The as-yet untitled project will follow DeShawn as she loses weight, leads her non-profit organization and runs her own production company.

 
The series will be a family affair as the show will also feature DeShawn’s sisters and her mom.

 
While no network has announced that it’s picked up the series, there’s word that Bravo might be interested in airing DeShawn’s show some time next year.
 
This would make DeShawn the second “Real Housewives” alum to get a spin-off. Bethenny Frankel, of “The Real Housewives of New York,” starred in her own series titled “Bethenny Getting Married?” earlier this year.


Friday, November 19, 2010

Phaedra Parks Gives Birth To A Baby Boy


GossipJackal.com:
Phaedra Parks who is one of the stars of the reality show The Real Housewives of Atlanta gave birth to a baby boy on Sunday, November 14, 2010.


She was missing in action from a recent benefit called Dancing Stars of Atlanta, the reason she wasn’t able to attend was because she was giving birth to her new baby boy at a local hospital.


On previous episodes they televised the star’s baby shower. Parks and entertainment lawyer Apollo Nida recently tied the knot.


The two of them have made the decision together that they will not allow their new child to be on the reality tv series that Parks herself stars on.
RELATED: Phaedra Parks On Apollo Nida: Ex-Con Is My Soul Mate!

Michael Cavnaugh Chats with Simon and Alex McCord

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Recap: New York Showdown With Kelsey


NYmag.com:
1. Girl’s Night Out, Part 3 (continued from last week)
Camille: I know I said I was okay with Kyle’s apology earlier, but that was five minutes ago. I’m addicted to drama — it’s a condition, okay? So, can we talk again about how you said nobody is interested in me without Kelsey, or what? It’s been like ten minutes already. I want to point out once again how jealous you are of me.


Kyle: Are you insane? Do you not understand I have severe anger-management issues? Luckily, my sister was there when I didn’t say the things you’re saying I said. My sister will defend me! Kim, you were sitting right there! Tell her!


Kim: I get so confused!* Being a child actress, I find boundaries very problematic. Like now, is this reality, or reality TV?


Lisa: Oh for God’s sake, really? Do you realize you’re practically begging to be crushed to death with this tantalizing weakness of yours? Is everyone with me on this?


Everyone: Fuck yes.


Kim: Okay, fine, it’s true. I never heard my sister say any of the things Camille claims she says. But being a victim of prolonged emotional abuse — and a child actress — I don’t handle stress well. Is it obvious?


Camille: I think Lisa has a Machiavelic* streak. Anyway, I’m out of here, ladies. I can’t resist the opportunity to stalk off in a snit. Being wronged so rocks!


[She leaves.]


Kyle: Thanks a lot, Kim.


Kim: I’m still confused! I don't know what to do! I’m going to turn on Taylor now! Help!


Taylor: Watch it, or I’m going to take you out back and get all Oklahoma on your ass.*


Kim: Sounds really scary. What would that entail, exactly?


Taylor: I actually have no idea.
Of course the irony is that for all of Camille's pretentiousness, general flightiness and all-around arrogance about who she's married to on the show, now she's divorced (hmmm, wonder why?). Yet when it comes to Camille vs. Kyle I have to side with Camille because while Kyle can dish it, she sure can't take it and good for Camille to call her out on that. And why would Kyle be surprised that her dingbat sister didn't take her side at lunch? Because we've clearly seen that Kyle has it more together mentally than Kim does all season long. What was really funny tho was Taylor threatening to go "Oklahoma" on Kim's ass. Damn.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Dina Manzo Talks Leaving 'Housewives' to Help Children With Cancer


Parentdish.com:
Dina Manzo is no ordinary housewife.


The "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star found fame as cameras followed her life, but she decided to step away from the hit Bravo series during its second season. Now she's using her notoriety to launch Project Ladybug, a new initiative to provide resources to seriously ill pediatric patients and their families as they face lengthy treatment regimens.


Manzo has a 14-year-old daughter, Lexi, from her first marriage, and she is now married to Tommy Manzo (the couple tied the knot in 2006 on VH1's "My Big Fat Fabulous Wedding.") ParentDish recently sat down with Manzo, 39, who told us why helping others has become her purpose in life.


Parent Dish: How and why did you start Project Ladybug?
Dina Manzo: My dad was always a big supporter of St. Jude. I remember seeing all of these plaques from Marlo Thomas all over my house. When I was young, it was my dad who taught me about giving back even when times were tough. As I grew older and became an event planner I began thinking, "Hey, I can throw a party for a great cause."


PD: Why use a ladybug as a symbol?
DM: I have always had a little something for ladybugs and every time something special in my life happened I always saw a ladybug. The only time I didn't see one was after my daughter, Lexi, was born and that's when I knew Lexi was my ladybug and I started calling her that as her nickname.


PD: So, that's how you came up with the name for your charity?
DM: Actually, the name was Lexi's idea. I was scratching my head trying to come up with a name and Lexi was like, "Ma, Ladybug!"


PD: What is the mission of Project Ladybug?
DM: Our goal is to create a positive environment while the children are being treated. We do everything from decorating the hallways, the treatment rooms and, at our New Jersey chapter, we are raising funds for a rooftop playground. We also do everything we can to keep a smile on these children's faces, such as getting laptop computers so they can be home schooled, purchase their wigs or throw them a holiday party. If we keep their mindset positive while they are in treatment, their outcome will be a good one.

Lisa Vanderpump Dishes On Inflated Lips & Egos, Catfights and a Special Gigolo


EOnline.com:
Is there anything not to love about The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Lisa Vanderpump?


If so, we haven't found it.


She is beautiful and glamorous (even her chocolate wears Louboutins), hilarious without being unkind, and successfully juggles a zillion jobs and charity work. All this while being a devoted mother (of two lovely humans and some adorable pups) and wife of nearly 30 years.


How does the lovely Brit stay grounded amid her lavish lifestyle? And how is Giggy the Pomeranian handling his newfound fame? Read on...


The Good Mother: While castmate Camille Grammer has four nannies for her two school-age children, and Taylor Armstrong uses her daughter's 4th birthday as an excuse to celebrate herself, that is not Lisa's style. "Mothering has been absolutely my priority in my life—that's why I kind of gave up [acting]. My children were to the point of...I guess obsession. If you see the way I am with Giggy, imagine what I was like with my children. That's probably why they've left home!"


Maybe There's a Reason Energizer Bunnies Are Pink: "I do relax," Lisa (aka Pinky, after her favorite color) insists when we asked the hard-working Housewife if she enjoys any downtime. "But I'm not somebody who wants to sit around by the pool. I've had my swimming pool for five years here and I don't think I've ever been in it. I think going out to dinner away from my own restaurants with my husband is relaxing. I go to the gym every day, where I kind of switch off and watch the news—I find I relax by doing exercise."


Natural Woman: Lisa, who readily admits to using Botox, also says she believes "in keeping it as natural as you can": "I don't like the look of too much of the fillers in the face, the frozen thing and the implants. I would say, if you're going to do something, do it—but if it looks like you've done it, it's not worth it." So would she say anything to someone who's gone overboard—like a certain castmate's zealous use of lip filler? "I would never comment on somebody else's beauty—I think it's very much in the eye of the beholder, and if somebody makes a choice to put something in their face, then that's up to them," says the lovely Lisa. "Absolutely I would never criticize anybody directly—it's hurtful."

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

"Daytime" Interviews Kandi Burruss

Danielle Staub Threatens Legal Action Over ‘Housewives of NJ’ Tour


Some people will do anything to stay in the conversation:
With the new ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ tour there have apparently been a few problems and former castmate Danielle Staub is not letting it blow over.

Staub’s vacant home was reportedly broken into and she claims the people involved in the tour trespassed on her property for which she will take action against. Staub reportedly wrote on her Twitter that the matter will be “prosecuted to the fullest degree of the law.”

Lorraine Mariella, who planned the tour through her Celebrations event and meeting management company, reportedly does not understand the problems. The tour bus allegedly got stuck while turning around near Staub’s property which reportedly led to the passengers having to temporarily exit.

Sonja Morgan Files For Bankruptcy



Geez, this sorta makes Teresa's financial problems look relatively sane by comparison:
One of New York’s “Real Housewives,” Sonja Tremont-Morgan, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday in Manhattan.


Morgan, who joined the cast of Bravo’s “Real Housewives of New York City” in its third season, listed $19.8 million in debt and $13.5 million in assets on her bankruptcy petition.


“The decision to seek bankruptcy relief was not an easy one, but unfortunately, I am at a crossroads in my life,” Morgan said in court papers.


She blamed her financial woes on a failed venture with Hannibal Pictures Inc. to make a movie starring John Travolta. That film was to be called “Fast Flash to Bang Time,” court papers said.


Morgan said the movie never got off the ground because of “various conditions” that Travolta demanded and her production company, Sonja Productions, could not meet. Hannibal Pictures filed a lawsuit against Sonja Productions in California and won a $7 million judgment.

'NewNowNext' Interviews Jill Zarin



Source

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Cynthia Bailey Wants to Befriend 'Housewives' of Bevery Hills


Real H
PopEater.com:
Cynthia Bailey has quickly become Atlanta's newest poster girl, so it may come as a shock that the newest addition to 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta' has only lived in Georgia for three years. After living in New York City for 25 years, the model traded the Big Apple for a Georgia peach, and walked off the runway and onto reality TV.


"Modeling is a walk in the park compared to this thing," Bailey says of her transition to television.


When asked if she studied any of the other 'Housewives' series to prepare for her role, Bailey beamed about 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.' "They're just like rich and ballin' out all over the place ... I just wanna like be friends with them," she laughed.


Bailey chatted with PopEater about avoiding 'Housewives' drama, her issues with Phaedra Parks and whether she'll walk down the aisle this season!

Taylor Armstrong Takes Daughter Ice Skating


DailyMail.com:
It's unclear who was having more fun - Taylor Armstrong or her four-year-old daughter Kennedy.


The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star spent some quality time with her young daughter last night, taking the little girl ice skating at the custom-built temporary ice rink in Santa Monica, California.


The two ladies wrapped up warm for their time on the ice which is a rink erected every year over the Christmas period near to the Santa Monica pier.


Taylor, 38, held up her little girl as Kennedy struggled to get her balance as the pair skated around the rink.


After several minutes of skating the pair headed to the sidelines where they sat and watched other skaters ans enjoyed some refreshments of water and hot chocolate.


Kennedy is the only child of Taylor and her husband Russell, a venture capitalist.

Danielle Staub's New Jersey House Broken Info


RadarOnline.com:
There is never a dull moment for the Real Housewives of New Jersey as former cast mate Danielle Staub can attest to – her million dollar mansion was the target of a break-in over the weekend.


The prominent New Jersey neighborhood where Staub owns a home featured on the TV shoq was the victim of a crime spree on Saturday.


Local police tell RadarOnline.com that although there was a bus tour of the Real Housewife’s home earlier that day; it’s not connected to the crimes.


"There were break-ins at Danielle's house and two other neighbors,” confirmed Captain Clark of the Wayne, NJ police department. “We do not have any evidence that the tour had anything to do with the break-in. This appears to be a random break-in and has nothing to do with the show. We do not have a suspect at this time. Another house had their security system camera ripped off but they did not do that at Danielle's house."


Danielle has recently moved to another property
and her former home, which became a celebrity landmark from the popularity of the hit Bravo show, has been vacant for months although she still owns the property.


Danielle’s former neighbor, Mark Mazzarell, watched the tour bus visit the street and described what happened to RadarOnline.com. “They had all taken the tour, but the driver didn’t see how narrow the street was, so he tried to back up which was impossible. He didn’t mean to, but he had to back onto a neighbor’s lawn. So the tour got off the bus so the driver could turn around. They were just wandering around and walked up Danielle’s driveway and it all looked very innocent.

Monday, November 15, 2010

StraightFromTheATV Interviews Kandi Burruss

Tamra Barney: 'I'm Dating Again'


DigitalSpy.com:
The Real Housewives Of Orange County's Tamra Barney has stated that she has moved on from her recent split from husband Simon by beginning to date once again.

In an interview with Us magazine, the reality star revealed that her boyfriend Eddie has no problem lavishing her with gifts.

"My boyfriend just bought me a new car for my birthday, BMW 335i Convertible, so I may be done for the year," she joked.

Barney added that she plans to spend the holidays relaxing at home with her new beau.

"We just got back from Spain, so we're just going to stay home and relax and enjoy each other."

The Real Housewives Of Orange Country is to return for a new season in 2011 on Bravo.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

The Real Housewives of New York Are Taking a Trip to Morocco


NYmag.com:
First it was Carrie Bradshaw, now the Real Housewives of New York are swapping Manhattan for Morocco.


Leaving New York City behind, Kelly Bensimon, Jill Zarin and Countess LuAnn de Lesseps were all spotted by our spies at JFK Airport on Thursday, checking in at the Air Moroc counter.


"We were so excited to see the Housewives, they didn't all come together though, we saw them arrive separately checking in at the Air Moroc check in," one eyewitness told


"We overheard a fan say she was excited because she was on the same plane as them headed for Morocco."


In keeping with the Muslim country's more modest dress code, we're told the Housewives will swap their mini-skirts and strappy tops for more traditional and full-length clothing.


Producers have remained tight-lipped about the plotlines and what exactly brings the New York women to Morocco.


But we're told fellow stars Alex McCord, Ramona Singer, Sonja Morgan and new co-star, Cindy Barshop, are also expected to travel to the Arab nation.

TLC Orders 'Real Housewives' Knockoff Set In Alabama


Film.com:
You know what the world doesn't have enough of? Reality shows featuring a handful of women going about their everyday lives.


So thank goodness TLC has ordered a limited run of a new "docu-series" which sounds suspiciously like our favorite housewives franchise on Bravo. The Real Housewives of Alabama -- or Bama Belles, as TLC is calling it -- stars five ladies from rural Dothan, Alabama (population: around 58K at last count in 2003). OK, so maybe it's not so Real Housewives after all.


Set to premiere Dec. 5 at 10 p.m., the BBC-produced show focuses on five women struggling to balance their families, careers and relationships, according to Variety.


"Bama Belles is exploring a group of women, a city and a life that we think our viewers will really connect to," said TLC production/development senior VP Nancy Daniels. "TLC is taking a real look at the southern lifestyle of these women in a relatable and fun way."


The cast, ranging in age from 24 to 39, includes a radio personality/real estate developer; an ex-beauty queen; an Army reservist and an internet entrepreneur originally from New York. TLC has ordered three hour-long episodes to start.


On a side note, we can't help but wonder if the folks who did Southern Belles (a Louisville,Ky.-based snoozefest that aired on SoapNet a few years back) have anything to do with this. If so, we'll take a pass.


Better luck to you, 'Bama babes.
Biters.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Ramona Singer: Motherhood Has Changed Bethenny


Starmagazine.com:
The Real Housewives of New York City is all about drama but Ramona Singer says her costar Bethenny Frankel has a new focus: motherhood!


"I think children ground you and bring out the warmth out in you and I know Bryn has done that for Bethenny," Ramona tells Star of her pal's 6-month-old baby girl. She gushed, "Bryn's beautiful and funny. Bryn has really changed Bethenny."


Ramona also says she can relate to Bethenny's current conundrum of whether to go for Baby #2. "I think she should do what makes her comfortable. I only had one child, I have a little bit of regret now." Ramona revealed her advice to Bethenny: "I think you need to do what makes you happy because a happy mother makes a happy child and happy husband."


Finding time to have another baby may not be easy for workaholic Bethenny, who just signed on for the upcoming reality show Skating With The Stars. Ramona says she can't wait to watch the Dancing With The Stars spinoff. "I'm a little nervous for her. I hope she doesn't fall!"

Lisa Vanderpump Answers Fan Questions @ AMAs 2010

MaximoTV.com Interviews Kyle Richards

Cynthia Bailey Gives A Lesson On Dealing With Your Ex



I'm not going to lie: the scene with Cynthia and Leon was one of the best I've ever seen on "Housewives". Ex's bickering over their kids could take a lesson or two from Cynthia and Leon:
How do you broach the topic of remarriage with an ex? Bravo's "Real Housewives of Atlanta" offers one approach--and it's (shockingly) drama-free. 

On a recent episode of the hit show, Real Housewife Cynthia Bailey confides in her ex-fiance (and father of daughter Noelle), actor Leon Robinson, about marrying her then-boyfriend, restaurateur Peter Thomas.

When she tells Robinson that she's considering marriage with her new beau, Robinson asks, "Have you told him that you can't wait to marry him?"

Responds Bailey: "Well I think I have. I told him he's gonna be 50 this year and I don't wanna just play house...that's not very romantic, huh?" (Bailey and Thomas have have since wed).

In a later voice-over, Bailey says, "Me and Leon have this great relationship. We've created this amazing love child together. We were never married, but we were engaged...I know it's kind of weird getting marital advice from someone that I was actually supposed to marry, but he knows me better than anyone."

Friday, November 12, 2010

Lisa Vanderpump's Dog Prays for Death on "Watch What Happens: Live"



Eonline.com:
On last night's Watch What Happens: Live, host Andy Cohen welcomed The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' real housewife of Beverly Hills Lisa Vanderpump to the show. And Lisa introduced us to her dog Jiggy, who must be the saddest canine in the world.


It's true. He does have some hilarious tweets. Here's the one he posted right before they taped that show:


"She's gonna try and dress me as a cowboy again, but guess what? Tonight's the night I put my paw down. It's time I stand up and beg for all of dog-kind and say, 'Enough is enough! Stop anthropomorphizing us with your stupid costumes!' Oh, here she comes. No Lisa, I will not wear—Is that people food? Oh yes, I want it I want it I want it! Yes, yes I'll do anything for it—sure, I can wear that! Oh thank you thank you I love you I love you."

Will Kim Richards Ever Escape Witch Mountain?


EOnline.com:
Someone give this woman a hug, stat!

Kim Richards isn't your typical Real Housewife. She's virtually homeless, seriously single and shy, so why did she sign on to such a social, fishbowl show? We just caught up with her—she's finally settled down, but far from the 90210 ZIP code—to find out...
"I just thought it'd be fun to do this with my sister [Kyle Richards]," Kim explained. "Plus, my kids were getting older so it felt like the perfect time to kind of get back into working a little bit. I've done a couple films in the past years and I thought, let's try reality TV!"

Apparently Kim hasn't seen much reality TV, however, because she told us, "I thought it was going to be a bunch of girls going out and having fun. I wasn't prepared for the drama and conflict"—or, apparently, crazy Camille. "I like calm...I don't like yelling," added the poor thing, who got a stereo dose of it last night sitting between her sister and Kelsey Grammer's soon-to-be ex. (If Bravo cares at all about this woman's sanity, they will keep her far away from screeching table-flipper Teresa Giudice.)

Even socializing with the Beverly Hills Housewives when they were calm "very difficult" for Kim at first. "I really have been a stay-at-home mom for a long time. It was a bit overwhelming...adjusting to traveling and going out more and opening up my world."

She grew up around cameras, but Kim said bringing them into her home was a different story. "I'm used to getting a script and someone laying my clothes in the trailer and getting hair and makeup and then we go. And now people are following me doing that in my own life. It's stressful. Opening up your world to cameras is a big thing and being mic-ed all the time—that's a lot to get used to!"
Kim is definitely the odd one on RHOBH. which is kind of weird considering her background as a child actress. Clearly she wasn't going out much before the show and her need to have the kids around is a little sad to watch. Hopefully being on the show has made her bring down her walls a little bit and be normal.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Teresa Giudice Hosting Seminar


ChicagoNow.com:
Hey! It's been a while since we've had a news story about my beloved Tree! But lucky us, we have three today...so let's just dig right in...

Yesterday, Teresa debuted a blog where she's going to 'set the record straight' and let us know what's fact and what's fiction in the land of Fabuliciousiosoness. Fair enough. So far, it basically says that everything Radar Online and Life and Style says is false. She's great, everything's great, love, love, love!

Man, if only the captain of the Titanic had as much enthusiasm and optimism.

Another thing revealed on Teresa's website is her new class she's teaching at the Learning Annex called Frozen Pizza Dough A Go-Go "How to have it All". For the very reasonable amount of $44.95 you can listen to how Teresa uses marketing, dealing with the press, and all that good stuff...and apply it to your life. Ok, fair enough. I think if I were in New York, I might buy a ticket. I'm a sucker for the Learning Annex. I am. If you'll recall it's where Bethenny goes to talk about stuff too. Donald Trump does it a lot, it's a very big, "I made it and so can you.." kind of thing, and I love hearing those stories. And whether you like Teresa or not, girlfriend has built a brand after all that has happened over the summer. That takes guts.  So if you're in Manhattan, head on over to Professor Giudice's class, and let me know how it is.

Kyle Richards Tells Camille Grammer She Needs "Help"



USmagazine.com:
Kyle Richards and Camille Grammer are serving up the drama!

When the cast of Bravo's The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills meets up for dinner during a trip to NYC, Grammer, 42, overhears her costar calling her "insecure."

"You like to throw little digs at me," Grammer complains (watch above).

Richards' response? "You know what? You need to get help!"

Cynthia Bailey Talks 'Housewives' and Marriage Drama


Celebuzz.com:
Lights, cameras and attention all come with the territory for model, mother and aspiring entrepreneur Cynthia Bailey, but the newest addition to Bravo’s breakout series Real Housewives of Atlanta is still adjusting to the whirlwind of newfound stardom she is encountering. The Alabama-native recently sat down with Celebuzz to sound off on her Housewives cast mates, her love life, her future business ventures and learning how to sign autographs again.


Why did you choose to participate in RHOA?


I moved to Atlanta 3 years ago and it’s just one of those things that kept coming up. It came up and an interview turned into another interview to a screen test to sitting in front of you. It wasn’t a plan and initially I didn’t really think I would make good reality TV because I’m not super confrontational. I’m not a big drama queen, though I have drama. I actually managed to surprise my own self. I got right in there and held my own pretty well. The show is so successful , it’s actually the number one Housewives show on Bravo. Everyone watches it. I think we are on episode six, and all I can say is that we are just getting started! We have about 15 more episodes to go and we haven’t even scratched the surface. It’s going to be a fantastic season.


Did you know any of the Housewives before shooting?


The only person I had met before was NeNe. I met her through a mutual friend and I was very intimidated by her at first. I couldn’t have imagined that we would have connected on the show before we met. When we did meet, we didn’t really hit it off. Basically we had drinks and she talked the whole time. I initially thought that I would connect with Kandi. I was like, ‘She’s so down to earth like me. We’re going to be best friends and take Noelle and Riley for play dates.’ Well, that didn’t happen. It ended up being NeNe. We are a really good balance, because I am her calm. I’m her rationale. We complement each other.


Describe the overall experience of shooting the reality show.


It’s really difficult to shoot the show. Being on the show is such a big thing for me. I would sit on my living room couch like everyone else and be like ‘if I was on the show, I would’ve said this and that. I would’ve checked her. It looks so easy, but it’s not. It really was a huge adjustment for my life. So far it has been amazing and I am really excited that I have had this experience.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Danielle Staub: 'I Am the Susan Lucci of Reality TV'


Popeater.com:
Danielle Staub loves the camera, her family and keeping it real, in no particular order. PopEater caught up with the 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' alum at Tuesday's opening night party for Colin Quinn's one-man Broadway show, 'Long Story Short,' and she was generous with the details on her upcoming reality show.
Staub calls her as-yet-untitled series a "spin-off," and promises to announce soon which network will get the honor of airing it. "It's gonna be all about me, my family and the real Danielle Staub that my fans and loved ones have been dying to see."

She also promises to keep things 100% authentic and, from the sounds of our quick chat, 100% quotable. "Nothing is a facade with me. Everything that I do is real," she tells us, before deadpanning, "That is why I am the Susan Lucci of reality television."
Yeah, except that in real life Susan Lucci has been married to the same man for like 30 years, you dunce.

Teresa Giudice Creates Blog, Talks 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' Rumors


Examiner.com:

Teresa Giudice is taking yet another opportunity to share her thoughts -- and also squash some of the rumors out there about her life. The star of Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" has created a new website, and in it she takes advantage of the opportunity to take on some of the latest rumors regarding her life. Rather than address any of them specifically, she is choosing to instead take the high road:
"I'm not jealous of anyone. I am so blessed to have a great life, a great family, and my health (and I think I look pretty good for having 4 kids). I just turned in my second book 'Fabulicious' to the publisher. My first 'Skinny Italian' just went into its 4th printing. And I think you can tell from all the photos online that Bravo didn't fire me. "
Teresa has indeed been spotted recently with camera crews for the upcoming third season of the show, which will return in some capacity next year.

Six Things You Never Knew About Dina Manzo


Hollywoodlife.com:
One of our favorite HollyMoms, Dina Manzo, has a lot to brag about. After leaving The Real Housewives of New Jersey, Dina has been keeping busy as the President and Founder of Project Ladybug, her charity that enriches the lives of children with life threatening conditions. This philanthropist and fashionista is also a full time mom — her daughter Lexi is 14. We thought we knew everything about this Jersey girl, but we were wrong!


* I love the smell of horse breath & gasoline (but not together).


* I had really bad hair for most of my childhood. I was the youngest of 11, and my mom had no time!


* I love children, old people and animals, and will cry at most anything that has to do with them.


* I had a mad crush on David Letterman and King Kong (yes, the ape!) as a child.


* I drive like a man.


* I believe I have truly found my life’s purpose since founding Project Ladybug and working with children with cancer.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Adrienne Maloof Nassif Talks Kids, Beauty & Lindsay Lohan

Bethenny Frankel Is 'Skating On Ice' to 'One-Up Rival Jill Zarin', Says Her Mom


RadarOnline.com:

Bethenny Frankel's new television adventure Skating With The Stars is nothing more than attempt to get back at her one-time pal Jill Zarin, her estranged mom told RadarOnline.com.

Bernadette Burke, who hasn't spoken to the star of Bravo's The Real Housewives of New York City and Bethenny Getting Married? in more than a decade, said her daughter's slippery TV role was typical of the woman she raised -- a desperate attempt to further her career.

"As soon as I saw that she was going to be on Skating with the Stars I just knew she had an ulterior motive," Burke told RadarOnline.com in an exclusive interview.

"It is for fame and the to one up Jill Zarin.

"I've watched only three episodes of the show and in one Jill Zarin was so proud of her skating and even had a party.

"As soon as I saw Bethenny was skating, I knew she had another reason than just having fun."

Taylor Armstrong Is Frustrated: No One Gets My Humor


Hollywoodlife.com:

There’s no question that the youngest Real Housewife of Beverly Hills, Taylor Armstrong, is a charming and intelligent philanthropist and entrepreneur. However, the gal who can add the spice to any group of ladies is working on delivering more of the funny, because she thinks the other housewives don’t get her humor!

“Lately, I’ve been feeling like some people haven’t been getting the humor immediately,” Taylor told HollywoodLife.com exclusively at the TV Guide Hot List Party Nov. 8.”I don’t know maybe I need to take some comedy classes or something.”

She might actually have a point there. So many comedians from shows like SNL and South Park make a living from impersonating the Housewives, it would be nice to see one of the women actually hold their own and have the opportunity for some worthy comebacks from time to time!

Do you think Taylor has what it takes to be funny, or does her crazy and glamorous life provide enough LOLs already?

Monday, November 8, 2010

Bravo May Ditch Teresa Guidice


BaltimoreSun.com:
"The Real Housewives of New Jersey" is now moving into its third season and the Bravo TV show may be turning its back on its table-flipping star, Teresa Giudice.


Not surprisingly, Giudice, who filed for bankruptcy in 2009, is asking for more money than Bravo is willing to give her, and the show's producers are reportedly looking for new cast members.


Nevertheless, Real Housewives has already reportedly filmed at two events where Giudice was present.


Details are murky, in part because Bravo is taking extra precautions to prevent leaks on the Internet. Bravo event went so far as to cancel a recent shoot at the Heaven Hill Farm in Vernon because of the buzz on the web preceding the event.


As for Giudice and her reported estate sale, A.J. Willner Auctions says it was notified that any bidding has been postponed indefinitely. The company was hired to sell the estate after the Giudices landed $10.98 million in debt when the filed for bankruptcy in June.


The Giudices may be depending in part on her salary demands to help them buy back their own belongings. The couple can negotiate a lower price tag for their things in bankruptcy court if the creditors are willing to settle for less than the appraised value.


Incredibly, court records showed that as of August 15 Teresa Giudice blew $60,000 on new furniture and lavish items. According to People Magazine, the money was an advance for Giudice's new book, "Skinny Italian".


It appears Bravo may not stand beside Giudice, however, and has placed ads for new cast members in several New Jersey publications and even dropped off fliers in several Jersey stores.
If there's one thing you notice about Teresa over and over again it's that she's not too bright. Yeah, she may have every right to want a raise, but one would think she'd know how much being on RHONJ has served as a cash cow for her in terms of the publicity it's generated for her and her business ventures. Teresa may want to continue blaming Bravo for the coverage her financial problems have gotten, but at the end of the day it's her and Joe's fault that they're in trouble to begin with.

Jeana Keough Wants To Lose Another 15 Pounds- Her Simple Diet & Body Tricks


RadarOnline.com:

Former The Real Housewives of Orange County star Jeana Keough lost 25 pounds on national television but her sights are set even higher – she wants to drop even more pounds!

“I’d like to lose another 15 pounds!” Jeana told RadarOnline.com exclusively.

So how will she do it?

“I’ll increase my cardio. I do four and a half hours of weight work a week three days a week, and two days of cardio,” said Jeana, who recently revealed her whopping weight loss on Bravo’s ‘Thintervention with Jackie Warner.’

And she makes sure her workout isn’t really work.

“One day we run the football stadium at the high school like Rocky,” she boasted. 

“And I’ll do four or five laps around the football field. I’ll also swim or do kickboxing. I always make sure it’s at least an hour a day.”

Jeana dished on her secrets to slimming success– with a little help from her coach Jackie, who stays in touch with her via email to check in on her continued progress.

Danielle Staub Sued For Claiming Ex-Boyfriend Secretly Taped Them Having Sex


Hollywoodlife.com:

Danielle Staub, easily the most controversial figure in the Real Housewives of New Jersey, has been served in yet another suit over statements she made on the hit Bravo show. This time, ex-boyfriend Stephen Zalewski says Danielle defamed him by claiming he took video of the pair having sex without her knowledge. Now Stephen tells HollywoodLife.com that Danielle’s accusations are causing his current relationship to suffer, and he fears they will also hinder future love interests.


Stephen says he’s afraid his current girlfriend’s father is going to question him about Danielle’s allegations that he’s a peeping tom.

And we exclusively obtained the suit, which says “Staub made statements to an international television audience on ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey‘ that the plaintiff had recorded her in engaging in sexual acts without her knowledge.”

Danielle is being sued for defamation, invasion of privacy and harassment.

Crazy Kelly Bensimon: My Kids Don't Think I'm Cool


People.com:
She may be a Real Housewife, but that doesn't make Kelly Bensimon cool, according to her kids.


"They think I'm their mom," she said of her daughters, Sea Louis, 12, and Thaddeus Ann, 10. "Because I'm their mom I'm not really cool, but their friends like me, so I guess my cool factor is like a two on a [scale of] one to ten – better than a zero."


Like most children fear that their parents will embarrass them, the Real Housewives of New York City star said her daughters are no different, and have told her to "tone it down" in the past.


"They tell me to wait outside the school and not come in and not to embarrass them," Bensimon, 42, told PEOPLE at Tao Las Vegas's 5-year anniversary party Saturday. "I'm like, I'm not even saying anything."
Her kids don't want their mom to meet their friends? Good for them.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Kyle Richards And Bethenny Frankel Go Way Back


NYPost.com:

After the colossal failure that was "Real Housewives of D.C.," I think we all began to doubt Bravo's ability to hone in on new social circles that were as engaging, dynamic and hysteria prone as their Orange County, New York, New Jersey and Atlanta predecessors.

Thankfully DC proved to be an aberration the night "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" bowed -- not a huge shock given the pedigree. From the homes to the jewels to the drama, every signature element of the franchise is bigger, better and blonder. 

But it's a pair of the shows brunettes that have turned the show into appointment viewing: Lisa Vanderpump & Kyle Richards. This afternoon I caught up with Kyle to pick her brain on five of fans' biggest burning questions. Thankfully it didn't matter if we were talking about her war with fellow Housewife Camille Grammer or her constant rivalry with sibling Kim Richards, she was just as straight-forward as I had hoped. 

PopWrap: Were you hesitant about doing reality TV?
Kyle Richards: It’s funny because in LA the running joke was that every girl in town said, “oh they asked me to do it and I turned it down.” Except they didn’t ask half those girls [laughs]. I really was hesitant though, growing up as an actress, I never wanted to do reality TV – to me that is the kiss of death. But when this came up I did my homework and watched all the shows ... and I got so into them, it was embarrassing. As soon as the house cleared out I would make popcorn and watch "Real Housewives of Atlanta."


PW: But you were friends with "RHONY" star Bethenny Frankel prior to this, right?
Kyle: For like 20 years. She was the hostess at a restaurant in Beverly Hills .. she’ll probably kill me for saying this. But I was having lunch one day and she plopped down right next to me and said, “do you use Lancome eye makeup remover?” Turns out she was dating my ex and the Lancome was in his apartment. We started laughing and became friends. Then I got her a job with my sister driving Paris and Nicky to school. 


PW: You seem to mesh with the entire cast ... except for Camille Grammer -- why do you think that is?
Kyle: We're just night and day. It's funny because I don't fight with people, I think I get along with everybody. But we just clashed from day one, which really surprised me. And it wasn't even for the cameras, our fight started off camera. Every time we tried to fix it, we just made it worse. Next week is the big kick off when everything starts to flare up. So I look at this week as the last chance for some nice family time before the screaming.
Interesting. But yeah, I don't think Bethenny's going to be happy at all about Kyle telling the world that she used to be Paris and Nicky's chauffeur.

Cynthia Bailey: I Always Feel Like I'm Being Set Up for Sabotage


TVGuide.com:
What has new Real Housewives of Atlanta star Cynthia Bailey learned from being on reality TV? "It looks so easy from your living room couch, but it's not easy!" she says. "It's very emotionally and mentally exhausting."

That's right. Drama doesn't just manufacture itself. The producers have laid traps everywhere, and Bailey says it's work trying to navigate. "Before you go to shoot scenes, you always feel like you're being set up for sabotage [Laughs]. You have to mentally prep. 'OK, I'm getting ready to go have dinner with Sheree. What could she be getting ready to throw at me?' It's tiring trying to figure out what landmine I'm about to step in."

Bailey spoke to TVGuide.com about stepping in it with her other new cast member Phaedra Parks, getting on Kim Zolciak's bad side, and hosting one very memorable Mother's Day brunch.

TVGuide.com: In last week's episode, your Mother's Day brunch kind of devolved into...
Cynthia Bailey:
A cross between Girls Gone Wild and the Food Network?

TVGuide.com: That's a good way of putting it. (For those who missed that scene, check it out here.):
Bailey:
Can I tell you that was the first time we had all got together? I'm new. I had no idea what we were going to talk about, but I didn't think it was going to be an episode of Real Sex. What's funny is the ones you'd think would be conservative in bed? They're the ones that want to pop a pop tart up there! It was crazy and slightly mortifying. Kandi's telling us about how she got her mom a dildo, she and Phaedra are talking about what sugar does to your vajayjay. ... I was like, "What is happening here?"

TVGuide.com:  Phaedra has done a lot of fascinating things so far, from putting a rosebush in her hair to saying she wanted to deliver her baby prematurely. During your shared limo ride with her, she more or less said your fiance was "dirty" because he had kids from previous relationships.
Bailey:
That limo ride was the first time I had been around her. ...  I'm not used to people just offending me to my face like that, and I didn't even realize what was happening. I got out of that car and thought, "Wait, I think she just completely threw us under the bus!" Peter [Bailey's fiancé] and I couldn't get out of there quick enough. We looked at each other afterward like, "What have we done? What is going on? Who are these people? Who acts like this? Who dresses like this? This is insane!"


That definitely didn't make me a big fan of hers, and as you can see, she doesn't have a whole lot of nice things to say about me so far: I'm not pretty enough to be a model, my house is not nice enough...

TVGuidecom: Any thoughts you care to share about her pregnancy photo shoot?
Bailey:
As soon as I saw her walk out with that pickle jar — and I've been modeling for 25 years — I knew that was going to come off really cute or really awful. You decide.
Cynthia's a good-looking woman who seems to have her head on straight, but so far far its clearly Phaedra whose been making a name for herself on RHOA this season. Cynthia better be careful before Bravo gets rid of her for being too "boring" (i.e. sane).

Friday, November 5, 2010

Beverly Hills Housewives Reveal All the Plastic Surgery They've Had


USmagazine.com:
It's no secret the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills have had plastic surgery.


But who's had what?


They recently spilled all on Judith Regan's SIRIUS XM radio show:


KIM RICHARDS: "I did a little Botox at one point with my sister, and I did have implants that I had taken out. They made them too big, and I couldn’t see my feet. Not that I loved my toes, but I would like to glance at them now and then."


KYLE RICHARDS: "I did have my nose done. I have done Botox. My husband doesn't know, but he does now ... But these are my own boobs!"


ADRIENNE MALOOF: "Botox, fillers, boobs, nose ... No lips ... No cheek bones."


LISA VANDERPUMP: "I plead the fifth ... Okay, I have a bucket of Botox in my face!"


TAYLOR ARMSTRONG: "Just start from the top, right? You should've seen what I looked like before - oh my God! I mean, scary! So yeah ... filler [lips], Botox. And I had my boobs done."


CAMILLE GRAMMER "Oh God, what have I done? Let’s see, obviously I’ve had a breast augmentation and ... Botox absolutely -- just a crock full of Botox."'
Out of all of them Taylor, Camille and Adrienne are pretty obvious, I wouldn't have guessed the others.

Lisa Wu-Hartwell Talks New Book "When the Cake is Made"

What Entrepreneurs Can Learn from "The Real Housewives of Atlanta"


Forbes.com:

My obsession with Bravo’s The Real Housewivesbegan a few years ago with the women from Orange County. Since then, I’ve developed a love-hate relationship with the girls of Hotlanta. At times, I can totally relate to what’s going on in their lives, but there are moments when I could do without the ratings-driven drama and stereotypes of black women.

As with anything I watch on TV, there has to be some educational element built into the show or it’s not worth my time tuning in. The lessons aren’t always obvious so it’s important to pay close attention and catch the reruns if necessary. Here are a few takeaways from the season thus far.

GOALS

During season two, Kim Zolciak debuted her iTunes single, “Tardy for the Party,” which was produced by fellow Housewife, Kandi Buress. Fast forward to season three and Kim still doesn’t have a clue as to where she wants her newfound singing career to go.

When Buress asked what she wanted next, Zolciak replied, “I don’t know.” It’s been reported that the single has made close to six figures and Kim has had a number of appearances and performances. The last thing she should want is to have all of the hype die down without leveraging it for more exposure, money, and longevity. We all know the shelf life of a reality star’s celebrity status is short lived.

Reality Check: Have a plan before you start. It doesn’t have to be detailed, but do map out next steps. If the only reason you’re getting in the game is to become the next one-hit-wonder, you’re better off watching from the sidelines.

CONTRACTS
When Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter Kandi Buress produced Kim’s single, she did so without having a binding legal contract. Surprising since Kandi’s professional music industry experience dates back to 1992.

I’m sure Kandi did this only because the two are friends, and as a result, she forfeited any rights to profit off the project. Buress stated if she works with Zolciak in the future, she’s treating it like business as usual and getting paid accordingly. I can’t fathom Buress herself not officially signing on the dotted line last year with Capitol Records, although that deal has since dissolved.

Reality Check: Business attorneys aren’t exclusively reserved for tycoons, pro athletes, and major corporations. Sooner or later you’ll need legal advice. Interview a few and have one on stand-by for when the need arises.
It's funny what you can learn from just listening to the rich and famous instead of ridiculing them.

"The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" Scores Highest Rated Episode of the Series to Date


TheFutonCritic.com:
Bravo's hit docu-series "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" earned the highest rated episode for the series in all key demos - up 51 percent from last week -- with 1.87 million total viewers and 1.31 million adults 18-49, according to Nielsen Media Research. In addition, this episode was the No. 1 cable entertainment telecast in prime time among adults 18-49. For more information, visit www.BravoTV.com. Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BravoPR.


Hosted by Bravo's Andy Cohen, last night's episode of "Watch What Happens: Live" scored over 1 million total viewers and 684,000 adults 18-49, up 26 percent and 40 percent respectively from the prior week. The show airs live Thursday and Sunday nights at 11pm ET from the Bravo club room. Viewers can email, Facebook or tweet questions to @BravoAndy. For video clips go to: http://www.bravotv.com/watch-what-happens-live.


In next week's episode, airing on Thursday, November 11, at 10p.m ET/PT, Camille Grammer invites the women to New York for the premiere of Kelsey Grammer's Broadway musical, but things are off to a very rough start. Adrienne Maloof receives some bad news from home and Kyle is still worried about the fallout from her and Camille's Vegas show down.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Kandi Burruss Talks Nene's Plastic Surgery

Kimberly Bryant To Chair Fashion Show Benefit


DailyHerald.com:
After appearing in the original season of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” Lake Bluff resident Kimberly Bryant finds herself recognized wherever she goes.

“Especially when I’m with my family,” the suburban homemaker says. “We’re all surprised by how much we’ve lost our anonymity.”

Still, on Sunday, she is willing to put her fame to good use, when she headlines the 16th annual Dream a Little Dream Fashion Show, to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
The event takes place at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont and already has sold out, drawing more than 1,300 guests. Allison Rosati, co-anchor of NBC 5 Chicago, will serve as emcee.

“Kimberly is not what you think, when you think of a celebrity from reality TV,” says Cathy Breit, of Northbrook, one of the founders of the fashion show. “She’s sharp and articulate and passionate about helping other people.”

Bryant attended the fashion show last year with a friend and immediately drew fans in attendance, especially younger ones, to seek her autograph.

“We figured she could bring in a younger crowd and help make them aware of St. Jude’s,” adds Breit, whose father, Joseph Shaker, was one of the original businessmen to start St. Jude’s with actor Danny Thomas. 

“What we didn’t know was how involved she would be, as our honorary chair. She’s got such fun, creative fundraising ideas.”

The other reason Bryant was such a good fit is that she is a cancer survivor. As a native of Newport Beach, Calif., she says she grew up on the beach and, as a result, has had five episodes with malignant melanoma.

One of those was part of the storyline in her “Real Housewives” season, which aired in 2006.

“For me, the only thing worse than having cancer would be if one of my children were to have cancer,” Bryant says. “That’s why I’ve become such a huge supporter of St. Jude’s and all the work they do in treating childhood cancer.”
Took a couple of years, but I finally tracked you down Kimberly Bryant!