Russell Armstrong Chilling 911 Call: "My Friend Just Hanged Himself"

TMZ.com:

TMZ has obtained the 911 call made moments after the body of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Russell Armstrong was found on August 15 at a friend's home where Russell was staying.


You can hear the caller say, "My friend just hanged himself, do you understand? Come over here and stop asking questions."


As TMZ first reported, Russell's estranged wife Taylor Armstrong was also there when the body was found -- and you can hear the caller console her ... saying, "Come here Taylor, it's alright. It's alright, it's alright." The first words you hear a sobbing Taylor say are, "I need my psychiatrist."


Perhaps the most heartbreaking part is when the caller reveals Russell's 5-year old daughter is also at the house. At one point he says, "Taylor, have your daughter go away please."


The 911 operator asks if Russell is beyond help -- and the caller responds, "No, there's nothing you can do, it's nothing we can do. Just please come as soon as possible."

'Real Housewives of New Jersey' Recap: Joe Giudice Is a Bad Person, Worse Drunk

Seems that after watching the episode of "Real Housewives of New Jersey' a lot of bloggers are pissed out there at Joe Giudice and right so. Needless to say I co-sign:

Tonight's episode of The Real Housewives of New Jersey revealed something I had a sneaking suspicion to be true all along. Joe Giudice is the real reason for all the tension between Teresa and Joe and Melissa Gorga. Because he's a colossal douche bag.


Now, before I rip Joe a new one, I would like to say that Teresa doesn't totally get off scot-free in the Giudice-Gorga drama department. Nor does Melissa. Nor does her brother, Joe. They all add fuel to the fire. But, hooo boy, does Joe Giudice take the mean, nasty, threatening-text cake.


So, it was (one of) Teresa's book signings. (Nothing weird about that.) And she invited her brother and sister-in-law to attend. (A nice step in the right direction.) Then, on the day of the event, Teresa's animal of a husband starts sending rude -- and eventually threatening -- messages to her brother, saying things like, "I'm going to wire your jaw shut!" Holy shit, right? I mean, I knew Joe was a jerk, but I didn't think he was that big of a jerk.


Then, Teresa has her book signing. Kathy Wakile and husband Rich show up. (Aw.) And, at the very end, Joe and Melissa show up. (Joe Giudice never went.) Teresa has an oddly touching -- and sort of uncomfortable -- moment with her brother, and he tells her about the texts. She's pissed ...


... But not as pissed drunk as Joe Giudice is when she finds him at home. You know, there are certain people who get so sloppy and unattractive when they drink that it's hard to ever look at them the same again -- Joe is one of those people. (Not that I ever found him attractive before.) He was crass, he was loud, and he chipped his front tooth (and made daughter Gia cry) when he attempted a somersault-type thing on his kids' gymnastics mat. After that, he got nasty.


He starts yelling and pointing at Teresa (and telling her to shut up) when she confronts him about his texts to her brother. (In front of people.) I was actually proud of Teresa, because in what seemed like the first time ever, she actually stood up to him. But that only fueled him more.


He told her he broke up with her when they were dating way back when because he didn't need her (or, as he said it, "I didn't need yous"), and he went on and on about Joe Gorga. But he did this all sort of violently. In a word, he was a nightmare.


I don't think Teresa and Joe will ever get a divorce -- and I would never wish that on their kids -- but something has to give with that man. He is an awful, awful person, and as obnoxious as Teresa can be sometimes, she definitely doesn't deserve that.

RELATED: Real Housewives of New Jersey: Joe Guidice is a Crazy, Drunk Caveman

Bravo Will Air Special To Address Russell Armstrong Suicide

LATimes.com:

Bravo will air a special addressing the suicide of Russell Armstrong, the estranged husband of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Taylor Armstrong, sources close to production told Show Tracker.


The ladies of the show -- Lisa Vanderpump, Camille Grammer, Kyle and Kim Richards, and Adrienne Maloof--filmed the special Monday; Taylor was not present. It's unclear if the special will air before or after the premiere of the show's second season.


An individual close to one of the "Housewives" said the ladies were not given specifics as to how things would unfold during their sit-down and that it was intended as a way to get their reactions to what happened.


The second season is still on the books as premiering Sept. 5; the network has wrapped the re-editing of the premiere episode. In the original version, Taylor is shown shopping for lingerie in an attempt to spice up her marriage and she later becomes emotional when discussing her attempt at marriage counseling.


A representative for Bravo would not elaborate on whether the scenes remained in the final cut.

Bethenny Frankel Buys $4.9 Million TriBeCa Condo

BusinessInsider.com:

Bethenny Frankel, the former “Real Housewives of New York” castmember, turned solo reality TV breakout star with “Bethenny Ever After,” turned alcohol and product-pushing millionaire, is moving on up in the New York City real estate game with her recent purchase of a new $4,995,000 home in NYC’s TriBeCa neighborhood.


According to the New York Post, Frankel is packing up her famous brood that includes husband Jason Hoppy and baby Bryn and moving to a bigger, fancier home at 195 Hudson Street. This is the same building where Jay-Z and Beyonce married in a super secret Penthouse ceremony a few years back. For those Frankel followers, Bethenny talked non-stop about moving to California on the last season of the reality series that also bears her name. Looks like they’ve decided to continue to live (and film!) in the Big Apple.


While it’s likely this new abode will become the location for next season’s show and we’ll get the inside view, let’s dig into the on-paper details on her new home. It’s an enormous (not a word you hear very often in NYC real estate), corner unit with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 11’3 ceilings. 16 large windows line the walls, opening the home up to spectacular New York City views.

RELATED: Bethenny Frankel: 'I'm Too Thin'

Russell Armstrong's Business Associate Commits Suicide Just 24 hours After He Did

Dailymail.com:

There has been another shocking twist in the death of Russell Armstrong.


Alan Schram, a business associate and friend of the late Real Housewives of Beverly Hills co-star, also killed himself just 24 hours after Russell was found dead.


Alan's remains were reportedly discovered on August 16, outside of his parked car on Mulholland Drive in Los Angeles.


He had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was found just a few blocks from where Russell died.


The L.A. County Coroner later concluded that Alan's death was a suicide.


Alan, a managing partner of Wellcap, a hedge fund based in Los Angeles, also wrote about finance for the Huffington Post.


According to Huffingtonpost.com, he founded Wellcap Partners in 2000.


The website says he served as an officer in the Israeli Air Force and is a veteran of the Gulf War.


Alan was a graduate of UCLA's prestigious Anderson School of Management.


TMZ reports that Alan and Russell were both part of an exclusive group called Tiger 21, an organization of high net-worth business people, even though Russell was having major money problems.


The entertainment website says Taylor and some of the other Real Housewives stars were heard talking about how shocked they were that the two men killed themselves at Russell's funeral.

RELATED: Taylor Armstrong's mother-in-law buries hatchet, invites her to Russell Armstrong's Texas funeral

Michaele and Tareq Salahi Sued By Montel Williams

TMZ.com:

Montel Williams is threatening legal action against no one's favorite couple -- Michaele and Tareq Salahi -- accusing them of using his name to promote an upcoming event.


The Salahis are planning a charitable event next month to celebrate the reopening of their Oasis Winery in Virginia -- and, apparently, they've listed Montel as one of their celebrity guests.


That's news to Montel -- because his rep tells TMZ, "Montel doesn't support the Salahis, doesn't know them and did not give them permission to use his name." He says the event organizers also, falsely, announced that Montel's MS Foundation is involved


The rep says a cease and desist letter was fired off to the Salahis today -- demanding they stop using Montel's name and foundation -- and we're told both have since been removed from the website promoting the event.


The Salahis are pleading ignorance ... telling TMZ they had no knowledge Montel's name was on the site.

RELATED: Are Tareq and Michaele Salahi Losing Oasis Winery At Bankruptcy Auction?

Ashley Holmes' Dad Matt Arrested For Arson, Insurance Fraud And Money Laundering

RadarOnline.com:

The legal troubles never stop for the Real Housewives -- do they?


John Madison “Matt” Holmes -- the father of Real Housewives of New Jersey daughter Ashlee Holmes (her mom is Jacqueline Laurita) -- was arrested in Texas for arson, insurance fraud and money laundering in connection with a suspected arson back in March, and RadarOnline.com has all the details.


“Matt” Holmes and his wife, Jodi Sue Holmes, were arrested in Parker County, Texas on June 2 and had to come up with a huge bail -- $225,000 for John and $75,000 for Jodi Sue.


A fire destroyed their home in March and Holmes told the Fire Marshall Investigator that he was at the house about 30 to 45 minutes before the firefighters were called to the property. However, a witness came forward and said Holmes started the fire in the house using kerosene and gasoline, according to Weatherforddemocrat.com.


The couple received $429,000 in insurance money from their house fire, but police allege that Jodi knew about the arson and that the couple used the insurance money to make purchases that included plastic surgery and a $40,000 diamond ring.


The Fire Marshall Investigator, Ken Dabbs, told Weatherforddemocrat.com that they were working with the FBI on the case.


Ashlee took to Twitter to defend her dad. “FYI- my parents have NOT been indicted..this whole thing was started by a disgruntled employee..they are INNOCENT &that’s all i have to say.”


“Matt” Holmes recently appeared on the Bravo reality show to stage an intervention for his daughter.

Kim Richards Headed To 'Dancing With The Stars'?

Hope they have a doc nearby in case she shows up wasted one night:

Will the child star turned Real Housewife of Beverly Hills be donning her dancing shoes for this season of Dancing with the Stars? A source close to the ABC show tells Celebuzz that Kim Richards has been practicing her shimmy shake for TV!


We hear the mother of four has been rehearsing her moves in the studio and could be in the lineup when the cast is announced next week. After what she says has been a rough year, it looks like she’s on the road to a resurgence and recovery!


Kim, who stars on RHOBH with her sister Kyle Richards, is a former child star who appeared in numerous Disney films such as Escape to Witch Mountain. She also appeared on a slew of TV shows such as Dukes of Hazzard and The Love Boat. She is also aunt to Paris and Nicky Hilton.


Although it was uncertain if she would return to Housewives this year, it was recently announced that she and Kyle would both be back for season two. Maybe Kim will be adding yet another TV show to her lengthy resume!

Kelly Bensimon Stops By "Good Day New York"

Kelly Bensimon: MyFoxNY.com

Celebrity-Gossip.net:

Tending to promotional duties, Bravo darling and mogul-in-the-making Kelly Bensimon stopped by "Good Day New York" this morning (August 25).


Showing off her super-svelte physique, the 43-year-old reality show stunner donned a body-hugging black mini-dress, chunky black and gold jewelry pieces and a pair of bright orange peep-toe pumps for her press stop.


Readying the release of her fashion accessories line, Kelly, the September cover girl for Shape magazine sported some of her stylish new offerings - of which she hinted will debut in major department stores in the coming months.


When asked if she'll be returning to "Real Housewives of New York City" next season, the leggy mom of two said she'd love to, and even dished that she's invited some of her closest gal pals to audition for a spot on the show!

Beverly Hills Housewives Rally Around Taylor Armstrong at Russell's Funeral

USmagazine.com:

Taylor Armstrong was surrounded by loved ones -- including her Real Housewives of Beverly Hills castmates -- at a Wednesday funeral service for Russell, her late, estranged husband.


One of two private services was held early Wednesday evening at the Church of the Hills-Forest Lawn in the Hollywood Hills, where Taylor, 40, was consoled by her pals Lisa Vanderpump, Adrienne Maloof-Nassif and husband Dr. Paul Nassif, plus Kyle and Kim Richards. Entertainment Tonight reports that Cedric Martinez, a former houseguest of the Vanderpumps, was turned away from the event (Martinez had an ugly falling out with the Vanderpumps last year).


The funeral was not filmed.


As reported by Us Weekly, Russell's body was cremated, and his ashes were divided between Taylor and Russell's parents. A second service is planned in his native Texas.


Venture capitalist Russell, 47, was found dead at a private L.A. residence on Aug. 15 after taking his own life. He leaves behind Kennedy, his 5-year-old daughter with Taylor, plus two older sons from previous relationships.

Cynthia Bailey Talks Marriage And Children

Danielle Staub's Past Set As Fall Series

NYPost.com:

Somebody warn Danielle Staub, the “Real Housewives of New Jersey” misfit, that her story is about to become a new TV series.


The out-of-print crime book, “Cop Without a Badge,” that came back to haunt her -- outlining her past arrest for drug and kidnapping charges -- has been put into development by a major Hollywood studio, according to a new posting yesterday on IMDB, the show-business Internet directory.


Sony Pictures, producers of “Seinfeld,” “Breaking Bad” and “Damages,” is shopping the series to several networks for a fall 2012 start.


The book is about former con-man Kevin Maher, who was recruited out of prison in the 1980s to become an undercover informant for the New York Police Department and FBI.


Danielle -- then living under her birth name, Beverly Merrill -- was Maher’s girlfriend during those years. He met her in Miami while she was out on bail on drug and kidnapping charges, according to the book.


No stars will be hired until at least early next year, when Sony is set to make a pilot of the series.


The book -- which includes a grainy-but-unmistakable mug shot of Danielle -- had been long out of print until one of the New Jersey “Housewives” reportedly found it in a local library.


It became one of the major bones of contention in the reality show’s first season when the matriarch “Housewife” Caroline Manzo brandished the book at a dinner party with Danielle. Because of Danielle’s sordid past outlined in it, she was not allowed to join their social circle, the “Housewives” said.


The TV series is set to be written by veteran TV writer David Black, a “Law & Order” alumnus with a list of credits that goes back to “Miami Vice,” and Charles Kipps, a former “Cosby Mysteries” writer and author of the Conor Bard series of mystery books.


Since the “Jersey Housewives” notoriety, the book has been re-published.


Insiders say NBC may be the most likely candidate to pick up the series because it owns Bravo, the cable channel that created the “Real Housewives” franchise.


Danielle left the “Jersey Housewives” series last year.


She spent her final season no longer trying to get into the group of well-to-do Franklin Lakes women but going to war with them at social functions and through the local gossip jungle telegraph system.

Russell Armstrong Stopped Taking Anti-Depression Meds Two Weeks Before Suicide

RadarOnline.com:

Russell Armstrong had been taking anti-depressant medications to control his rage issues, but stopped taking the drugs two weeks before his suicide, RadarOnline.com is exclusively reporting.


Russell had been taking the drugs for several months prior to his suicide.


Russell was found hanging at a friend's Mulholland Drive mansion last week - his memorial is scheduled for Wednesday.


"Russell had been doing so well when he was on the anti-depressants. He was prescribed the meds to control his rage issues. Russell stopped taking the meds two weeks before his suicide," a source close to the situation tells RadarOnline.com.


Taylor had encouraged her estranged husband to stay on the anti-depressants. "Taylor was very supportive of him taking the meds. All of a sudden about two weeks ago, Russell stopped taking the meds though," the insider says.


Ed Winter, Assistant Coroner for Los Angeles tells us:"No medication bottles for Mr. Armstrong were recovered from the scene."

RELATED: Real Housewives of Beverly Hills: Scrap the Show, Says PEOPLE TV Critic

Bethenny Frankel Lands Hosting Gig On New Talk Show

HuffPo.com:

Bethenny Frankel has always been the girl who knows when it's time to leave a party -- and when it comes to her fame-making network, that time is now. Bravo's fast-talking sweetheart, who won audiences over on "The Real Housewives of New York" as well as her own spin-off series, has been inducted as the newest host of a forthcoming Telepictures talk show project -- in which Ellen DeGeneres is also involved.


“Telepictures couldn’t be happier with the pilot Bethenny shot. They know they have discovered the next great talk show host and it's Bethenny,” a TV insider tells me. “This is 100 percent on the fast track. Plus, with Ellen behind her this will be huge.”


But with the next step in Frankel's amazing career about to take off, she is finally getting ready to say goodbye to the network that made her a star.


“Bravo has been good to Bethenny but at the same time, Bethenny has been good to Bravo,” a friend of the reality star tells me. “This is business and making the right move for her future. She will always be grateful for everything they have done but at the same time, after the tragic news of the suicide of a cast member of the Beverly Hills 'Housewives,' she doesn’t want to be part of an organization that rewards bad behavior.”


The new season of Frankel’s solo Bravo reality show (which will run under the new title, "Bethenny Goes L.A.") will debut later this year, but if everything goes as planned, expect it to be her last.

Not surprised at all by this news, always figured a talk show would be a good spot for Bethenny.

Real Housewives of New York City Delays Filming

EOnline.com:

The Real Housewives of New York City is going to be fashionably late this season.


Production on the fifth season of the Bravo series has been pushed back due to some scheduling issues, E! News confirmed Monday.


The NYC matrons also got bumped earlier this year when shooting on season four ran long and their February season premiere was pushed back to April in favor of the series premiere of The Real Housewives of Miami.


Coming on the heels of the death in the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills family, the new delay of course prompted speculation that the two are connected...


Which they are not.


"The shoot schedule for RHNYC was pushed due to production details that needed to be finalized and there is absolutely no correlation between RHNYC and RHBH production concerns," a source connected to the show assures E! News.

Is Jacqueline Laurita Leaving Real Housewives of New Jersey?

Rumorfix.com:

In our latest article from Real Housewives expert and star blogger LynnNChicago, RumorFix breaks some shocking exclusive news about Jacqueline Laurita!


“It is confirmed that Jacqueline Laurita is now filming her LAST season of the Real Housewives of New Jersey.


Jacqueline’s six-year contract is still in full force and effect and she is now filming limited scenes for Season Four but she does not want to return for Season Five. She just wants to have her normal life back and she’s hoping that Bravo will allow her to break her contract for the remaining two seasons.


Bravo is filming the next season of the Real Housewives of New Jersey right now even before this current season is finished airing. That is highly unusual for the network but they have to film while the storylines are continuing to brew between Sister’s in Law Teresa Giudice and Melissa Gorga, but this will be it for Jacqueline Laurita.


This is a first for any Housewives series as no Housewife has ever walked away voluntarily. Jacqueline’s daughter Ashley Holmes will not be appearing on Season five either and will only be seen in one or two scenes of Season Four, provided Bravo doesn’t cut her out altogether. While Ashley also is under a 6-year contract, Bravo has been allowing Ashley to slowly walk away from the show.”

Sorry but until I hear this from Jacqueline, I'm not buying it.

Alexis Bellino RIPS Tabloid: 'I'm NOT Going Broke!'

TMZ.com:

Alexis Bellino from "Real Housewives of Orange County" is out for justice -- threatening a legal FIRESTORM ... after a tabloid rag claimed she was going broke.


It's all over an issue of In Touch Weekly that came out earlier this month -- the cover of which shows a picture of Alexis, over the caption "Bankrupt!" ... but it gets worse.


Inside the magazine, the article reads, "Bankrupt! Evicted! Foreclosed! Housewives Are Going Broke" -- continuing, "After selling off her home at a fraction of its cost to avoid foreclosure, Alexis Bellino still refuses to admit she and her husband ... have money troubles."


But Alexis claims it's all BS -- and her lawyer fired off a nasty cease and desist letter on Thursday, demanding In Touch retract its "patent, malicious, and libelous comments."


According to the letter, Alexis is "in great financial health" -- and if In Touch doesn't retract its comments ... she'll sue. So far, no word back from In Touch.

Lisa Wu Hartwell Splits From Husband Ed

Wow, this is shocking, they always came off as the couple who had it the most together:

Real Housewives of Atlanta recurring guest Lisa Wu, who appeared on season one and two as a cast member, and husband, former NFL linebacker Ed Hartwell, have split. Western New York fans of Real Housewives of Atlanta can catch reruns of the hit show on Bravo (DirecTv channel 237 in Buffalo).


Seems a fan of NeNe Leakes' Facebook page was tipped off when she saw that NeNe and Ed Hartwell were Facebook friends. The fan clicked on his page and it said he was separated. The fan wrote in to the blog 'Straight from the A' looking for confirmation. The blogger tweeted Lisa Wu, (@1LisaWu) who responded:


"Sadly. We r seperated but wld NEVER b over money. That is so far from the truth. Wish ppl cld respect ppl's privacy during time like these."


The blogger goes on to say that Lisa wasn't wearing her wedding band at the opening of The Green Room on August 18, 2011. Wu and Hartwell have a four year old son, Ed Hartwell, Jr.

Danielle Staub Contemplated Suicide, Talks Russell Armstrong

Yunno, the prostitution-whore actually talks some sense here:

Russell Armstrong Memorial Set For Wednesday At Forest Lawn

RadarOnline.com:

A memorial service for Russell Armstrong has been scheduled for Wednesday, RadarOnline.com is exclusively reporting.


Family, friends, and costars from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills will gather at the Church of the Hills at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills to celebrate his life.


That's the same church where Brittany Murphy was memorialized after her sudden death in 2009.


As RadarOnline.com has been exclusively reporting, there's been a war of words between Russell's estranged wife and now widow, Taylor Armstrong, and his family ever since his shocking suicide Monday night.


It's not yet clear if any of Russell's family will attend the 3 pm ceremony. They have planned their own memorial in Texas.


Armstrong has been cremated, and his remains are reportedly being split between the two sides.


Taylor and Armstrong were in the early stages of divorce, but because it had not been finalized, she was still the legal "next of kin" when he died, and entitled to make all of Russell's final arrangements.

Alexia Echevarria's 13-Year-Old Son Frankie Badly Injured In Car Accident

RadarOnline.com:

Tragedy continues to plague the women of Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise.


Frankie, the 13-year-old son of Alexia Echevarria, the blonde bombshell star of the Miami franchise, is in the ICU following a horrific car accident on Sunday and she has been by his side for days RadarOnline.com has learned.


The boy underwent surgery Thursday and his dire situation is described as “very bad” according to the Miami Herald.


Alexia Tweeted about his hospital stay late Thursday night. “Frankie's pelvic surgery went well today thanks to God and all your prayers. He is stable and getting stronger day by day.”


The cause of the accident is unknown, but it was raining on Sunday. Frankie was a passenger in a car and the name of the driver has not been released.


Alexia thanked people for their support and said “your prayers are helping Frankie and our family be strong! Much love.”

Bravo Will Reedit 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' After Death Of Russell Armstrong

Really, did they have any other choice?

Bravo has opted to reedit footage from the second season of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" in light of the recent death of featured husband Russell Armstrong, Showtracker has confirmed. It's still unclear if the premiere date, originally set for Sept. 5, will be moved.


A spokesperson from Bravo declined to specify how exactly the footage will be rejiggered (if Armstrong's appearance will be eliminated completely or if his involvement will be restructured and marginalized).


The network's president, Frances Berwick, told Variety, "Contrary to what is being reported, we have not made a decision to change our original premiere date but we are in the process of reediting the show."


Armstrong was found dead at a Mulholland Drive home on Monday night after hanging himself. His death prompted many to wonder how the network would move forward with the season, given Armstrong's role in wife Taylor's storyline. Much of the second season was supposed to chronicle the couple as their marital woes played out; Taylor filed for divorce in July.


The network's announcement comes after family members already expressed their views on how the situation should be handled. A nephew of Armstrong appeared on "Good Morning America" earlier in the week saying footage of the 47-year-old should be edited out. Armstrong's attorney, Ronald Richards, told ShowTracker that Armstrong's mother and father not only want footage of Armstrong taken out, but also footage of those associated with him -- which would include Taylor and the couple's daughter Kennedy.

Chris Laurita Is The Biggest Reason Ashley Holmes Is Such An Ungrateful Boor

That's my opinion anyway. Chris Laurita can scream "it's none of your fucking business" all he wants, but the way he allows Ashley to walk all over and disrespect his wife is beyond stupid. Who in their right mind rewards consistently bad, boorish behavior with an SUV? And Ashley calling her mother Jackie a 'bitch' right in front of Chris' face? Any other fool would've started packing her bags right there, kicked Ashley out and let the ungrateful ingrate walk her dumb ass to California (tho I'm sure Ashley would just hit up her pops for the airfare). Bottom line, Ashley Holmes is an adult, if going to California is what she wants just let her go already. Chris and Jackie have two sons to raise and they've both done more than a enough for Ashley. No one's saying disown her fat ass, just be done with the drama already and let her go fend to the world own her own.

Melissa Gorga: Teresa Likes My Single!

Why Melissa keeps going out of her way to appease Teresa is beyond me. Teresa Giudice lives in serious denial, she rarely listens to anyone and unless the cops come and take him away, there's no way she's ever leaving her nasty criminal of a husband. Melissa deserves credo for taking the high road, but caring what Teresa thinks about her music is just dumb:

The bickering between Teresa Giudice and her sister-in-law, Melissa Gorga, never seems to stop for long during the current season of The Real Housewives of New Jersey. But there's at least one topic that the battling moms seem to be unexpectedly agreeing on (for now): Gorga's budding music career!


Us' Jennifer Peros caught up with Gorga just after the housewife's debut single, "On Display," was recently released (listen to a radio remix above!) to get her take on how it came to be -- and Giudice's initial reaction upon hearing it.


UsMagazine.com: What is the name of the song?


Melissa Gorga: The song is called "On Display," and it's dropping on August 13th. It is a feel-good, dance song. I think people will relate to it because it's about empowerment. I'm on a reality show, so my whole life is on display right now. It's about people looking at you and judging you, but no matter what, you still come out on top and you don't care if they don't like your style or the way you do things. It's a strong, powerful song. I'm super excited about it.


Us: How would you describe your musical style?


MG: It is mixture of dance and pop. I have a soulful ballad coming out, which is surprising to some people. It does have an R&B feel to it, but most of it is dance music.


Us: Were you intimidated to go into the studio for the first time?


MG: Absolutely. My producer, Soul Diggaz has worked with Britney Spears, Beyonce, and Mary J. Blige so I was definitely nervous. It's one thing when you're singing by a piano or you're singing in the shower, but when you're singing in the studio and you have the headphones on, it is a whole new world. Now that I'm on my fifth song, I've figured it out.


Us: How long have you been singing?


MG: When I was younger, I was always the lead in the school play, I always had the solo, and I was always in the choir. I've been singing my whole life. It was something that I have always wanted to do and I've always had it in the back of my mind. Music is my first love. I put it aside because I got married and had babies. I gave up my dream for my children. It's working out and I thank God everyday.


Us: Do you want to release an album in the future?


MG: It's in the works. We will eventually release an album. I wrote five songs so far. There is also a party song coming out soon.


Us: What is your ultimate career goal?


MG: I would love to go on tour. My ultimate goal would be to play at the VMAs and the Grammys. Who wouldn't want that to happen? I'm taking one step at a time. We're going to see what happens and see who responds. I want it to get bigger and bigger.


Us: How has Joe been throughout this whole process?


MG: My husband has been so supportive. He gave me the push to go for it and try. If I thought in any way that it would hurt my marriage, I wouldn't do it. My husband built a private studio in my house so I can put my kids to bed at night and go down and work, which is priceless to me. Whenever I want to record, I don't have to spend hours in the city. I can be right in my own home. That was probably the best part of it all.


Us: Who is your favorite artist?


MG: It's hard to choose one. I love Jennifer Lopez's style and music. She makes that whole R&B/dance so sexy. I love Christina Aguilera's voice. I also love Pink and Katy Perry.


Us: Is there someone that you're looking to do a duet with?


MG: I would love to get Pitbull on one of my albums. When he is on the front of an album it's pretty great. I don't know if we could make that happen. Hopefully one day.


Us: What do you think of the other Housewives singers?


MG: A lot of them do it for fun and have a good time with it. They all write songs that are geared towards the Housewives and their lives on the show. I'm separating mine from the Housewives. It's more about Melissa Gorga than Melissa Gorga, the housewife. I don't hate on any of them. I think if they can make a song, then good for them.


Us: Are you preparing yourself for any media or criticism?


MG: I saw Simon perform at the premiere party at the Brownstone this year. I don't think they take themselves seriously. They are entertaining and go along with the whole scene. Of course, I'm ready for them to say, 'Oh, here we go, another Housewife song.' As they hear more of my music they are going to realize that I’m not just making one song because I’m a housewife. It's been a dream of mine since I was young girl. There's a part of me that thinks they'll be pleasantly surprised.


Us: What does your extended family think of it?


MG: They all love it. Both of my sisters cried. Everyone cried when they first heard it. They couldn't believe that it was me. They didn't think that I was going to make a real song. People had the chills. Everybody's response was incredible including Teresa. She loved it.


Us: Was Teresa happy for you?


MG: When she heard it she told me that she liked it and it was really good.

Bravo Execs Hold 'Crisis' Meeting At Adrienne Maloof's Mansion To Discuss Russell Armstrong Suicide

RadarOnline.com:

Bravo TV executives called a mandatory "crisis" cast meeting Wednesday, at Adrienne Maloof's mansion, to discuss the suicide of co-star Taylor Armstrong's estranged husband Russell, RadarOnline.com is exclusively reporting.


"It was a somber meeting," an insider shares. "Everyone in the room was still in mourning and simply shocked by Russell's death."


We're told Bravo asked the housewives to say little to nothing at all to the press about Russell's suicide.


RadarOnline.com also learned that producers are still trying to figure out how and if they will air footage of Taylor and Russell, especially since the couple were working on their marriage through counseling -- all on camera.


"The people at Bravo just want to do the appropriate thing," the source insists. "Their first priority is being respectful to Russell, Taylor and their families."

RELATED: Taylor Armstrong Battling In-Laws Over Russell's FINAL Resting Place

Russell Armstrong's Nephew: Suicide ‘The Last Thing We Saw Coming’

Taylor Armstrong Was Hospitalized After Husband Russell Allegedly Hit Her In The Face

Russell Armstrong's Ex-Wife Says 'Taylor Drove Him' To Suicide

Taylor Armstrong Planning Estranged Husband Russell’s Memorial

RadarOnline.com:

Taylor Armstrong is planning her estranged husband, Russell Armstrong’s memorial, RadarOnline.com is exclusively reporting.


Russell committed suicide by hanging himself, and his body was found at a friend's house on Monday.


Russell's powerhouse attorney, Ronald Richards, exclusively tells RadarOnline.com: "I have been notified by Taylor's attorney that she is making the memorial arrangements for Russell."


The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star is in the early stages of planning the memorial. "Taylor wants to plan the memorial for Russell, after all, they were married. I know that Russell's mother wants to take his body back to Texas and have him buried though — but, that will be for Taylor and Russell's mom to figure out," Richards tells RadarOnline.com.


Meanwhile, Richards says that the "memorial will probably be next week. It's just an incredibly sad time for everyone."

RELATED: Taylor Armstrong Injured 4 Days Before Russell's Suicide

Russell Armstrong Autopsy Complete Suicide by Hanging

Russell Armstrong Asked for Xanax Before Death

Russell Armstrong Battled Depression, Had Huge Financial Problems Before Suicide

Yahoo.com:

The apparent suicide of Russell Armstrong — the estranged husband of Bravo's "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" cast member Taylor Armstrong — has sparked a massive amount of interest in his life, family, and business dealings.


While the details of Armstrong's death are still forthcoming, the late investor's history of financial ups and downs has been well documented. Armstrong was a venture capitalist who had apparently fallen on hard times.


According to celebrity site TMZ, Armstrong's lawyer, Ronald Richards, remarked that his client had large debt problems. According to Richards, Armstrong's "credit cards weren't working. … As far as a will, even if he does have a will, they don't have any assets, so I'm not sure what there would be left to leave." But the worries weren't only financial. Russell was also depressed about his looming divorce.


Last month, Taylor told People magazine that she and Russell had had a series of arguments. She accused Russell of shoving her. Russell told People that the show "pushed us to the limit." That comment and several others are sure to lead to questions about whether the "Real Housewives" program should be canceled. Armstrong, who was 47, leaves behind Taylor, as well as three children.


Before starring on the reality show about pampered wives in posh Beverly Hills, Russell Armstrong worked as a professional investor. According to his official site (which may suffer outages due to massive clicks), "Russell Armstrong has spent the past two decades as an investment banker and venture capitalist, where he has been instrumental in the development of over 200 businesses with early stage funding in excess of $2B dollars."


While that paints a picture of a secure and successful man, Armstrong was actually under considerable financial pressure. In July, he was hit with a $1.5 million lawsuit for breach of contract. The suing company claimed "it had hired him to expand its business but alleged he had misused the funds to redecorate the mansion he shared with his wife."


He also ran afoul of the law in 1997 when he he was convicted of felony tax evasion. Armstrong was sentenced to five years of probation. In 2001, he was accused of "fraud, negligent misrepresentation, statutory securities violations and breach of fiduciary duties." Starcasm.net hosts a PDF of the lawsuit.

By the way, although you know it's bound to happen anyway, let me say that Bravo should not be getting any blame for this tragedy. I'm not aware of any network that forces people to come on their shows. People who sign up for reality TV usually have a good idea of what they're getting into, plus they sign contracts--bottom line it's their choice to have the whole world get a peek of their everyday lives. Don't like reality TV? Think it exploits people? Fine, then don't watch it.

From many accounts Russell Armstrong seemed to be dealing with many personal demons that started way before his wife signed on to be on RHOBH. Did the show contribute to those problems? Maybe so, maybe not. But if they did then Russell Armstrong had no business being on the show (remember, Dina Manzo's husband Tommy never made an appearance on RHONJ) and I'm sure he wouldn't have been happy about Taylor appearing either. But Russell did appear on RHONJ several times and he wantonly spoke to the press as well. That said, while people will be quick to blame Bravo for Russell Armstrong's suicide, that takes away from the fact that the Armstrong's were grown adults who made the choice to appear on RHOBH.

Taylor Armstrong's Husband Russell Commits Suicide

TMZ.com:

Russell Armstrong, the estranged husband of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Taylor Armstrong, was found dead of an apparent suicide ... sources tell TMZ.


Our sources say Armstrong hanged himself. He was found hanging in his bedroom on Mulholland Drive.


We're told L.A. City Fire Department arrived at his home and pronounced him dead at 8:16 PM Monday. Sources say a roommate found Russell and called 911.


We're told authorities have not found a suicide note.


Taylor filed for divorce last month, after she claimed Russell physically abused her. We're told authorities informed her of Russell's death last night.


He was 47 years old.


UPDATE


8:13 AM: Bravo and the cast of "Real Housewives" were unaware of Russell's death. Kyle Richards was distraught when she saw the TMZ post, and Lisa Vanderpump was speechless.


8:38 AM: Camille Grammer just tweeted, "My sympathy and condolences go out to Taylor and Kennedy. My thoughts and prayers are with them."

Wow, this is shocking. Of course, only Taylor knows what really happened between her and Russell, but what I saw on screen last season always kind of creeped me out. And then since last season ended you hear about the Armstrong's being a therapy, getting a divorce and Russell admitting that he hit Taylor before, etc. I guess this is another example of the flip side to reality TV--there are (usually) no scripts, you're actually dealing with real people with real lives. Plus too, Taylor and Russell had a kid together. Wonder if the new season of RHOBH will be delayed now? Either way, how Bravo moves forward from this will be interesting to watch. Meanwhile, condolences to Taylor Armstrong and her family.

Jill Zarin: I'm Not Leaving Real Housewives of NYC

Like we didn't know this already. Jill Zarin may be an evil and manipulative gold-digger who roots for the underdog (as long as you stay far below her level), snitches rumors to the press and posts anonymous comments on blogs, but love her or hate her, even I can admit that RHONYC wouldn't be the same without her:

And Jill is telling you -- she's not going!


After the New York Post's Page Six reported that Jill Zarin was getting the booted from the Real Housewives of New York when season five debuts next year, the redhead reality star set the record straight to Us Weekly on Monday.


"The rumors about Bravo dropping me from The Real Housewives of New York City as well as rumors that I am leaving the show are simply not true," Zarin, 48, told Us.


"Everything that has been reported is simply rumors, gossip and speculation. I personally have been busy with my shapewear line, Skweez Couture and am still very much part of the Bravo family."


Proof that she's sticking around? Zarin is among the housewives who'll be hitting the road on the first-ever Real Housewives Tour announced Monday. She'll appear with Atlanta's NeNe Leakes, NJ's Melissa Gorga and Miami's Marysol Patton in Atlanta, GA on Oct. 15.


Adds fellow housewife Kelly Bensimon to Us about all the casting rumors: "As far as I'm concerned no one knows what's going on," she says. "Every single event, party, house that I go to, there is a woman telling me they're going to be the next housewife!"


"All I can say is that I've had a blast doing it [and] how grateful I am!"

'Real Housewives' To Go On Three-City Tour

Other than Bravo trying to milk all the $$$ they can get from the "Housewives" franchise, this tour makes no sense:

Want to meet the "Real Housewives" of New Jersey or New York?


Bravo is bringing the ladies from their reality show franchise (including Orange County, Atlanta and Beverly Hills) on the road.


Tickets go on sale Aug. 19.


The tour kicks off on Atlantic City, NJ on Oct. 1, and also stops in Chicago and Atlanta.


"Bravo viewers like to truly engage in the shows they are passionate about," says Ellen Stone, Bravo’s senior vice president of marketing in a statement. "With The Real Housewives Live Tour, we are able to give our fans a unique, hands-on experience with their favorite cast members across franchises that they can't experience anywhere else."


Tickets begin at $49.50. Fans can buy the $170-per-ticket "Red Carpet Package," which allows them to walk the red carpet, sit in "premium" seats and attend a pre-show cocktail party hosted by the reality stars.


Tickets will only be sold to those 21 and older in Chicago and Atlanta.

RELATED: Real Housewives Announce Big Tour—but for What, Exactly?

Dina Manzo Debuts Event-Planning Series On HGTV

NorthJersey.com:

She's wearing a second-hand dress — something you'd never have caught her in on "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" — as she orchestrates a party on a budget, a clothing swap where each guest will get a purple tote bag that screams, "Recessionista."


HGTV's "Dina's Party" is a long way from Bravo's "RHONJ" — and that's just the way Dina Manzo likes it.


"This is a grueling schedule, but at least I go home with my soul intact," the Franklin Lakes reality-TV veteran says of her new show, which will officially debut Sept. 10 but gets a sneak preview at 10 tonight. "The other one, you showed up, you had the argument, you went home."


Tonight's "Dina's Party" preview — which follows Manzo's appearance as a guest judge on "HGTV Design Star" — features a cowboy-themed bon voyage bash for Manzo's pal Ron Corning, a former "Good Day New York" co-anchor, who took a TV job in Dallas.


"Basically, we throw fabulous events at people's homes," Manzo says. "In every episode, there's some kind of renovation or transformation."

Michaele and Tareq Salahi Moving To Mansion In Beverly Hills

TMZ.com:

Michaele and Tareq Salahi are finally ready to make the big move -- they're packing up their bags and making the long haul from Virginia ... to a giant mansion in Beverly Hills.


Sources tell TMZ the Salahis are in final negotiations to lease the house pictured above for a cool $20,000/month. We're told they've gone over all the particulars with the realtor and will be flying out west to seal the deal next week.


We're told the former "Real Housewives" couple wants to move closer to Hollywood because they feel it will be in the best interest of their budding entertainment careers.


According to our sources, with plans in the works to have a baby ... the Salahis liked this place because it's in a super-safe community and has plenty of space for their growing family.


Also, the Salahis really enjoy being in a white house.

Jacqueline Laurita's Daughter Ashley Holmes Faces An Intervention

Hollywoodlife.com:

Last season, Jacqueline Laurita’s daughter was in trouble for pulling Danielle Staub’s hair. On the August 14th episode of ‘RHONJ’ Ashley finds herself in more trouble as her family plans an intervention!


The troubled teen has been trying to prove to her family all season she’s mature enough to own a car and live in the Big Apple, but it looks like during tonight’s episode Jacqueline Laurita puts her foot down once and for all.


The family tells Ashley she needs to shape up or else she isn’t going to receive the rewards and privileges she wants.

Camille Grammer Apologises To Kelsey Over Penis Jibe

TMZ.com:

Camille Grammer realizes it really isn't all fair in love and war, because she now regrets the comment she made about Kelsey's junk.


As you know, Camille said -- referring to Kelsey -- "Big hands, big feet, big disappointment."


Now she's given TMZ a statement, trying to take it back: "Some joking remarks I made to Kyle Richards got picked up and caused my ex-husband great embarrassment and for that I sincerely apologize. While the media added words and blew it out of proportion, I acknowledge my part in this and regret my remarks."


But it's not all nice, because Camille goes on, complaining she wants to settle their differences "but Kelsey just seems to want to fight this." Camille adds, "I offered a 50/50 physical split with joint custody and was soundly rejected."


Camille says, "Now he will only communicate through lawyers and others and I fear the message we're sending our children."


Small penis comments create big problems.

Real Housewives of Miami Will Return for Season 2

WetPaint.com:

Despite its low ratings and less-than-stellar cast, The Real Housewives of Miami has been renewed for a second season.


Sunshine State housewife Alexia Echevarria confirmed at Sean John’s fragrance launch party earlier this week that she’s inked a deal with Bravo to star in the franchise’s sophomore season.


The next Miami go-round will have some major changes that will shake things up a bit, like the absence of Scottie Pippen’s ex-wife, Larsa. Reportedly, Pippen wasn’t asked to return because she’s not an official Miami resident. Guess Bravo is finally cracking down on that whole location thing. Uh oh! RHoBH blondies Camille, Taylor, and Kim actually live outside of the Beverly Hills zip. Maybe they should consider a move!

Good to know RHOM is coming back. Except for there being too much show time for the monstrosity that is Marysol Patton's mother, I actually enjoyed watching the show. I think it only got bad ratings because Bravo didn't feature the right storylines and the first season was just way too short.

Danielle Staub Explains Why She Went Back To Stripping

RealityTea.com:

Former Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Staub managed to do the unthinkable earlier this year, which is shocking the public.


Back in May, TMZ posted photos of Danielle, who was a prostitution whore stripper and an escort in her younger days, stripping for Scores Gentleman’s Club in New York. It was revealed that the 48-year-old mother of two had decided to become a stripper again… at age 48. A day after those pictures came out, Danielle revealed she had quit stripping and was seeking psychological help. Well today, she is now revealing the reasons for her choices.


“That’s in litigation right now,” says Danielle (Scores filed a $375,000 lawsuit against her for breach of contract). “I wasn’t handled properly, I’m going to put it that way. But I wasn’t there to do what ended up being and if you look at my eyes all I can say is you can see something is wrong. Something went very wrong.”


The deal with Scores was a three-year contract with the strip club to make live appearances at the clothes optional establishment.


A friend of Danielle’s also defends her to the Huffington Post. “Why as a celebrity does she need to walk back into that kind of stuff?” the friend who considers Danielle a big star, asks. “She already had a show lined up. She left one show and was going to another. She didn’t need to do that.”

Melissa Gorga Releases New Song "On Display"

Celebuzz.com:

Another one of the Real Housewives is attempting to break into the music world; this time it is New Jersey’s Melissa Gorga, who released her new single, “On Display”, to On-Air with Ryan Seacrest today. Gorga told the host, “I just think that everyone is going to be pleasantly surprised. It’s good, I like it. That was my first, as they go on they get better and better and better.”


The lyrics talk about living life in the spotlight and how people want her to fail, especially the chorus of: “On display, each and every day, everybody is waiting on me to fall, everybody is waiting on me to crawl, but they can keep on waiting on me.” Gorga has showed her toughness, both mentally and physically, on the Real Housewives of New Jersey, so these words come as no surprise to anybody who has seen her in action. Listen to the song above and let us know what you think!


She is not the first housewife to release a song and try to transfer from TV to music, as Atlanta’s Kim Zolciak released the infamous “Tardy for the Party” and its follow-up, “Google Me”, as well as Countess LuAnn of the New York series and her “hit”, “Money Can’t Buy You Class.” Even controversial Jersey housewife Danielle Staub took a shot at the singing gig when she performed an original song called “Real Close” on Watch What Happens Live.


Compared to these songs, we think Melissa’s is definitely one of the best, but only time will tell if she can start a legitimate music career, which none of her previous Housewives counterparts have been able to do.

Taylor Armstrong Talks Split From Husband

EOnline.com:

As if the ladies of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills didn't have enough drama to deal with, try going through a divorce on top of all that catfighting.


"Unfortunately for me this year, there were a lot more tears, a lot more pain," Taylor Armstrong exclusively told us about her recent split with husband Russell Armstrong at this week's grand opening of Kendra Scott Jewelry in Beverly Hills.


How's their 5-year-old daughter Kennedy holding up in all this?


"I know it's going to be hard for me to watch a lot of it," Armstrong says of the series' sophomore season. "It's been such an emotional ride for me this year. And it's one thing to experience it, but then to watch it again on television and know that millions of other people are watching, it's going to be tough."


As for daughter Kennedy, Armstrong says, "She's doing great."


"I'm out and I'm spending a lot of time with my daughter right now," she said. "We're just trying to really take it day by day right now and trying to keep her life as consistent as possible and make sure she knows that she's surrounded by so much love and we're so fortunate that she really is."

Kayte Grammer to Camille Grammer: Kelsey's Penis Didn't Like You Either!

Wow, this is getting good, really good:

Kelsey Grammer's wife, Kayte Grammer, has come out swinging at Camille Grammer, for opening her big mouth and claiming Kelsey has a small penis.


Kayte tells TMZ, "Perhaps the fault lies not so much with the member in question but rather with the inspiration at hand."


There's clearly plenty of hatred to go around, because the Grammer camp has not publicly commented on the bitter, ongoing Grammer divorce -- until now.


Kayte is responding to Camille's comment, "Big hands, big feet, big disappointment."

Clearly this Kayte chick doesn't play. And while Camille does sound bitter for talking about Kelsey's penis size in public, I don't get how Kayte, as a woman, can't sympathize somewhat with Camille's pain at finding out her husband was having an affair. That or Katye's just a total bitch.

RELATED: Kelsey Grammer Has Micro Penis, Says Ex-Wife Camille (Video Link)

Jill Zarin Contemplates Leaving 'The Real Housewives Of New York'

HuffPo.com:

She's the queen bee of New York City but this socialite's days on the small screen may be numbered. On Saturday night, Jill Zarin and her husband, Bobby enjoyed dinner at Savanna's in Southampton where he was overheard telling Jill she should not return for another season of "The Real Housewives of New York."


“Bobby made it clear that it was Jill’s decision but couldn’t understand what she would have to gain from returning to a fifth season,” a friend at the next table tells me. “Her daughter is in college and it’s time to take her parents on the cruise of a lifetime they have always wanted to do. Plus the success of her Skweez Couture and other deals she has coming up are a full-time job.”


Jill, who doesn’t need the $265,000 a season each lady earns, has never been the last to leave a party but knows that when it is time to make her exit, it's best to do so on a high note.


“The 'New York' show has been super successful but next season will never top the numbers they have now and after the failures of D.C. and Miami shows, everyone thinks the high point of the franchise is behind them not in front of them,” a Bravo insider tells me. “Everything has to come to an end. And the reunion show Part 2 ratings were very disappointing.”


A spokesperson for Jill did confirm that she was at the Southampton restaurant with her husband but declined to comment on whether Jill had made any decision about her future with the show. However, I was told that her shapewear line was picked up by major department stores during market week last week and to expect some big news about her other products in the upcoming weeks.

LOl! The funniest part of this article is the idea of Jill finally going away somewhere with Bobby or better yet, Jill with a fulltime job. I mean, isn't Jill Zarin always going on or coming back from extravagant trip that most of the rest of the world can't afford? Then too, doesn't the classic narcissist that is Jill Zarin do the 'maybe-I'm-staying, maybe I'm leaving' thing every year? Right.

Real Housewives of New York Cast To Be Decided This Week?

RealityTea.com:

In other news, Huffington Post columnist Rob Shuter tweeted days ago that the Real Housewives of New York City will find out this week who will be returning or getting the axe.


Filming on the new season will reportedly begin by labor day. And judging from recent comments by Andy Cohen, it’s safe to assume there will be a major shake-up with the cast.


Rob also tweeted last week that two of the RHONY housewives are so desperate to remain on the show that they told Bravo they are willing to take a huge pay “cut in $270,000 per season they make.” Wowzers. Of course, we will report on the latest the minute the cast announcement is made.

If anyone leaves please let it be Cindy Barshop.

Brandi Glanville And Camille Grammer Are BFFs

RadarOnline.com:

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Camille Grammer can breathe easier now she's no longer the villain on the highly popular show -- those designer shoes have been firmly filled by newcomer Brandi Glanville, yes, Eddie Cibrian’s ex.


In the season two preview trailer, fans see a catfight between Brandi and co-star Kim Richards where Brandi is overheard calling Kim a "b*tch" and accusing her of using "crystal meth."


But, for all the catfights and b*tching, Brandi has found one unlikely ally, last season's bad girl de jour, Camille.


"I like Brandi, and I enjoy her company a lot, actually," Camille tells RadarOnline.com in an exclusive interview. "I think she speaks her mind and she's a riot. She makes no excuses. She says what she feels and I like that genuine realness she has. It's refreshing."


Camille says she and Brandi are firm friends and that they bonded together as both went through very painful and public divorces.

I'll save my opinion on Brandi after I watch the show, but if anyone needed a true friend (besides Kim) on RHOBH it's Camille.

Kyle Richards Warns 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Trailer is 'Tame'

Limelife.com:

Kyle Richards chats one-on-one with LimeLife about the drama Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fans can expect to unfold when the highly-antcipated second season begins on September 5. (Which is only 34 days away, but who's counting?)


When the second season promo trailer hit the Internet last week, viewers couldn't believe how much scandal was packed into the tiny clip, but Richards says it doesn't hold a candle to what the network could have used to promote the new episodes.


"That doesn't even put a dent in it," she said at a press mixer for NBCUniversal's Fall TV Lineup last night. "I was thinking, of all of the things they could have pulled -- they used the mild stuff. I guess they didn't want to overwhelm everyone." Wow. Really?


With all of the Beverly Hills Housewives in attendance at the soiree, we couldn't help but wonder how relationships between the castmates have been holding up since the shocking finale of the first season.


"There's been a lot of shift in the dynamic," admits Richards. "I've gotten to know the girls even better. Some of them at the beginning I knew better than others. Now we all know each other inside and out but the dynamics do shift throughout the season. People that you would be surprised to side with and not speaking and going back and forth. That's definitely prevalent this season."


While it's mostly controversy on the menu for these ladies, the Demi Moore look-a-like says that there will occasionally be lighter fare for fans to enjoy, just don't expect much of it.


"There are some fun things that we do -- some events and traveling and stuff that was fun to do," she says. "Other than that, it's a lot of drama and very emotional. It's very deep. These are not frivolous little problems we're talking about."

Bravo Exec Andy Cohen To Pen Memoir

AHN.com:

Bravo Executive Vice-President and “Watch What Happens Live” host Andy Cohen has signed a book deal.


The 43-year-old, who helped make the cable network a success with hit shows like “Project Runway,” Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List” and “The Real Housewives” franchise, announced Monday that he is about to write his first book about his life experience, reports The Hollywood Reporter.


“It'll be a memoir, of sorts, about my intersections with pop culture over the years, from growing up in front of the TV as a kid in St. Louis to my years at CBS News, all the way up to today,” Cohen said on his blog. “The stories I've been saving up are funny and improbable and really define who I am today.”


The executive, who is gay, will also discuss his journey towards coming to terms with his sexuality, his beginnings with CBS news as a reporter and producer, and his current position as head of original programming at Bravo.


“This is something I've always wanted to do and, if you've read this blog much over the past seven years, you know that writing is something I enjoy,” he wrote. “And, yes, I will write every word of it, I don't know how I could settle for anything less than writing it myself. I started last weekend and have much work to do (understatement) before it comes out next summer.”

LuAnn De Lesseps’ European Vacation

RadarOnline.com:

This vacation looks tres chic!


Real Housewives of New York City star Countess LuAnn de Lesseps went on a luxurious European vacation this summer, and only RadarOnline.com has the exclusive photos from her fabulous get away.


“We started our summer vacation in Paris on Fourth of July weekend,” LuAnn said about the trip where she was accompanied by her French beau, Jacques Azoulay.


“We love Paris, and Jacques’ family lives there.”


The Countess and her gorgeous guy hit all the hot spots, Paris, Corsica, Bonifacio and her snapshots captured the fun she had.


“The kids joined us too. Victoria started a summer program to study art history in Paris, and Noel went on to Switzerland to spend time with his dad,” LuAnn shared.


She joked about the “sites” she saw on her vacation too.


“The marketplace in Bonifacio is amazing. I’ve never seen so many sausages just hanging around!”

Teresa Giudice: My Cousin Kathy Needs to Stop Lying

Celebuzz.com:

I was at the shore all weekend with Joe, my girls, and my friends — two of my friends from high school came to visit me — so I didn’t get to watch this episode until it aired on a repeat!


As I’m typing this, I’m watching Andy on Watch What Happens Live. Whoever that John Hickey guy is, I love you! Thank you to whoever voted to spend Christmas with the Giudice family (Andy, it’s “judyCHAY”! I’ll sort you out next week in the clubhouse… get my bellini ready!). But this year, I would’ve voted to spend with the Manzos too — my whole family was sick! You saw poor Gia throwing up, but you didn’t see Joe doing the same thing. We all had a stomach bug. You smile and push through it because it’s Christmas, but we were not feeling good that morning, especially Joe. I love that even though he was so sick, he still videotaped the girls while he was laying on the couch.


We were up so late too. We went to Midnight Mass, then came over to our house and we ate some more (looking back, this year the second round maybe wasn’t such a good idea…). We probably only had like 2 hours of sleep. So yes, that plus being sick didn’t make Joe super happy. And he was not happy seeing how unhappy I was about Christmas Eve. Yes, this time he did call Melissa a “witch.” You’ve seen my husband on TV for a few years now. You know he’s a straight shooter and he says what he thinks. I have no problem owning it when either me or Joe say something. Last week Joe was not talking about Melissa when she was standing right there. He was talking about Melissa’s sister who pulled his mom’s hair at the Christening. I think they ARE animals for doing that.


But this week, he did say she was a “witch.” Our kids weren’t around when he said it, I didn’t like it, and I told him not to say it, but it’s certainly not the worst thing Joe could say. I think what Kathy called me at Melissa’s party was a little stronger than that, no?


Here’s why he said it: I was DEVASTATED that Melissa and my brother Joey left our house in the middle of Christmas Eve. My parents were devastated. My kids were devastated. And it came out of the blue. I have never, ever spent Christmas Eve away from my brother and my parents. We always, ALWAYS spend it together. It’s “my” holiday–everyone comes to spend it with me, nobody has to “invite” anybody else. Melissa has Easter, and we do Thanksgiving with our in-laws. My mother actually used to host Christmas Eve, then I took over. We’ve spent a couple of Christmas Eves with Kathy’s family, but a long time ago (the last time she was at my house), always as a group, and it wasn’t our normal thing. Our thing was to be together with my parents. Me and Joey and our families and our parents. I know I’m harping on this, but you have to understand what a big deal this was to my family. And for the first time ever, with no warning, Joey says he’s leaving–before dinner!–because he’s going to Kathy’s house. Never in a million years did I expect that. My husband was right: if he really needed to go to Kathy’s house, he could have stopped there first, had drinks, and then come spent Christmas with his family. But instead, he stopped by, acted like nothing was up, then suddenly tells me he’s leaving. And within minutes of telling us, he’s saying “Pack it up! Pack it up!” It was just so sudden and weird and hurtful.