The Real Housewives Blog: February 2012

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Sheree Whitfield Calls Cynthia “Messy” And Insists She Is A Loyal Friend; Marlo Hampton Speaks Out About Her Arrests; Claims She Is Misunderstood

Mugshot Marlo Hampton is all about clearing her goodish name and promoting herself, now that she has the illustrious and reputable platform of Real Housewives of Atlanta. The notorious Marlo, who certainly is the most notorious Housewife to grace the screens of Atlanta, is answering questions about her questionable past and encouraging us to reserve judgement. Yeah to the right!

Marlo wants you to know she isn’t full of excuses and fully embraces her ex-conn ex-life, but she wants to set the story straight and separate reality from reality TV. “There’s much more to Marlo than the 10 minutes” on the show, Marlo warns.

“I was surprised that they were focusing on my arrests,” Marlo admits. “Phaedra [Parks] with her husband and Sheree [Whitfield] has had her mix-up with the law. I was shocked about Kim [Zolciak] and the way she was talking about a Big Poppa when she dated a married man.”

Marlo says the trouble started in college. That was arrest number one. “While I was in college, that’s when I got into altercations and that was a felony charge. I was just mad at the world,” she explains to Sister 2 Sister. Marlo, apparently, attended University of South Florida and earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Science. Shocked? Yeah, me too!

Then, she was arrested and charged for check fraud. “I mis-balanced my check for the books I was buying. It was one check for me just being in college writing a check for one book. They blew that so out of proportion,” Marlo insists. “I wasn’t the best in math.” It’s called a calculator, m’dear!

Unfortunately, things spiraled from there and next thing she knew she had seven mugshots under her (then Forever 21) belt! “It’s important for people to know I was on house arrest. Four of those were probation violations and not new charges,” Marlo clarifies. Marlo claims in one arrest, the accuser actually defended her to the judge! “She had asked the judge to reduce my sentence and we made peace. We’re fine. We’ve talked several times.” I’m assuming she’s referring to her arrest for aggravated assault.

Marlo’s criminal past prevented her from getting a job so she had to hook up with wealthy sugar daddies so she opened her own business, a clothing store. “When I started taping with the show, I closed the store down.”

Marlo cautions viewers, “Don’t go by just what they see,” because there is definitely more to her than meets the eye! That’s exactly what I’m afraid of.

Moving right along, Sheree has a lot to say lately. Is it because she really, really can’t afford to get fired wants to secure a place in Season 5? Taking to her Bravo Blog, she is dishing on the fight with Marlo, the trip to Africa, and the comments about Kim!

According to Sheree, the tension began at the airport. “Upon seeing Marlo, I knew instantly that there would be some drama, because she was not invited by Phaedra, the host. Why was no one informed that she would be coming on the trip? I knew she felt the need to do something to get attention!”

Sheree claims the dinner party invite debacle occurred when her friend Kevin called last-minute and asked her to include Cynthia in the invitation. “I didn’t think to invite Cynthia [Bailey], because I was sure she wouldn’t attend without NeNe [Leakes], and I certainly wasn’t going to invite Nene. We had not spoken since the argument a few months ago and after the disrespectful way she acted at Kim’s friend’s house in Miami last year, it just wasn’t happening.”

“As we are getting ready for dinner, my friend Kevin calls, who also knows Cynthia and NeNe, and asks me to invite Cynthia to the dinner. Well I did,” Sheree recalls.

And Sheree is accusing Cynthia of pulling a “Taylor Armstrong” and saying things to Marlo behind her back to re-instigate the situation! “Cynthia, Cynthia, Cynthia…messy. I’m not quite sure what the problem was.”

“For Marlo to run over and go from 0 to 60 all because I did not invite her, the person who no one knew was coming (not even the host) and that came with NeNe (the person I don’t speak to), to a party! Really?! Why would she want to go? Why would I want her to go? Why is she so angry? Why is she using hateful, derogatory words? Why would she choose to use that word to describe my friends? I’m not a judgmental person by any means. I love all kinds of people, regardless of their sexual preference.”

Kelsey and Camille Grammer Settle Custody Case

TMZ.com:

Kelsey Grammer and Camille Grammer have ended their custody war ... settling the dispute and doing it amicably ... TMZ has learned.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the case has officially been taken off calendar. Sources connected with the former couple tell TMZ ... Kelsey and Camille have agreed to joint custody of their 2 kids -- 10-year-old Mason and 7-year-old Jude.

We're told the kids will both continue living in Los Angeles with Camille, but Kelsey will maintain "meaningful contact" with both of them.

The couple had reached a temporary custody agreement last July, but this one is permanent.

As for the couple's financial dispute, sources tell us ... they have almost resolved all of the money issues and it should be settled very shortly.

Heather Dubrow, Newest O.C. 'Housewife,' Says Co-Stars Don't Get Her Jokes

HuffPo.com:

Heather Dubrow, the newest addition to "The Real Housewives of Orange County" cast, stopped "Good Day LA" (weekdays, 7 a.m. PST on Fox) Tuesday to visit with her old friends, Steve Edwards and Jillian Reynolds. Dubrow first met the "GDLA" team back in the 90's, when she was still Heather Paige Kent, a struggling actress who appeared in many short-lived sitcoms such as "Jenny", "Stark Raving Mad" and "That's Life."

Edwards, who is very open about his disdain for the "Housewives" franchise, seemed surprised that Dubrow joined the show, and after watching a clip of a conversation between Dubrow and fellow "Housewife" Alexis Bellino, asked her if she was perhaps too smart to relate to her co-stars. Dubrow answered carefully. "I'll let you form your own opinion about that," she said, but added that the women don't seem to get her humor.

A clip from Tuesday night's episode reinforced the disconnect. In a scene where Dubrow met with Bellino to try to get their rocky new friendship on track, Bellino mentioned she was a morning show anchor, and Dubrow asked if she was more like a Jillian Barberie (Reynolds' name from a former marriage) or a Katie Couric. Bellino looked confused and didn't seem to know who Jillian Barberie was, but realized she was "not a Katie Couric," so she chose the former.

But fear not: Dubrow also reported that her fellow "Housewives" started to get her jokes after getting to know her a little better. "I would say now that I've become friends with Tamra and Gretchen, they'll say to me, 'Oh, now I get that joke from the first episode!'"

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Sheree Whitfield: “I Didn’t Throw Kandi Under the Bus”

Wetpaint.com:

No Housewives vacation is ever drama-free — and The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s cast trip to Africa was no exception.

Although it may have looked like Sheree Whitfield stirred up trouble last week between Kandi Burruss, who was with her in Africa, and Kim Zolciak, who was home in Atlanta, Sheree wants to set the record straight: That’s not exactly how things went down!

To recap: Kim claimed she didn’t go on the trip because she wanted to stay close to her newborn son, Kroy Jr. — but cast member Cynthia Bailey had her doubts. Following a visit to a local orphanage, Cynthia remarked that she couldn’t envision Kim holding African babies. Furthermore, she said she couldn’t picture Kim wanting to visit Africa at all.

Later that day, when the ladies called Kim to say hello, Sheree appeared to rat Kandi out, telling Kim it was actually Kandi who made the comment!

So, what really happened? “First of all, the conversation in the jeep was a lot longer than was shown,” Sheree exclusively tells Wetpaint Entertainment. “It went on for several minutes."

"Second, I stand corrected: Cynthia did make the initial comment about Kim, but Kandi immediately agreed with her. She said something along the lines of, ‘I agree. Actually, I don’t see Kim in Africa period.’ Only that wasn’t shown. No one watching at home realized that Kandi had agreed with Cynthia. Hopefully, they’ll air the entire conversation during the reunion.”

Sheree took more of an issue with Kandi for agreeing, than with Cynthia for making the initial comment.

"Cynthia and Kim aren’t close. There’s no loyalty there — they’re not friends," she explains. "But Kandi is supposed to be Kim’s friend — and I thought it was strange that she was agreeing with Cynthia on a sentiment that was basically insulting Kim and implying she could possibly be racist.”

Sheree continues, “After the jeep ride, the producers asked us to call Kim, so we did. And yes, I told Kim what Kandi had said.”

While she was at it, why not mention Cynthia as well?

“Like I said, Cynthia and Kim aren’t close. Kim doesn’t expect Cynthia to have her back. But she considers Kandi a close friend. Again, Kandi did not make the initial comment, Cynthia did. But to me, it was bad that Kandi agreed and chimed in with her own comments.”

"Kim was thankful that I mentioned it,” Sheree explains. “She knows I’m not messy person. But I do believe in loyalty. Most real friends would appreciate that.”

After the incident, Sheree admits things were tense between Kandi and herself, but "we're fine now."

Monday, February 27, 2012

Bethenny Frankel: I Won't Give Up on My Marriage

LifeandStylemag.com:

From a wedding to a baby to business prosperity, Bethenny Frankel's wildest dreams have come true but the Bethenny Ever After star admits when it comes to her marriage to Jason Hoppy, it isn't always a fairytale.

"It's just hard," the creator of SkinnyGirl healthy lifestyle products and mom to 21-month-old Bryn admits to Life & Style in an exclusive interview. "I often feel like I come across as the crazy one in the relationship. Once in a while, I want to be the good cop."

In the new issue of Life & Style, on newsstands now, Bethenny opens up about navigating through the hard times on her way to happily ever after.

"Relationships are about acceptance," Bethenny tells Life & Style. "Jason and I are very different; I have a strong personality and he's more mellow. Plus, we got married in our late 30s, and you're very set in your ways by then. It's about trying to compromise when you can."

But even through the tense times, divorce has never crossed her mind. "No. Marriage is a commitment," Bethenny says. "We work at it every day."

Slade Smiley Compares Franchise To STD

Not only is Slade Smiley a deadbeat dad, but a parasite and an all-around loser. I mean despite all of that the guy has boned 3 chicks on RHOBH and he has the nerve to compare the show to an STD?!? What an a-hole:

Bravo's original "Housewives" show, "The Real Housewives of Orange County," is back and one of the show's stars, Gretchen Rossi, takes full responsibility, along with now-boyfriend Slade Smiley, for helping to start the franchise epidemic.

"Yes, it's like an STD," Slade told me on the set of my HDNet talk show "Naughty But Nice." "I think the success is based on how they are cast, because it is an inside look into the lives of these very rich, yet dysfunctional people."

Although Gretchen is the first to admit that she brings her fair share of dysfunction to the Orange County-based show, she said she's just being herself.

"At the end of the day, it's because we are real people," she said about why the Bravo-network franchise is so popular. "We are going through divorces, we are going through relationships, we have children and I think people can relate to them."

Although the pair is currently enjoying all that comes with their newfound stardom, they want to warn other "Housewives" and ex-"Housewives" that their 15 minutes of fame won't last forever.

"People need to understand that this kind of thing is fleeting," Gretchen said. "You are going to be here and gone tomorrow."

Slade also added that though people may recognize them from the show, they don't consider themselves famous.

"We don't like to think that we are celebrities ... but it does allow us to expose some of the business ventures that have come of this," he said.

Jill Zarin In Heated Dispute Over Jewish Charity Dinner Speech

RadarOnline.com:

Jill Zarin is embroiled in an angry dispute after her speech at a charity event led to the hosts to send out a letter of apology to the guests!

The former The Real Housewives of New York City star was invited to give a speech Thursday night alongside her sister, Lisa Wexler, and mother, Gloria Kamen, at a women's event organized by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas.

However according to a writer for the website www.tvtime101.com things did not go as planned for the trio, who are co-authors of the book Secrets of a Jewish Mother.

Wexler reportedly told the audience that stay-at home-moms are not fulfilled, moms need to also work outside the home, and that caused some women in the audience to walk out of the event.

The organizers felt the same about the speech - which had been billed as a fun take on being a Jewish mom - and were quick to email an apology to guests the next day.

"We also realize that our entertainment after dinner was a true and complete disappointment," read the apology letter, obtained by RadarOnline.com. "Their presentation was not what we had planned with them and certainly did not meet our expectations of a funny and poignant take on Jewish motherhood."

However in an exclusive statement to RadarOnline.com from Wexler on behalf of her reality star sister and mom, she insists they've had nothing but positive comments regarding their talk.

"We have presented to numerous groups throughout the country with very positive feedback. We are disappointed to hear that some members of the Dallas audience did not feel that way.

"The sentiment of the person who wrote that letter is not reflective of the very positive audience feedback we personally heard after the event as well as emails we received."

Wexler - who has her own radio show - also addressed her own words.

"I spoke from my heart. I spoke of my values as expressed in our book and on my radio show every day," she told Radar. "In a group of 700 women, some will agree with me and others will not. As to the specific allegation that I spoke against stay at home moms, that is an absolute lie."

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Bethenny Frankel Continues To Promote Skinnygirl Drink Despite It Being Pulled From Shelves

DailyMail.co:

No one can accuse Real Housewives of New York star Bethenny Frankel of lacking bottle.

For the reality television personality is continuing to promote her drink Skinnygirl, which has been pulled form shelves for containing potentially cancer causing ingredients.

Bethenny, who left the popular show in 2010, was in South Beach, Florida to drum up interest in her cocktail mix drink.

The 40-year-old gave a presentation at the Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival.

And she continued to talk up the benefits of using the brand, despite the fact Wholefoods have stopped stocking the products for containing potentially carcinogenic ingredients.

Wholefoods found it contained the preservative sodium benzoate, which can become carcongenic when mixed with vitamin C.

But that is far from the only blow that has been dealt to the drink brand.

Earlier this week it was been accused of using poor quality, non-pure tequila, rather than the ‘100 per cent blue agave tequila’ advertised on the bottle.

The company founder has repeatedly claimed that her ‘margarita you can trust’ had just two ingredients: agave nectar and 100 per cent blue agave tequila.

Skinnygirl drinkers Christopher Rapcinsky and Erin Baker brought a $10 million class action lawsuit against its makers for falsely claiming the drink was ‘all natural’ with ‘no preservatives’.

Rapcinsky and Baker have now amended their suit after discovering the tequila in the drink is ‘a lower quality and purity tequila by-product called mixto - essentially a mash of tequila and some unknown additives’.

Comparing pure tequila to mixto ‘is like comparing Thunderbird wine to a fine Chianti. They're both wine, but very different,’ said their lawyer, Tom Mullaney.

Frankel sold the two-year-old drink line earlier this year for a reported $120million, according to the New York Post.

The lawsuit claims that after liquor giant Beam Global bought the Skinnygirl brand from Frankel, the labels changed to say the drink was made ‘with premium Blue Agave tequila’ – taking out the ‘100 per cent’ reference.

The statement that it includes the premium tequila could therefore be true, the suit said, but is still misleading.

It adds that Skinnygirl's ‘entire marketing campaign, both its advertising and labelling, is based on falsehoods’.

‘Consumers would not have purchased Skinnygirl Margarita had they known it was manufactured with inferior mixto tequila,’ it said.

In a statement, Beam Global argued: ‘Skinnygirl Margarita is made with premium blue agave tequila and meets the highest quality standards. We will defend our case

vigorously, and we are fully confident we will prevail.’Frankel fiercely defended the drink earlier this year when it was revealed it was not as natural as she'd claimed.

Marlo Hampton Clears the Air on Fights, Her Money, and the Gay Slur

HollywoodReporter.com:

In her short time on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Marlo Hampton has made quite the impression on her cast mates and the show’s fans. According to the socialite, her time on the show ends soon after they return from the epic Africa trip. But, that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a lot more to say.

While the source of her wealth is in constant debate on the show, there’s much to look up to Marlo for. She was a foster child who we all know had some tough times with the law – including a rap sheet with at least eight charges. But now, she has made herself a comfortable life, become a well-known figure in Atlanta, and founded Glam It Up, her organization that mentors girls growing up in the foster care system.

“The main part is that I invested my money,” Hampton tells The Hollywood Reporter about her money. “I wasn't crazy, I didn't have to spend on everything. My home is paid for, my vehicles are paid for… I came from nothing to where I never want to go back to being a foster child, being homeless, or being in the projects, and just struggling, and not knowing where my next meal was going to come from. I don't want to go back to that.”

At any rate, she caused quite a stir on the Bravo show with the housewives and spoke to THR about what went down including her on-air fights, her money, and her controversial use of a gay slur during her argument with Sheree Whitfield.

I’m impressed by the fact that you and Nene Leakes dated the same guy, but you guys get along and got over it. How did you do that?
Marlo Hampton: I really didn't care from when I first heard about it, them dating or whatever. I didn't know him then. Why the hell do I care who he dated before me or talked to before me? I didn't know Nene, I didn't know him. So, the only thing I did want to know though, like “Hey, if I am going to be working with or around her, I want to know what happened, is it over with?” And once it was all confirmed it was like "OK, move over, get over it." And when she cleared the air, he cleared the air, it was done. But the girls wanted it to be something major.

How would you characterize the experience of the Africa trip?
Hampton: Oh my God, that was just a life experience. I just loved that experience, it changed my life. It was wonderful, the bad part definitely being Sheree's argument, I hate that that happened. But then the orphanage and the children, I loved that part, it touched me like no other. It reminded me of my dad, which you don't know, well you should know. I grew up in a foster home also, so just being in there just kind of reminded me of my childhood and it was just really sad. I wish I could've grabbed them and brought them back here to the U.S. with me.

What was the real cause of your fight with Sheree?
Hampton: I would not have cared about her inviting me to the party, because I know that Sheree doesn't really care for me too much, whatever. But, after we sat on the boat and we're all like "Hey, we're going to bond, at least when we see each other we're going to speak, we're going to be cordial," I'm like, OK, we're starting off on a new foot, we're connecting. So as soon as we get back to the room, you call Cynthia over and invite Cynthia and not me, really? Sheree, seriously? Where we just left 30 minutes ago saying "Oh, we're going to try to get along," so that really just shocked me. And then we started the argument, I guess the part that blew me was when she was like, "Oh don't go there, you're dating an 80-year-old white man." I just lost it.

The source of your money was an ongoing drama among the women. Why do you think Kandi Burruss is so interested in where you got your money?
Hampton: I don't even know, to tell you the truth, it took me by surprise. Like, say if I meet someone, I'm assuming I'm going to say, "What do you do for a living?," not "Where do you get your money from?" So, it took me by surprise. Like, I don't get it, I don't get it. That one puzzled me, I want to ask her too, why was she so concerned about that?

You still don’t know why?
Hampton: Oh I just got it. It's jealousy and envy, that's what it was. I mean, it's got to be jealousy and envy, something, Lord -- women with low self-esteem only. The gay men love me, men love me, and strong-minded women love me, who have high self-esteem. Only the low self-esteem women have a problem with me, and it's like, "Why? What is your problem?" Just because I love fashion, my story is different from yours, my occupation is different from yours, what is the problem?

So, where did you get you your money?
Hampton: I mean, from work, and I did own and found the Red Carpet Boutique at Perimeter Mall in Atlanta for three years, which I just closed when I started taping with Bravo. And people always ask about my clothing, they love my advice, my style, and it made more sense to go global, so I did the Simply Marlo, Marlo's Closet online, and I invested my money. I mean, I did have a boutique for three years, and of course, I have been spoiled by my boyfriends. The main part is that I invested my money.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Kandi Burruss Searches for Next Big Pop Star On New Reality Show "The Kandi Factory"

People.com:

Kandi Burruss is getting her Simon Cowell on.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star – who turned Kim Zolciak into a pop singer – will coach two young people through a chance at music stardom on a new spin-off special.

On The Kandi Factory, which will air March 4 (10 p.m. ET) on Bravo, Grammy winner Burruss will invite a young man and a young woman to Atlanta, where she'll work with them on "three factors that have to fit together to create a pop sensation," according to a press release from Bravo, "the song, the look and the performance."

Of the two singers, who have no previous experience in the music industry, one of them will get a big opportunity: their song will be released and a music video will be produced by Burruss's team at The Kandi Factory.

Friday, February 24, 2012

Kim Richards Feeling 'Really Good' Post-Rehab

People.com:

Just over a month after leaving rehab, Kim Richards says she's feeling better than ever.

"It was a rough go to get here, but I feel really good," the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star tells PEOPLE. "I love life. I'm just enjoying it so much."

Speaking at The Hollywood Reporter's Nominees Night pre-Oscar party on Thursday, Richards, 47, said it was her own motivation that prompted her to seek treatment in December, but that she also relied on the support of those around her, including her sister Kyle.

"I was definitely tired of the way my life was and I wanted to get better," Richards said. "My family and friends – without them I just definitely couldn't do it."

Also providing help along the way: her fans.

"The fans have been so supportive," she said. "I steal a sneak peek at Facebook or Twitter ... I look on there and I see them and they're like, 'We love you and you're the best' or whatever they say. And when I go places, too. I'm walking down the street and people walk up to me and they just hug me and they cry and they're like, 'We love you and we watched you go down and come back up.' "

"That's so rewarding to me, to know that I've been something good in their life as well that I can come up on the other side now," she added.

Since leaving treatment, Richards has started hiking and doing Pilates, as well as taking more time out of her schedule to just focus on herself.

Though she did not comment on whether she'd be returning to the Real Housewives, Richards said her struggles with substance abuse aren't a reason to shy away from the cameras.

"It doesn't make me want to walk away from anything," she told PEOPLE of her stint in rehab. "It makes me want to step out in front of everything and just say you know what? Anybody can do it. I don't want to walk away from anything in my life. It's part of life, you know, facing it."

Fireworks On The 'Apprentice' Set: Teresa Giudice Explodes At Hubby Joe

NationalEnquirer.com:

The messy marriage of "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star TERESA GIUDICE is wreaking havoc on the set of NBC's "Celebrity Apprentice," sources say.

Teresa — already incensed that hubby JOE is facing more than 10 years in prison — blew up at him backstage and screamed: "You're a cheater!"

"Teresa has a hair-trigger temper and her 'street-hood side' comes out when she gets agitated," an insider told The ENQUIRER.

"That's what happened when she thought she'd 'caught' Joe with one of the show's gorgeous female contestants.

"It turns out that he'd been hanging out with some cast members behind the scenes during filming. Joe had been drinking and he was acting like a fool when Teresa thought he was hitting on one of the women."

This season's "Apprentice" — hosted by billionaire business mogul DONALD TRUMP — is packed with knockout beauties, including singer/actress AUBREY O'DAY, former Miss Universe DAYANA MENDOZA and model PATRICIA VELASQUEZ.

And 41-year-old Joe was like a kid in a candy store among all those women, insiders say. "Besides his booze benders and violent outbursts, Joe has a wandering eye," said another source.

"He fancies himself a ladies' man, so it's not hard to figure that he'd flirt with the women on the show.

"But none of them want anything to do with Joe. Although they were polite, they kept him at arm's length. Teresa doesn't have a thing to worry about as far as her 'Apprentice' rivals go. But she's a hothead."

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Do The Real Housewives of the O.C.’s Brooks Ayers and Slade Smiley Both Owe Child Support?

Wetpaint.com:

It was an acute case of the pot calling the kettle black on Real Housewives of Orange County Season 7, Episode 3, when Gretchen Rossi and boyfriend Slade Smiley discovered that his number one nemesis, insurance saleswoman Vicki Gunvalson, was dating a man accused of not paying child support. That’s continually been Vicki’s main complaint about Slade. But who is really in the wrong here, Slade, Brooks, or both?

Let’s take a look at the facts: Vicki’s right that Slade hasn’t exactly been keeping up with his bills. Radar Online previously reported that Gretchen’s boy toy owes a cool $138,857.64 in back child support. Vicki’s made many a comment about the situation, and Gretchen tried to clear things up on her blog last May: “Slade pays as much child support as he can every month, but to keep up with his original order of $4,000 a month on top of medical bills [ed. note: Slade’s son Grayson is battling a brain tumor] would be difficult for anyone in these harder economic times.” In an interview with The National Enquirer, Slade’s ex Michelle Arroyo said, “My son’s father, Slade Smiley, is a deadbeat dad.”

Still, while Vicki holds Gretchen’s love muffin to a high standard, it seems she doesn’t expect the same from her own man. Another Radar Online story claims Vicki’s beloved Brooks Ayers has his own issues with the courts, and he may be even worse off than Slade.

Brooks was arrested twice by Alabama and Mississippi police for not paying over $40,000 in child support. To make matters worse, Brooks owes money to two baby mamas: estranged wife Kim and ex-girlfriend Nicolette. People might lie, but numbers don’t.

Majority of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Cast Returning For Season Three; Dr. Paul Nassif Threatened By Patient

RadarOnline.com:

The majority of the cast of Bravo's hit show, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, will be back for season three, RadarOnline.com is exclusively reporting.

The final episodes of the last season garnered record ratings for the reality show franchise, which featured Taylor Armstrong finally admitting to the other ladies that she was physically abused by her late husband, Russell Armstrong.

The Texas beauty feared that she wouldn't be asked to return for another season. However, network executives realize that Armstrong and her saga were ratings gold, and she will be asked back.

"Taylor, Lisa Vanderpump, Adrienne Maloof, Brandi Glanville, and Kyle Richards will all be asked to return,” a source close to the situation tells RadarOnline.com. “Bravo would love Camille Grammer to return too, but she might want to move on to other projects which she has expressed interest in. Kyle's sister, and fellow housewife, Kim Richards, has made it known she doesn't want to come back. Kim is still very fragile after her latest stint in rehab."

As RadarOnline.com previously reported, Lisa Vanderpump's spin-off show for Bravo wasn't picked up. "Lisa was hoping to follow in the footsteps of New York housewife Bethenny Frankel who had her own successful spin-offs focusing on her wedding and new baby, but the network decided not to pick up her show," a source close to the Real Housewives told RadarOnline.com.

While none of the ladies have formally been asked back for the third season yet, it's expected that Bravo will extend the offer for season three in the next several weeks to Taylor, Adrienne, Kyle, Brandi and Kyle.

Meantime, “The network is actively looking for new cast members for the third season," the insider says.

Taping for the new season will begin after the 4th of July.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Kandi Burruss Clears the Air After Controversial Africa Trip Comments, Sheree Says She's Not Sorry For What She Said To Kim

BuddyTV.com:

In this week's episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Kandi Burruss, who's usually neutral among the ladies, found herself right in the middle of all the drama. Now, after being accused of saying that Kim Zolciak wouldn't go to Africa or hold a black baby at an orphanage, Kandi's writing on her Bravo blog to clear the air with her opinions about her friend Kim.

First, she addresses Marlo Hampton, the friend of the housewives (specifically NeNe) who brought 29 pairs of shoes on their ten-day trip to Africa, which she wasn't even technically invited to.

"I think for the most part Marlo is a nice person, and yes, I think she's fashionable, but I just don't like being around people who constantly boast and brag about what they have," Kandi wrote of Marlo's constant need to flaunt her expensive labels. "At a certain point people will only notice you for what they can see on the surface, if that's all you seem to offer. I think Marlo has an incredible closet full of beautiful clothes and shoes, but the constant talk about them I can do without."

Kandi also makes clear her opinions about her friend Kim Zolciak missing the trip to Africa, and defended her claim that she "couldn't see" Kim helping out at the orphanage that the ladies visited:

"First off, I do not think Kim would have gone to Africa, even if she hadn't just had the baby, and I don't see her spending time at an orphanage, especially not the one we went to in Africa," she wrote. "Kim has been avoiding NeNe for over a year. It would have taken a million dollars to get her to come on a trip where she was stuck for a whole week in close proximity to NeNe. On top of that she hates long flights. As for me saying I don't see her at the orphanage, no I don't. She may disagree, but that's my opinion. I just don't see her being the type to be there. Not that Kim wouldn't help. I think she would help with giving donations to get them what they need, but I don't see her doing physical help."

Despite standing by her claims, Kandi wasn't appreciative of being "thrown under the bus" by her fellow "Small" Sheree. Kandi says that she didn't mean to imply anything racially in her comments about Kim and that her words were twisted by Sheree.

Kandi also resents NeNe claiming that Kim was the "boss of the Smalls." In the episode, she said that no one else is the "boss" of her in any aspect of her life.

"No one in the Smalls leads the other," Kandi wrote. "We all have our own opinions and are not easily influenced. She also says that we think she is the leader of the Talls, and that they do what she says. I might agree she's the leader of Cynthia. She may not lead Cynthia, but she definitely seems to influence Cynthia. Cynthia said that the Smalls seem nicer when NeNe isn't around, but I think it's just that when NeNe is not there, Cynthia is more open with us."

Vicki Gunvalson's ex-Husband Donn Spotted Frequently at Sex Clubs: Report

Hey, the guy's single and just been diagnosed with cancer, let him have a little fun:

Even though Vicki Gunvalson admitted that she was going through a "midlife crisis" when she and her husband filed for divorce in 2010, it's Donn who's reportedly been seeking a little racy fun - via sex clubs.

A source told RadarOnline.com that Donn was spotted recently at one of the largest 21+ swingers clubs in the L.A. and Orange Country area, Freedom Acres. And he wasn't alone.

"I recognized him immediately, and once I started talking to him he introduced himself as Donn," the insider at the club said of the former reality husband.

"He went to the back room with the woman he brought and they were engaged in public sex."

According to Radar, the source requested anonymity because of her own involvement in the swingers club scene.

The source also told the site that though she's seen Donn in the club a number of times, he usually just has public sex with the woman he enters with, but doesn't attempt to engage others.

"I've never seen him have sex with anyone other than who he brings," she said.

Freedom Acres, according to its site, requires a yearly membership and features a "pool table, an oversized hot tub, dance floor with raised stage complete with a pole for dancing and many TVs throughout the club showing XXX movies."

As for Vicki's own version of racy divorcee fun?

The "Real Housewife" told Us magazine at the time that proof of her midlife crisis was evident.

"I've got a convertible, a belly button ring, and I'm getting a divorce!" she told the magazine.

The couple was married for 16 years before their split.

Ramona Singer Flaunts Her Sizzling Hot Bikini Body; 'Real Housewives Of New York' Season 5: Ladies Head To St. Barts

RadarOnline.com:

Ramona Singer may be 55 years old but she still has the body of a woman half her age.

The Real Housewives of New York star was spotted soaking up the sun in Miami Monday in a skimpy blue bikini, and RadarOnline.com has the sizzling hot photos.

Ramona was mixing business with pleasure, vacationing with her husband Mario, as well as promoting her new wine, Ramona Singer Pinot Grigio.

The reality star came under fire last year for her love of wine, battling reports that she is an alcoholic.

Fellow cast members hit Singer with a barrage of uncomfortable accusations regarding her drinking, which was well documented on the reality show, during a Housewives reunion taping.

However, she insisted that she doesn’t have a problem, telling host Andy Cohen: “I have been drinking pinot grigio since the day the show started, and maybe some people this year have a little problem because this season I have Ramona Pinot Grigio, but I embrace all my products.”

“They only have a problem because of the way it's been shown. I don't drink any more or less than I have for the past four years, or more than anyone else. We film at parties and social events. I don't have a problem.”

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Peggy Tanous Talks Leaving RHOC; Vicki Gunvalson Calls Her “Disrespectful!” Plus Gretchen Claims An “Act Of God” Made Her Forgive Tamra

RealityTea.com:

Last week’s episode of Real Housewives of Orange County featured the official retiring or firing of Peggy Tanous, after a disastrous dinner party where she and Alexis Bellino fought over the ancient history of a toad-like lump named Jim. I probably shouldn’t insult toads that way! Sorry toads, don’t sue me!

Peggy told us she decided to leave because the show gave her anxiety – which I can attest to, I have anxiety simply from watching, so I can understand the anxiety associated from participating. Now she is speaking out and giving more details about what made her give her two weeks notice.

Speaking to Wetpaint, Peggy maintains it was her decision to leave the show. “I am happy with my decision to leave the show. I think this was the best decision for me and my family,” she revealed. “I didn’t want to get pigeon holed as a ‘Housewife’.”

“I’m so happy I did the show and so thankful for the opportunity and experience!;” Peggy added. “It gave me a huge platform, opened doors in a lot of areas, was a lot of fun, and a great learning experience! Not to mention it got me back to doing the work I love and missed while taking time off to have my baby girls.”

As for Alexis, the two have not spoken and no love is lost! “I have not seen or spoken to Alexis since filming Vicki’s party in September,” Peggy says. “We are different people with different priorities, but I wish her well.”

Peggy does still talk to Tamra Barney, who she considers a real-life friend. “I haven’t seen any of the current cast members since Vicki’s party, but I still talk to Tamra and consider her a good friend.” Well, you win some, you lose some.

In response to Peggy’s nothing but nice comments about her former co-stars (save for Alexis), Vicki Gunvalson is taking to her Bravo Blog to trash her so-called former friend! Classy! “The fact that Peggy stood there all righteous acting like her and Micah are so perfect and Jim and Alexis aren’t was rude. Everyone, including them have a ‘past,’” Vicki seethes. Kinda ironic coming from Vicks considering how she treated Slade Smiley only to date his deadbeat brother from another mother!

“To talk about Jim’s past when she doesn’t know the truth is just plain disrespectful. I don’t know why she has set out to try and humiliate Jim the way she has,” Vicki continued. “The accusations that Peggy said about Jim are just wrong and childish. If he doesn’t mean anything to you, then why continue to discuss it? Time to move on girl.” Vicki’s getting a little defensive as of late, isn’t she? Me thinks defending Brooks Ayers has become somewhat of a full-time job!

Moving on, Gretchen Rossi opens up about her decision to forgive Miss. Tamra. And she is giving all the credit to God! Seriously. I guess Alexis finally saved one! “First as I watched myself last season on the show I saw a woman that wasn’t me. I saw a woman that was angry, resentful, and had become negative in some ways,” Gretchen explains in her Bravo Blog.

“I have always been an upbeat positive person and I realized that I no longer wanted to allow anyone to rob me of my own joy. No matter how bad the pain, no matter how harsh the accusations, I just realized I had to let it go in order for my own spirit to repair itself.”

“Secondly, literally an Act of God helped change my way of thinking,” she writes. “I was attending church after the reunion show one weekend and the sermon was about forgiveness.” Listening to her pastor Rick Warren advise: “When we do not allow ourselves to forgive we only hurt ourselves,” opened Gretchen’s eyes. “This resonated with me deeply,” Gretchen asserts.

Sheree Whitfield Talks What Would Happen If She Fought Marlo Hampton

For Hip Hop News & Entertainment at DimeWars.Com

I'm sorry, but Sheree played herself here...like Jackee suggested she should've said that she'd kick Marlo's ass. What a punk.

RELATED: Real Housewives Of Atlanta Recap: Bush Whacked!

Monday, February 20, 2012

Bethenny Frankel Reveals Recent Miscarriage

AccessHollywood.com:

Bethenny Frankel teared up on Monday’s “Today” show as she revealed she recently suffered a miscarriage while trying to have a second child with husband Jason Hoppy.

“We were pregnant with a second baby and at eight weeks I miscarried,” Bethenny said on Monday, as she promoted the third season of her Bravo series, “Bethenny Ever After.”

Growing tearful, the reality star shared her sadness over the loss.

“That was a very emotional experience and it had a lot of different things that came with it. And… thinking about women who can’t have their own baby, even the first baby, I mean, I’m really lucky,” Bethenny, who is mom to Bryn, 21 months, continued. “I have the most beautiful daughter in the world… and I’m grateful for her.”

Bethenny said she isn’t sure what the future holds regarding children.

“Until you become a woman you don’t know the things that come with being a woman and I’m 41,” Bethenny said. “I don’t know. It’s not really my choice, it’s not really my option and the window’s closing and so, you know, it’s something that I’m dealing with.”

The reality star said her miscarriage will not be a part of Season 3 of her show.

“[It] is something that has not been dealt with on the show — that was very recent,” she said

When asked if she still hopes to have another child, Bethenny said her own loss made her think about others.

“I’m not really thinking about it… I do have an incredible daughter, I feel like she’s perfect, and I – honestly, truthfully — have thought about other women more than myself,” she said. “The first thing that I thought about was, ‘Oh my God, I can’t believe what people must go through if they can’t even have the one.’”

“Bethenny Ever After” premieres on February 20 at 9/8c on Bravo.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Kyle Richards Weighs In On Sister Kim's Shocking Admission

Gather.com:

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills may be done for this season and the three-part reunion surely still has people talking, considering Kim Richards confessed to having a problem with alcohol. Now her sister Kyle Richards weighs in on how much her sister's confession meant and remembers other shocking moments on the reunion taping that left her jaw dropped.

"Watching Kim sit across from Andy and say 'I'm an alcoholic' touched me beyond words," Kyle writes in her blog. It seems that Kim actually confessing that secret with not only Kyle, but with the world, meant lots to her sister. The sisters didn't have the best time in Hawaii, as Kim's alcoholism seemed to top there, causing the sisters to feud even more.

"For Kim to put herself out there in front of millions of people and admit that was a huge step in her recovery. Since the beginning of Season 1, all of the girls in the cast have been kind and supportive towards Kim. Although, they knew of her struggles, they respected her choice to deal with it privately. That is something I will never forget," Kyle explains of her The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills costars.

Despite them having some troubles on the show, it seems that Kim and Kyle are working through their issues. "Kim is doing so well. Each day she is stronger, happier, and moving forward, one day at a time," Kyle shares about her sister. It seems she is proud and although there is a long way ahead, it seems Kim is headed in the right direction.

Teresa Giudice Discusses Friends, Rivals on 'Celebrity Apprentice'

NorthJersey.com:

What does Teresa Giudice think about her fellow cast mates on "The Celebrity Apprentice?"

Lou Ferrigno gets a thumbs up.

"I remember growing up watching the 'Hulk' and he was delightful," says Giudice, who also "bonded" with a supermodel from an earlier era. "Cheryl Tiegs was awesome."

Mention Victoria Gotti, though, and the notoriously outspoken member of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" clams up.

"Well, you're going to have to watch and see," the Montville reality star says. "There was definitely a lot of friction."

Between Gotti and Giudice, Gotti and everyone else, or among the cast in general?

"Watch and see," Giudice says again. "A lot of us were very strong-minded. Even Mr. Trump said that this is like the best cast ever. He kept saying how impressed he was with all of us."

In tonight's two-hour premiere, Donald Trump divides the 18 celebs into competing teams of men versus women, who name themselves "Unanimous" and "Forte," respectively. Gotti seems to generate friction from the get-go, by conducting personal business on the phone instead of devoting herself to the first assignment: selling "celebrity sandwiches" to raise money for the charities chosen by project managers Paul Teutul Sr. ("American Chopper") and Venezuelan actress-model Patricia Velasquez.

A food-related challenge helmed by a model rather than Giudice? If the best-selling cookbook author had known in advance what the first challenge was going to be, she says she "would have definitely wanted to be project manager."

Her approach to playing the boardroom game was simple: "Some people had a strategy. I went in being myself and being real, with an open mind and happy to meet everyone and not trying to take anyone down – unless they came towards me, then I would do it," says Giudice (whose name is pronounced "Judy-Shay" in this show, the way she has said she wants it to be pronounced; Bravo's Andy Cohen, who makes a cameo tonight, pronounced it "Joo-dice.")

When Giudice was first asked to do "Celebrity Apprentice," she says she was "skeptical" about it.

"And then after meeting with Mr. Trump, I decided to do it," she says. "He's very business-smart, and I have to say, after doing it, I am so happy I did. I learned so much. I feel like now I can do anything in business."

Her initial hesitancy had nothing to do with fears that her past financial problems would come up, because, she says, Trump's show has "nothing to do with that." (The opening credits, however, do show her on a cover of In Touch magazine that screams, "How I Blew $11 Million.")

What concerned her were the "insane hours" of filming, which would take her away from her four young daughters. "That's one of the biggest reasons why I didn't want to do it, but then, I kept telling my daughters, 'As soon as Mommy gets fired, she'll come home,' '' Giudice says. "My second daughter, Gabriella said, 'Mommy, I hope you to get fired right away.'

"They ended up staying with me [at Trump Tower] on Friday nights. It was like a treat for them."

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Alexis Bellino Blames Peggy Tanous for Their Fight in Real Housewives of Orange County Season 7, Episode 2

Wetpaint.com:

The feud between Real Housewives of Orange County’s Alexis Bellino and Peggy Tanous is the dramatic gift that keeps on giving. In Season 7, Episode 2, Peggy and Alexis face each other for the first time since an epic blowout last season. While one might think time would heal their wounds, it was business as usual for these two.

Both parties refused to take blame for that evening’s fight. In Alexis’ latest Bravo blog, she writes that it was Peggy who stirred things up, and “kept throwing digs” at her all night. She also says she was competing with Peggy’s 4-year-old child.

She explains: “[Peggy’s] daughter London had broken her arm over the summer, and I had texted Peggy to tell her I was thinking and praying for her. So at Vicki's when she's telling me the story of what happened to London's arm, I was merely relating to her daughter and what she was going through when I made the comment about having a rod in my leg. I WAS NOT COMPETING with a four-year-old! That just sounds so ridiculous to even say. The fact that Peggy would even say that makes me once again think she is looking for drama.”

Le sigh. We don’t know who to place blame on this round, but we do give Alexis one point for her next comment, which hit the bejeweled nail on the head: “It seems like Peggy and I just can't get out of this negative cycle we're in,” she writes.

Actually, she should make that past tense. Peggy broke the cycle in October when she quit the show for good — she tells Wetpaint Entertainment that the two haven’t seen each other since Vicki’s dinner party.

Taylor Armstrong Claims She Didn’t Write Book For Money; Desperately Wants To Return For Season 3 Of RHOBH! Plus Denies Affair

RealityTea.com:

Controversy over Taylor Armstrong‘s memoir, published mere months after her estranged husband Russell Armstrong‘s suicide, has been attracting a lot of attention in the press – particularly because speculation over the truth behind her allegations has emerged.

Recent rumors have posited that Taylor’s antics and the negative attention she is receiving because of her penchant for dishonesty (along with a recent lawsuit that may involve Bravo) has Bravo seeing her as a “liability,” which will likely jeopardize her spot on next season’s cast. Well, Taylor is speaking out defending herself and her actions – and explaining why it’s important that she remain a part of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills!

Standing by her decision to publish her book, Taylor insists her motive was not money. Who does she expect to believe that? “I know how it looks,” she says, responding to a question about capitalizing from Russell’s death. She claims she wanted people to start talking about the horrors of domestic violence. “If I didn’t think this would make a difference, I wouldn’t be doing it,” she told the Los Angeles Times. “Trust me, you don’t make that much money off a book.” But you do make money off publicity tours, appearances, and advances associated with a book!

While Taylor is adamant she did not release this memoir with any untoward intentions, it is well-known that Russell’s family and friends–most vocally his sister Laurie Kelsoe –are insistent that the allegations Taylor makes are completely untrue and have made Russell seem like someone he was not. Laurie believes the show has “completely defaced his character,” telling Dr. Drew in a recent interview: “Shame on [Taylor] for doing this and for thinking that all he was was bad … if that’s the case, then why did she stay there and spend his money?”

Firing back, Taylor insists Laurie wasn’t a part of their lives and had no idea what went on behind closed doors. “There are a number of people who are trying to find their way into the story of my life with Russell,” Taylor asserts. “Russell’s sister Laurie Kelsoe … has no basis for saying anything about my life with Russell. She lives almost 1,500 miles away and saw our family on a small number of occasions.”

“The facts are there,” Taylor says of what went on in her marriage. But that is exactly the problem. There are no facts – only Taylor’s so-called recollections about what occurred. Which is why more questions are emerging about the validity of her claims. The LA Times asked Dr. Catherine Hwang, an orbital and oculo-plastics surgeon at UCLA’s Jules Stein Eye Institute, to review the medical record Taylor released pertaining to her orbital floor injury.

Dr. Hwang, who did not treat Taylor, explains fractures of that nature can occur from a range of incidents. Taylor has maintained that she had no bruising after Russell “raised up one elbow and punched me hard, in the right eye.” Dr. Hwang finds that surprising, given Taylor’s age and the nature of the injury. “Usually, older patients have some sort of bruising,” Dr. Hwang mentioned. “But anything is possible.”

Taylor planned to write her book before Russell’s death – although she claims he was not aware of her intentions. If Russell had not passed away, Taylor says, “I don’t think I could have been as honest.” Citing the difficulty she had putting her life out there and down on paper, Taylor explains: “Bearing your soul to people is really hard.”

“I wanted it to be really raw and honest,”Taylor shared with OK! at Barnes & Noble at The Grove.

While Russell had no knowledge of her intentions to publish a book, Taylor recalls he had ascertained that news of her injuries would emerge in the media. “He did know, though, that the extent of the abuse would likely come out in the press.”

“I spent a couple of days in Cedars-Sinai after [the eye] incident. There were nurses around. Plenty of people saw me in the operating room. The odds of keeping that under wraps, I mean, come on. He absolutely knew it was all going to come out. That was really something he was dreading.”

“One of Russell’s big concerns, which he would bring up constantly after my eye incident, is, ‘Do you think the D.A. could press charges against me and put me in jail whether you press charges or not?’ I hate to say it, I would have wanted to protect him from that.”

As for her decision to release the novel memoir a “hot minute” after Russell took his life, Taylor believes it was imperative that she get her story out there quickly. “I just didn’t feel like waiting was necessary. Also, I didn’t want to wait until I had euphoric recall and forgetting about all of the things that had happened.”

“Unfortunately, there are so many people out there that are living in dangerous situations that I really felt like it was important enough for me to get this story out there and take the criticism that comes with it,” she adds.

Joe Gorga Hasn’t Congratulated Teresa Giudice on Celebrity Apprentice, He’s Become a Monster: Source

Wetpaint.com:

It’s no secret that the relationship between Teresa Giudice and her brother Joe Gorga is an absolute mess, and according to Teresa, things have only gotten worse.

Now a source very close to Teresa is telling All About the Real Housewives that the Gorgas have yet to offer Teresa any congratulations for landing a spot on Celebrity Apprentice.

The source says that Teresa and Joe haven’t spoken since the reunion and that Joe was a “completely different person” before Real Housewives of New Jersey.

As far as Celebrity Apprentice is concerned, the source continues “Both him [Joe] and Melissa haven’t even congratulated Teresa on Celebrity Apprentice unless it was through the media. Joe isn’t even close with his parents anymore. He continues to trash his sister as if she stabbed him in the heart or something.”

Teresa The source continues to rag on Joe saying, “Joe has become a monster with a huge ego. It’s ridiculous! He doesn’t care about his family or his children being close with their cousins or he would try to make things work. He only ever acts like he cares when the cameras are on.”

There’s no doubt that this family has a very complicated dynamic, but it’s difficult to place all of the blame on the Gorgas. It doesn’t sound like Teresa is making things any easier.

Sweetie Hughes Speaks Out About Getting Fired By Kim Zolciak

RealityTea.com:

Sweetie Hughes is tired of the speculation about why she no longer works for Kim Zolciak. The most infamous assistant to ever grace the screens on reality TV is speaking out about what really went on and setting the record straight on the rumors that she stole from Kim.

Speaking to StraightfromtheA, Sweetie reveals that the first time she heard the alleged rumor that she had stolen from Kim was on twitter, and she was shocked. Sweetie reveals that it’s absolutely absurd, and that for years she handled Kim’s money. “That shit is crazy! Do you know how much money I handled for Kim. As her assistant I had bank account access and all that… something that other assistants never had the opportunity to get that far… so as far as loyalty it’s been very high.”

“I think someone just made it up and I realize that out of every assistant she’s ever had, I’m the one they always talk about… they always try to keep my name out there, which is cool, it ain’t hurting me.”

Kim confirmed in a tweet that Sweetie definitely did not steal from her and rumors that she did are completely false. “@SweetieHughes would never steal from me you sick bloggers get a life,” Kim wrote.

Sweetie explains that Kim has been using employing her for years and she has no idea why she even became her assistant in the first place.”To be honest, I really don’t even know… I guess it was just spur of the moment. I just happened to know her so well it just worked out,” Sweetie shares.

“She had so many different assistants it just worked out. I worked for her way before she was famous. I did the same thing I was doing now back then… at the age of 15. The only thing I couldn’t do back then was drive…. coffee… scheduled appointments… I did it all.” I think calling Kim “famous” is a stretch…

When asked why she was fired, Sweetie was perplexed, openly admitting she doesn’t really know, but claims that she initially tried to quit! “I actually quit in the beginning and was like.. you know… I have school and stuff… but agreed to work until she found another assistant,” she explains. “And it so happens I just continued to work… but we went back and forth basically and it just went on and on.”

“Did she call me and while I was on my way to work to say not to come in to work or ‘its not gonna work out’? Yeah she did but I been asking for that about a year ago,” Sweetie reveals! As for what prompted the initial split, Sweetie blames the camera crews, but she feels they parted amicably. “I guess it’s a lot of stress, a lot of filming going on… but it’s not like it was on a really bad note.” Sweetie and Kim definitely remain friendly if twitter is any sort of reliable source.

Sweetie isn’t interested in giving away too many details about the break-up, she just wants to clear her good name. “I don’t want to bash nobody. The one thing I have is loyalty. A lot of people don’t have that and that’s the one thing I have.”

When asked about the rumor that Kroy Biermann was uncomfortable having African Americans in his home and that prompted Kim to let her go, Sweetie was pretty nebulous in her answer, simply stating that Kroy is “cool”

“Yeah… he’s cool. He cool. That’s all I’ve got to say. I prefer not to… umm… We’re just better off cool,” Sweetie muses. Interestingly she adds, “There’s only so much someone can take.”

Does Sonja Morgan Have A New Boyfriend?

RumorFix.com:

It’s a relationship made in Bravo heaven.

She’s one of the most fabulous Real Housewives of New York, so we’re not surprised to hear that Sonja Morgan is dating a hunky new guy.

The reality star told RumorFix exclusively that she is dating Million Dollar Listing NY realtor Ryan Serhant, after the pair was spotted “flirting up a storm” at the Human Rights Campaign event in New York on Feb 4.

“I’m crazy about him! He made me feel like I was the only woman in the room at the HRC gala,” Sonja tells us exclusively.

“He’s adorable!” Sonja says about the realtor, who used to be a star on As The World Turns and served as a hand model at one point.

She goes on to say,”I’m very excited about getting to know him better and spending more time with him. Who wouldn’t? But I want to take things slowly. I’m just dating at the moment.”

By the way, if you want to see more of Ryan — his new show premieres March 7 at 10 p.m. on Bravo.

H/T: Erin H. @ RumorFix

Friday, February 17, 2012

Cynthia Bailey Opens Up about Trip to South Africa

Gather.com:

The Real Housewives of Atlanta women are currently in South Africa on the episodes airing on Sunday nights and as this season is slowly coming to an end, the women are slowly opening up about their reflections on the life-changing trip to the motherland, at least for Cynthia. In her new blog post, Cynthia Bailey opens up about how the trip has affected her and how it was to be back in her motherland.

"Even though I spent time there years ago as a model, nothing could prepare me for my return to the motherland with the girls. From the moment we arrived at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport, I had a small suspicion that this journey we were about to embark on would be like none other," she writes in her official blog. And surely, this trip was different than any other trip Cynthia took as a model, considering she was often in the middle of arguments between NeNe, Sheree, Marlo and Kandi.

"I wanted soak up everything that African had to offer, and in return, give back offerings of my own. I embraced the culture with open arms. I dressed in African inspired clothing and jewelry, got my hair braided, and enjoyed a hot cup of healthy Rooibos red bush tea every morning," Cynthia explains about giving back to the African community and taking in everything the surroundings had to offer. And when she writes it like that, it sounds silent and idyllic, but those watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta every Sunday night knows that peaceful and drama-free is the last thing the trip was.

Sure, the women were dramatic on the trip, including Marlo's request for a hair and make-up person as the women headed out for a safari trip, but it seems Cynthia thought highly of everyone the day they visited the orphanage and bought supplies and food for the children. And while it was big of them, one action doesn't excuse some of the other outrageous things that happened on the trip.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Taylor Armstrong Having An Affair With Her Married Attorney, Say Sources

RadarOnline.com:

It's been six months since Taylor Armstrong's estranged husband killed himself and RadarOnline.com has exclusively learned she's already moved on with one of her attorneys — who is married with kids.

The man is John Bluher, 54, and he's helping the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star handle a lawsuit she's involved in with MyMedicalRecords.com, pro bono, sources tell us.

"John traveled with Taylor while she was doing her book tour and the two of them hit it off, in more ways than one," a source close to the couple told RadarOnline.com.

"She's been seeing him for almost two months and has confided in a handful of friends about the affair."

John, who is from Parker, Colorado, is currently married to Stephanie Bluher, although another source tells us their marriage is on the rocks.

"It's a bit of a complicated situation. John is still technically married, even though he no longer lives with his wife in Colorado and spends the majority of his time with Taylor in Southern California now," the source said.

There's a very strong connection between the two, but Taylor doesn't want to be known as the other woman, period. She needs to be a role model for her daughter, Kennedy."

Taylor and John were photographed together on January 12 leaving Craig's restaurant in West Hollywood.

"John is still married and has three kids. Taylor has made great progress, but she's still in a vulnerable position, so most of her friends aren't much of a fan of him," the source continued.

RadarOnline.com was unable to reach Taylor for comment, but when we got John's wife Stephanie on the phone she said, "I don’t have anything to say to you. You can take it up with my husband."

John provided RadarOnline.com with the following statement, which we are printing in its entirety: “This story is a complete fabrication by someone that wants to hurt Taylor and damage my reputation. To place my name in an article that says Taylor or I are having an affair is libel.

“There is no affair nor has there been one. Taylor would not have said it to anyone because it hasn’t occurred. Neither she nor I have any relationship other than my working as her legal counsel.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Tareq Salahi Sues Journey’s Neal Schon For $50 Million, Plus Michaele Salahi Stars In Journey Music Video

RealityTea.com:

I don’t know about you, but I miss Michaele and Tareq Salahi. Best known for crashing a White House State Dinner in 2009, they can be blamed for the cancellation of the ill-fated Real Housewives of D.C., a franchise that was noted for its lack of drama and for the higher IQ points of their cast members. The remaining housewives refused to film if Michaele was kept on the cast, and Bravo, knowing that only she would bring the drama (and the LOLs) promptly went ahead and eliminated the show from their schedule.

Never daunted by anything, the Salahis continued their reign of fame-whoredom. She even made an appearance on Celebrity Rehab, until she was kicked out for not actually having an addiction. Since then, the pair have only been in the news due to Michale and Tareq’s divorce, which in their usual fashion, happened in a truly ridiculous manner.

Michaele left Tareq for Journey guitarist Neal Schon, a relationship she called a “fairy tale.” Let’s not forget she ran off with Neal, after Tareq reported her missing (after calling his pals at TMZ, of course), when in reality she had finally had enough of Tareq’s BS. Proving he’s made of nothing but class, Tareq found solace in the mesh arms of Michael Lohan.

So, it was no surprise at all to see Tareq gracing the front page of TMZ yet again with a new attention-grabbing scheme. This time, he has filed a lawsuit against Neal for $50 million dollars. He’s been talking about this lawsuit for a while now, and has finally filed in it in his home state of Virginia.

I’m ashamed to say that the lawsuit (kinda) makes some sense: Tareq claims that he and Michaele had a few business and television offers on the table, which were no longer available to him after his divorce (the Salahis are a package deal, after all). While I believe the Salahis probably did have offers for things like opening up a 7-11 or celebrity wrestling, I don’t believe, as Tareq claims, that Dancing With The Stars was ever a realistic offer. But, still, Tareq kinda has a point here.

In a more disturbing piece of news, Tareq also alleges that Neal sent him a photo of his penis, and also called to let him know, “I’m f**king your wife.” Tareq called it, “a metaphorical slap in the face.”

Tareq is suing Neal for “emotional distress, conspiracy to defame, interfering with a contract and defamation” and as an extra-special bonus, he wants $450k in punitive damages.

We wish Tareq the best of luck in his penis picture lawsuit. Michaele on the other hand, seems pretty content being a rock-star girlfriend and the pair even showed off their true love in the following video for Journey‘s song, Resonate. I must warn you that you shouldn’t eat while watching the video. You might get sick or ruin your computer when you bust out laughing at the sight of Michaele walking down the beach pensively in sepia-tone. Or when you see her and Neal swapping spit on the sand. You’ve been warned!

Dana Wilkey: Too Boring For A Third Season Of Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills?

RadarOnline.com:

Has Dana Wilkey, she of the infamous $25,000 sunglasses, already worn out her welcome after just one season on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills?

A show insider tells RadarOnline.com exclusively that they’d be “very surprised” if Dana gets invited back for the third season.

“Now that the reunion has aired, I think the writing is on the wall,” the insider tells RadarOnline.com. “Both Dana and Brandi Glanville, who were billed as ‘friends’ of the Housewives, spent nearly all day taping the reunion back in January.

"But while Brandi ended up being included in the majority of the show -- and causing a firestorm with her comments – only about five minutes of Dana made it on air. The husbands got more air time than she did! She just didn’t add anything.”

“None of the housewives really took to her this past season and, to be honest, she just wasn’t that interesting," the source says. "Yes, she’s wealthy but she doesn’t cause or get involved in any drama, which is really what producers are looking for.

“Lately, she’s been trying to pick online fights with Brandi in a bid to create some scandal, but I think it’s too little, too late. She’s a very nice woman but no one in the cast is expecting she’ll be asked back.”

As RadarOnline.com previously reported, Camille Grammer is likely to not be returning for the third season of the hit franchise either.

“Camille has some other projects in the works, but she needs to get released from her Bravo contract before she can pursue those,” an insider told RadarOnline.com.

If Dana Wilkey's really gone I highly doubt anyone would miss her. Yeah, RHOBH needed some other people besides "Friends of Kyle", but Dana was bland and just too full of herself to warrant having any fans esp. with the name-dropping and price-tag-flashing ("Did ya hear? Twenty-five thousand sunglasses!").

Alexis Bellino on Her 'Brutal' Season and the 'Buttoned Up' New Housewife

HollywoodReporter.com:

NBCUniversal Direct spoke to cast members Alexis Bellino and Gretchen Rossi about the season’s twists and what men can do to up the romance quotient on Valentine’s day.

“It’s a really brutal season for me,” Alexis tells the site. “And a lot of friendships are changing and falling outs are happening.”

For Alexis, part of the changes may include competition from new cast member Heather Dubrow. But, Alexis takes the high road when describing the new housewife (or she tries to).

“Heather has a very likeable personality,” she says. “She’s also very, I say ‘buttoned up,’ because I don’t like to say use the word ‘snooty’ or ‘snobby,’ because that’s what everyone keeps trying to make you say… She carries herself a certain way, but then she lets her hair down, too.”

Gretchen has an easier time of describing Heather’s personality saying, “She’s really great, really fun.”