The cast of E!'s "The Golden Life," featuring original "Real Housewives of New York City" stars Countess Luann de Lesseps, Dorinda Medley, Sonja Morgan, Ramona Singer, and Kelly Bensimon, will receive the Golden Kettle Award for lifetime achievement at the 2026 Virtual Reali-Tea Awards on Oct. 6. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly impacted the reality television landscape over their careers.
"I’m honored to receive the Golden Kettle as a testament to the entertainment I’ve brought to viewers over the past nearly two decades on television," de Lesseps said in a statement. She also acknowledged her fellow cast members, stating, "it’s been so fun to reunite with them for ‘The Golden Life.’"
The Golden Kettle specifically honors "game-changers who paved the way in the world of reality TV." The "Golden Life" cast, who were instrumental in launching "The Real Housewives of New York City" nearly 20 years ago, are being recognized for their contributions to the genre. Producers highlighted iconic moments from the cast, such as Morgan's self-proclaimed role as "the straw that stirs the drink" and Singer's "Turtle Time."
Singer, 69, commented on the award, saying, "Sharing my life on screen has not always been easy, but this award is proof that it has made an impact with audiences." Morgan, 62, expressed her excitement at being "recognized as one of the best in reality television," while Bensimon, 58, called the honor the "ultimate compliment."
Medley, 61, shared that she was "surprised" but " yet "so touched" by the news. "Reality television has been a wild ride, filled with so many unexpected, challenging, hilarious, and, of course, rewarding experiences with incredible people along the way," she stated. She added that connecting with viewers through her on-screen presence has been profoundly meaningful.
![Sonja Morgan, Margaret Josephs, Candace Bushnell, and Kelly Bensimon filming "The Golden Life" in The Hamptons.]( "Sonja Morgan, Margaret Josephs, Candace Bushnell, and Kelly Bensimon filming "The Golden Life" in The Hamptons.")
The Virtual Reali-Tea Awards ceremony will be hosted by Danny Murphy and Evan Real. The event, scheduled to take place at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, will also feature live performances and appearances by various reality television personalities, including Scheana Shay, Ashley Darby, and Drew Sidora. Voting for other VRT Awards categories, such as "Hot-Tea of the Year" and "Quote of the Year," is open until Sept. 29, with winners announced live at the event.