Vicki Gunvalson, a veteran of “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” described the cast of the new “Real Housewives of Rhode Island” as “very aggressive.” Gunvalson made the remarks during an appearance on Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast, where she discussed her initial impressions of the Rhode Island cast. "I didn't even know who they were," Gunvalson said. "I was like, 'Hi, bye. You're all fighting. I'm staying away from that.'"
Gunvalson, 64, encountered the new reality stars while filming “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.” The series, which features 82 different “Housewives” celebrating 20 years of the franchise, filmed at the Bluestone Manor, home of “Real Housewives of New York City” alum Dorinda Medley.
Despite the setting, the “Real Housewives of Rhode Island” cast members were reportedly engaged in conflict. Gunvalson recalled the situation, saying, "It's like, 'The cameras aren't here. What're you guys doing? Shut up. This is my show. We are here for Season 20, ‘Ultimate Girls Trip.’ It was just awkward."
During their first season of “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island,” cast members Kelsey Swanson and Rosie DiMare were involved in a notable altercation. The dispute reportedly began over the square footage of DiMare's home, leading DiMare to call Swanson a "slam pig." This insult has been compared to James Kennedy's "worm with a mustache" remark from “Vanderpump Rules.”
“The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” premiered in April to strong ratings, becoming Bravo's biggest multiplatform series premiere since 2024, according to Deadline. The show has already been renewed for a second season.
Gunvalson, who admitted to only watching "a little bit" of “RHORI” because it "scares" her, advised the new cast members to "settle down" and "be authentic."
"Would you do this in real life? Because if you wouldn't do it in real life, what are you doing it on camera for?" she questioned.
“The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th” is set to premiere on Aug. 9 at 9 p.m. ET, with new episodes available to stream the following day on Peacock.