Andy Cohen and Bravo Settle Lawsuit With Leah McSweeney
The "Real Housewives of New York" alum's legal battle, which claimed network executives preyed on her alcoholism, has been resolved out of court.
Andy Cohen and Bravo have reached a settlement with Leah McSweeney, a former star of "The Real Housewives of New York," resolving a lawsuit that accused the network and Cohen of preying on her alcoholism. The settlement avoids what would have been the first courtroom trial between the network and one of its cast members.
McSweeney filed the lawsuit in January 2024, alleging that producers and Cohen deliberately encouraged her to drink alcohol to excess, believing it would increase ratings. She claimed they intentionally tried to undermine her sobriety, which she had maintained for 10 years prior to relapsing shortly before filming began in 2019. McSweeney appeared on two seasons of "RHONY" and one season of the spinoff "Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip."
Court documents detailed McSweeney's allegations that producers joked about her drinking issues in her presence, taunted her about her alcohol use disorder, and encouraged other cast members to disparage her mental health and substance abuse issues. She also claimed that producers promised her access to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings while filming "RHUGT" but later denied her that opportunity.
In November 2024, the case reached a courtroom hearing, marking the first time a Bravo cast member had taken such a lawsuit to trial. New York Judge Lewis Liman acknowledged that Bravo had a First Amendment right to encourage drinking but stated the network should account for its alleged methods in encouraging McSweeney to drink.
McSweeney's attorney, Gary Adelman, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "We are extremely satisfied with the outcome and we are proud of Leah and her perseverance." The terms of the settlement, including any financial figures, were not disclosed.
McSweeney also alleged in her suit that Cohen had used cocaine with certain cast members. Cohen, through his attorney, denied these claims and accused McSweeney of defamation and attempting a "shakedown," demanding she retract the cocaine allegation and apologize. McSweeney has not issued an apology, and Cohen has not filed a defamation suit. Bravo had not immediately responded to requests for comment.
If you or someone you care about is affected by issues related to substance abuse, SAMHSA’s National Helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).