Andy Cohen Names His Favorite "Housewives" Franchises
The Bravo executive producer revealed which two series hold a special place in his heart.
Andy Cohen, the executive producer behind the "Real Housewives" franchise, has admitted that while he doesn't play favorites, two specific series are "closest to my heart." In an exclusive interview, Cohen identified "The Real Housewives of New York City" and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" as holding a special place for him.
Cohen, who is releasing a new book celebrating two decades of the "Housewives" universe, stated that he has "many favorites" and that the strength of the show lies in its ensemble nature. He noted that cast members can have quiet seasons and then experience resurgences, making the dynamics unpredictable and the "real life" fascinating.
His new book, "Andy’s Bravo Scrapbook: Twenty Years Behind the Scenes of the Real Housewives and the Bravoverse," offers a behind-the-scenes look at the franchise's history, including reunions and drama, supplemented with personal photos from Cohen's archive. He shared that the book delves into his insights and perspectives on reunion shows, explaining how they can significantly influence the future trajectory of a series.
Addressing criticism that the show rewards conflict, Cohen defended the franchise, arguing that such claims are an oversimplification. He suggested that if the show solely focused on conflict, it would not have maintained its longevity and multiple iterations. Cohen highlighted that the series also explores themes of sisterhood and that focusing only on the dramatic aspects misses the broader picture.
Cohen expressed his disbelief at the franchise's enduring success, noting that prominent figures like Michelle Obama and Julia Roberts are fans. He described his involvement as a "gift," appreciating the opportunity to be part of a show that has resonated with and entertained a large audience, especially in an era where viewers connect with programming in less profound ways.
The book, which commemorates the 20th anniversary of the first "Housewives" installment, is scheduled for release on October 20.