Jessel Taank Defends Carolyn Bessette Questioning on RHONY

Jessel Taank is defending her line of questioning regarding the late Carolyn Bessette on the latest episode of "The Real Housewives of New York City." Taank, a fashion publicist, inquired if Bessette, who died in a plane crash with John F. Kennedy Jr. in 1999, was a "bitch."

Speaking with Page Six Radio, Taank explained her curiosity stemmed from a shared background in fashion. "From fashion girl to fashion girl, we are a little bit bitchy and cold," Taank said, admitting she might have been incorrect to use the term "bitch." She added that she did not know Bessette personally and was simply curious about her demeanor. "Did she have a demeanor where she was sort of cold and maybe a little bit of a fashion diva?"

Carole Radziwill, Bessette's friend, was visibly uncomfortable with Taank's questions, which also included speculation about a "curse" on the Kennedy family. Radziwill was married to Anthony Radziwill, a cousin and close friend of John F. Kennedy Jr. The couple died just weeks apart in 1999.

Taank also asked Radziwill about the "Carolyn Bessette summer" style trend, which draws inspiration from Bessette's minimalist fashion choices. Radziwill stated she was not a fan of the trend. Taank interpreted this by saying she understood Radziwill's perspective, feeling Bessette was being reduced to a trend. "But in my eyes, I was like, ‘No, we’re celebrating her,’" Taank commented.

Taank noted that while her questions may have been insensitive, the cast was generally curious about Radziwill's connection to Bessette, especially following the release of Ryan Murphy's "Love Story" series. "Carole really lived that experience with them; and for us, we’re just seeing what we’re seeing on the TV show," Taank said, emphasizing that the cast's curiosity was "all in innocence" and they did not intend to upset Radziwill, who left the brunch early.

Taank stated that the group became more aware of Radziwill's feelings as the season progressed. "I think it did resurface a lot of emotion [for Carole], so we were cognizant of that after that," she explained.

"The Real Housewives of New York City" airs Tuesdays on Bravo and streams the following day on Peacock.