Liz McGraw is reportedly doing well and "thriving" after her departure from "The Real Housewives of Rhode Island," according to her longtime friend and co-star Alicia Carmody. McGraw, 56, announced her exit from the Bravo series in early July, stating she was taking "a step back" to focus on her family, work, and passions.
Carmody, 41, spoke about McGraw's decision in an interview, suggesting that the reality television environment had taken a toll. "It is a lot to put your family [out there], and I’m sure she did get hurt with the internet [backlash]," Carmody told Page Six's "Virtual Reali-Tea." She added that McGraw has been "so happy" since leaving the show.
While McGraw did not specify the exact reasons for her departure, "Real Housewives of Orange County" star Tamra Judge indicated that McGraw was "really struggling with the hate on social media." A point of contention during the first season of "RHORI" involved McGraw challenging Carmody's assertion of being homeless as a child. McGraw questioned Carmody's claim, arguing that because Carmody moved in with her grandmother, she was not truly without a home.
Carmody, who is currently filming the second season of "RHORI," stated that she is giving McGraw space but still cherishes their friendship. "I love her from afar. I always will love Liz," Carmody said. "We started this [show] together. I definitely miss her for certain things, but she had to do what she had to do."
Carmody also clarified the nature of her relationship with McGraw, noting that despite knowing each other since birth, they were not as close as portrayed on the show. Carmody explained she was best friends with McGraw's niece, as McGraw's sister and Carmody's mother were very close. "Me and Liz weren’t besties but we have [had] a connection since I was born, a little girl. I looked up to her," Carmody said.
Despite McGraw's exit, Carmody mentioned that executive producer Andy Cohen has indicated that "the doors are open" should McGraw wish to return to the series in the future. "The Real Housewives of Rhode Island" Season 1 is available for streaming on Peacock.