Kelsey Swanson, star of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island, confirmed during the show's reunion special that her ex-boyfriend, John Caprio, previously dated singer and dancer Paula Abdul.
Caprio, the son of the late Judge Frank Caprio, was in a relationship with Swanson prior to and during her current relationship with Bill L’Europa. Swanson stated that her relationship with Caprio was not exclusive, and she was aware he had another girlfriend in Miami. She described their arrangement as one where she had him for six months of the year, and the other woman had him for the remaining six months, though she did not label it as polyamory. During their time together, Caprio allowed Swanson to live in his mansion without needing to work.
While Swanson and Caprio are no longer together, Swanson has spoken positively about their past relationship. During the reunion, she confirmed reports of Caprio dating Abdul, stating that it was before her own relationship with him. Swanson mentioned that she used to stay at Abdul's house with Caprio when they visited Los Angeles.
The Boston Globe reported on Abdul and Caprio dating in 2012. Although their relationship was not widely publicized, they were seen together celebrating Abdul's 50th birthday and in various locations around Rhode Island. Abdul also reportedly formed a close bond with Judge Frank Caprio, serving as an honorary pallbearer at his funeral.
Swanson and Caprio reportedly remain on good terms. In an episode of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island, Swanson shared that Caprio continued to pay for her health and car insurance after their breakup, which she viewed as a sign of a supportive ex-partner. More recently, at the reunion, Swanson indicated that her current boyfriend now covers her car insurance, and she manages her own health insurance.
Swanson is currently in a relationship with Bill L’Europa. She noted that they had known each other for some time before their romantic relationship began, and he was one of her early crushes. The couple is reportedly discussing their future together.