Former ‘Real Housewives’ Stars Who Departed and Came Back to Their Franchise
Not all Real Housewives are ready to part ways with their diamonds — or peaches/apples — forever. Bethenny Frankel, NeNe Leakes, and Dina Manzo are some of the stars who departed their respective franchises only to make a comeback years later.
While Bethenny, NeNe, and Dina returned in full-time capacities, others like Camille Grammer and Danielle Staub rejoined the Real Housewives family in friend roles.
Additionally, some cast members have chosen — or been invited — to make guest appearances on their former shows. After leaving in season 4, Jill Zarin returned to play tennis with Luann de Lesseps during season 11 of The Real Housewives of New York City, which aired in May 2019.
Brandi Glanville, who exited RHOBH after season 5 in 2015, made a short appearance the following season. The divisive Housewife also showcased her presence in season 9 of the franchise in 2019.
Although Kim Richards, sister of Kyle Richards, makes sporadic appearances on RHOBH, she hasn’t returned in a full-time role since her departure after season 5. In season 9, the women encountered the former child star during a dinner outing in Beverly Hills, where Kyle warmly welcomed her sister, while Lisa Rinna avoided engaging with her former co-star.
Executive producer Andy Cohen has been candid about the process of letting a Housewife go, sharing at the Tribeca TV Festival in 2018 that it’s “typically a discussion” between him and the cast member.
“At the end of each season, we converse with the women about their plans and if they wish to return. We also consider how we want to evolve the show,” he stated. “I believe the franchise’s success comes from its ensemble nature. It’s all about what’s best for the group. What will make it different? Should we continue this dialogue? Or do we pivot to a new one?”
One of the most notable returnees in recent seasons is Heather Dubrow, who departed RHOC after seasons 7 through 11. In 2021, news emerged that she would return as a full-time cast member for season 16.
“It simply reflects everything aligning at the right moment,” Andy commented on the “Heather Dubrow’s World” podcast in June 2021. “I think the viewers are eager for it, the show is at a turning point, and we have some rebuilding to do. … When you left the show, you were at a stage where you felt done with it. You just weren’t into it. It shows that with time, you can gain a perspective that allows you to say, ‘Maybe I can approach this differently.’ … I admire your attitude about returning.”
Tell Us Weekly: Who else do you think should make a comeback in their respective series? Additionally, scroll through for a comprehensive list of the Real Housewives who returned either full-time or in a “friend” role:
