Since its premiere in 2008, The Real Housewives of New York City has introduced audiences to a vibrant, dramatic, and often unpredictable group of women living in one of the world’s most iconic cities. Over the years, the cast has evolved, with each new addition bringing her own energy, background, and personality into the mix. From business moguls to socialites, fashion designers to former models, the cast members of RHONY have reflected the diversity and extravagance of New York’s elite. The show has become a staple of reality television, with fans closely following the cast both on and off the screen as relationships shift, careers blossom, and conflicts unfold.
Original Cast Members
Luann de Lesseps
Luann de Lesseps, known in early seasons as ‘The Countess,’ was one of the original cast members of The Real Housewives of New York City. With a background in modeling and a former title from her marriage to a French aristocrat, Luann brought elegance and etiquette to the show’s first season. Over time, she rebranded herself as a cabaret performer and singer, releasing songs and launching her live show, Countess and Friends. Her journey has included personal struggles, career reinvention, and memorable one-liners that have become part of RHONY history.
Ramona Singer
Another original cast member, Ramona Singer quickly became known for her unfiltered opinions, entrepreneurial spirit, and dramatic flair. As the owner of her own skincare and wine businesses, Ramona brought the hustle of a self-made woman to the series. Her friendships and feuds with fellow cast members were a consistent source of entertainment. Ramona’s unapologetic personality and frequent on-screen antics made her one of the most talked-about housewives on the show.
Jill Zarin
Jill Zarin was a major part of the early seasons, known for her connections, bold style, and deep involvement in New York’s social scene. She had a complex friendship with Bethenny Frankel, which eventually turned into one of the franchise’s most emotional fallouts. Though Jill left the show after season 4, she remained a fan favorite and made several guest appearances in later seasons. Her warmth, sharp wit, and family-centered values left a lasting impact on RHONY’s foundation.
Bethenny Frankel
Bethenny Frankel is one of the most successful and recognizable names associated with The Real Housewives of New York City. Starting off as a natural foods chef and aspiring entrepreneur, she used the platform to launch her Skinnygirl brand, which turned into a major business empire. Bethenny’s mix of humor, intelligence, and emotional vulnerability resonated with viewers. She left and returned to the show multiple times, each time bringing strong storylines, business updates, and memorable quotes.
Notable Longtime Cast Members
Sonia Morgan
Sonia Morgan joined in season 3 and quickly became beloved for her quirky personality, lavish lifestyle, and entrepreneurial ideas. Once married to the heir of the Morgan banking dynasty, Sonia often shared stories of her past while navigating personal reinvention. Whether she was hosting townhouse parties or discussing her clothing line, Sonia added a unique charm and vulnerability that made her a standout cast member for several seasons.
Carole Radziwill
Carole Radziwill, a former journalist and widow of a Kennedy family member, brought intellectualism and calm to the often chaotic RHONY cast. Joining in season 5, Carole quickly formed a strong friendship with Bethenny Frankel, although the relationship later deteriorated in dramatic fashion. Her writing career and thoughtful demeanor provided a different lens into the lives of New York’s elite, making her a fan favorite for viewers looking for depth and introspection.
Dorinda Medley
Dorinda Medley became a breakout star after joining in season 7. Known for her tagline I made it nice, she became famous for her passionate outbursts and emotional honesty. Dorinda often shared her grief over the loss of her husband while trying to find joy and purpose in her social life and charity work. Her Berkshires home became a central setting for some of the show’s most intense and hilarious moments. Fans loved her for being real, emotional, and fiercely loyal.
Cast of Recent Seasons
Leah McSweeney
Leah McSweeney joined the cast in season 12 and brought a younger, edgier energy to the group. As the founder of the streetwear brand Married to the Mob, Leah represents a more modern take on New York success. Her honest opinions, outspoken nature, and sometimes chaotic behavior created friction and alliances within the cast. Viewers appreciated her ability to challenge the status quo and bring fresh perspectives to longstanding dynamics.
Eboni K. Williams
Eboni K. Williams made history as the first Black cast member on The Real Housewives of New York City, joining in season 13. A lawyer and television host, Eboni brought intelligence and social awareness to the forefront of the show. Her presence sparked conversations about race, privilege, and identity, offering new layers to the RHONY narrative. While her time on the show was polarizing for some, it undeniably shifted the show’s cultural relevance and depth.
Reboot and New Cast Members
In 2023, The Real Housewives of New York City underwent a major reboot, introducing a brand new cast to breathe fresh life into the series. This decision marked a bold step for the franchise, aiming to reflect a more current and diverse version of New York City’s social scene.
- Jenna Lyons Former J.Crew executive known for her fashion sense and powerful presence.
- Ubah Hassan A Somali model and entrepreneur with international experience and vibrant charisma.
- Bryn Whitfield A communications professional known for her quick wit and magnetic energy.
- Erin Lichy A real estate agent and businesswoman balancing her career and family life.
- Jessel Taank A fashion publicist with a global perspective and distinct style.
- Sa’eda Sultana A marketing executive with a passion for community and culture.
This new group of women brought different career paths, cultural backgrounds, and personalities to the series. Though still developing their relationships and group dynamics, they represent a fresh direction for RHONY, one that aims to blend glamour with modern perspectives.
Legacy of the RHONY Cast
The cast of The Real Housewives of New York City has evolved dramatically over time, but one thing has remained constant: each woman brought something unique to the table. Whether it was comedic timing, emotional depth, entrepreneurial success, or unfiltered drama, the RHONY cast consistently delivered entertainment and insight into the lives of women navigating power, status, and identity in New York City.
Many former cast members remain in the spotlight through other ventures, including podcasts, book deals, product lines, and social media influence. Their journeys both on and off screen continue to interest fans and shape the broader Real Housewives universe.
From its early days with Luann, Ramona, Jill, and Bethenny, to its rebooted cast representing a more modern and diverse NYC, The Real Housewives of New York City remains one of the most iconic reality shows of its time. The cast members past and present have contributed to the show’s cultural impact and long-lasting appeal. With each new season, fans look forward to fresh drama, evolving friendships, and a front-row seat to the lives of women who define and challenge what it means to be a Real Housewife in the Big Apple.