Sep 14, 2025 3 min read Superficial Intelligence

Ode to the Real Housewives

Vicki Gunvalson, Chanel Ayan, Kyle Richards, Nene Leakes, Teresa Giudice, Alexa Nepola - and none of them is my favourite from any franchise they're in

RHOC | Orange County (2006-)

Let's Whoop It Up!

In 2026 we will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of The Real Housewives of Orange County. Meaning that it's been almost two decades of following Vicky Gunvalson, Gretchen Rossi, Tamra Judge and slimy Slade Smiley (oof, what a mouthful to say) and many others who have in the meantime disappeared from our screens.

I didn't start watching until a couple of years later (I guess 2010?) and sometimes I let two seasons run fully before I dive again, just like I am doing currently, watching seasons 18 and 19 in a row. Honestly I tend to forget storylines and what they are currently screaming about, so watching it all in one weekend binge sessions is the best format for me.

What I love about this series, not only it being the OG of the franchise, but the sunny setting, the big houses, the love for the beach, the futility of the body worshipping. Also, most have started married in the franchise and all have gone through messy divorces before us in camera. So don't get attached to any couples...

My favourite OC Housewife: Heather Dubrow

I have loved Heather Paige Kent now Dubrow since day one, was sad when she left the franchise and very glad when she came back. Through the years, we saw her change her name, going from actress to reality show goddess, dealing with her husband Terry - who was completely checked out from home duties, but they made it work - and being a mother to 4 kids. Remember her youngest was just born when she started filming? They are all adults or teenagers now. We are old!

Heather inspires me because of her sense of taste, organisation and living the high life unapologetically. I do not have Dubrow-money nor will I ever have, but I also love to have a flute de champagne in my hand to celebrate and have a beautiful table with name card when hosting friends. And I do think she makes me want to elevate my style every time she is on screen. Also, every fears her and I love that. Never go away again, please!

*Heather Dubrow from The Real Housewives of Orange County having champagne (or bubbles as she calls it and so do I)*

RHOD | Real Housewives of Dubai (2022-)

I was pretty excited about this franchise! I have never been to Dubai - except for layovers at the airport - but I was always fascinated by the Emirates and had seen Dubai Bling on Netflix and loved it. Yes, I just love drama, no matter where it comes from! I just finished Season 2 this week and I honestly feel the drama is heavily manufactured and repetitive. I mean, how many more seasons can we have about Sergio and Caroline discussing on camera that he wants a baby and she does not want a 4th child?

My favourite Dubai Housewife: Sara Al Madani

First of all, she is GORGEOUS. And then she is the only real emirati from the bunch, after the delicious Nina Ali left. I also loved Nina, she was just an impeccable lady. So prestine Bravo TV didn't deem her worthy of being a permanent fixture of the franchise as she didn't bring enough drama.

Back to Sara: she is a single mother of one, very spiritual and looking for love. She is a real girl's girl and I love her bromance with Sergio, Caroline's husband. She keeps it real and is cool. Very refreshing for a housewife!

*Sara Al Madani on The Real Housewives of Dubai*

RHOL | Real Housewives of London (2025-)

And... I have not watched this one but I am so excited! I loved Ladies of London. I always asked myself why it wasn't a proper Real Housewives franchise as it felt like it. Speaking about LOL, Juliet Angus is back with this new franchise!

I feel I will connect a bit more with European housewives than American ones... unless you don't consider the UK as Europe any longer, but you get my grip. And there seems to be lots of trips to Scotland and I am here for it.

Here is the trailer from Hayu, cannot wait to watch it!