Andy Cohen says a transgender “Real Housewife” could absolutely join Bravo’s signature franchise, but only if the casting feels authentic to the group.
The Watch What Happens Live host addressed the possibility during an appearance at the Newport Beach TV Fest, saying the right fit would need to have a real connection to women already on one of the shows, per Page Six. “I think if there was a trans ‘Housewife’ who was friends with other ‘Housewives’ that would be the way,” Cohen said.
“You wouldn’t want it to be stunt,” Cohen continued. “You know, you wouldn’t want it to be like, ‘Let’s cast into this.’ If someone was friends with that person, then that would be great.”
Cohen, 58, said he has “no idea what franchise that would be,” but made it clear the door is open if the person fits naturally into the world of the show.
The Bravo executive also reflected on earlier casting conversations around The Real Housewives of New Jersey. Cohen said production once “flirted with the idea” of casting Jaime Laurita, the brother of Caroline Manzo and Dina Manzo.
“I mean, look, I think that in terms of casting a gay guy on the show, this is a show about women and celebrating women,” Cohen said. “So I’d think we’d leave it there.”
