Countess Luann de Lesseps: ‘RHONY’ Cast ‘Relieved’ Bethenny Frankel Left Show

RHONY Luann de Lesseps Instagram

Luann de Lesseps is one of the original stars of The Real Housewives of New York. Not much shocks the former royal. However, when co-star Bethenny Frankel announced over the summer that she was quitting RHONY, Luann was as shocked as anyone.

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People magazine reports on Luann’s appearance this week on Jenny McCarthy’s radio show. The brunette opened up on Bethenny’s departure and how the new housewife is fitting in.

Countess ‘surprised but not surprised’ by the departure; blames Bethenny’s relationship

It’s no secret that Luann and Bethenny aren’t closer friends despite having appeared on The Real Housewives of New York together off-and-on since the show’s first season. (Bethenny left once before.) However, this season seemed especially strained between the two.

Luann says Bethenny’s summer announcement “shocked” her at first. She told Jenny McCarthy that posting the departure news on Instagram was a “helluva way to leave a show.” The RHONY star explained why she wasn’t surprised with Bethenny’s decision.

“I was shocked. I was, you know, surprised and not surprised in a way because I think that she is in a relationship that I don’t think she wants to bring around on the show.”

As fans know, Bethenny is dating Paul Bernon.

Was the cast ‘relieved’ about Bethenny’s exit?

According to Luann, working with Bethenny was like “walking on eggshells.” She said that while Bethenny is very funny, she can be “really nasty” at times. Fans, however, love Bethenny’s one-liners and snide remarks.

Luann implied to Jenny McCarthy that Bethenny stole the spotlight from the other women.

“I think the whole cast is relieved in a way, and it also leaves breathing room for other women to shine and show their personalities.”

Luann says RHONY is ‘better than ever’ without Bethenny

A new housewife is joining the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of New York. Founder of the fashion line Married to the Mob, Leah McSweeney is replacing Bethenny on the hit show.

Early reports suggest tension between some of the housewives and the newcomer. However, Luann proclaims the show “Better than ever” with the new addition.

“Our new housewife is really great. I can’t talk much about her except that she’s a great addition to the cast. She’s successful.”

As for Bethenny, don’t expect her and the countess to hang out anytime soon. Luann seemed almost gleeful about not having to share the spotlight with the celebrity chef.

“She can’t steal our show. This season is amazing, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the new season.”

Season 11 of The Real Housewives of New York ended in July. The next season is expected to air in early 2020 on Bravo.

Jennifer Havener
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