Andy Cohen Downplays Real Housewives of Rhode Island Casting Rumors: What's the Real Story? - lulu

Andy Cohen.Credit : 

Charles Sykes/Bravo

Andy Cohen is clearing up a big Real Housewives of Rhode Island casting rumor.

Speaking with PEOPLE at the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resorts' Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Fla. on Wednesday, May 21, the Bravo host addressed speculation that the latest addition to the Real Housewives franchise will feature a cast member from another show.

"I think that's been a little overstated," Cohen, 56, said. However, he noted that he's open to the idea, adding, "It's really about who's in Rhode Island."

As for what fans can expect from the new series, Cohen said it's "Italian with a capital I" and teased that it'll give fans "early Jersey vibes," referring to The Real Housewives of New Jersey.

Andy Cohen at Universal Epic Universe on May 21, 2025.

Gerardo Mora/Getty 

Bravo announced The Real Housewives of Rhode Island earlier this month, describing the series as being about "a tight-knit circle of Rhode Islanders who have deep community roots and families that go back generations."

"With aspirational lives, thriving businesses and tangled family dynamics, these long friendships prove that in a state this small, there's no escaping your past … or each other," the logline continued.

Other new shows announced at the time included Ladies of London, which originally aired for three seasons between 2014 and 2017; The Valley: Persian Style, which features Reza Farahan, Golnesa "GG" Gharachedaghi and Mercedes "MJ" Javid from Shahs of Sunset; and Wife Swap: The Real Housewives Edition.

The cast of 'The Real Housewives of New York City' season 14.

Gavin Bond/Bravo via Getty Images

Cohen also clarified the status of The Real Housewives of New York City, which wrapped its 15th season in February and has yet to be given a return date.

"There's no real latest. We're still… We're just in between seasons," he told PEOPLE. "We're always casting, and we have some great possibilities. That's the latest."

When asked if there's still juice in that Real Housewives property, Cohen replied, "Of course, it's New York."