Since the premiere of the Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY) reboot, fans have been sharing a range of reactions to the show's new direction. However, instead of sparking intrigue and support, the reboot seems to be leaving many longtime viewers feeling disappointed. Across online forums and social media, a wave of criticism has emerged, targeting the current cast as being "too fake" and lacking the natural, explosive energy that defined the OGs (Original Gangsters—the original cast members). One of the top requests from fans? Bring back the original cast and Jessel Taank to breathe new life into the show.
When Bravo announced plans to reboot RHONY, fans were hopeful for a refreshing twist while maintaining the dramatic and authentic elements that defined the series. However, as the new season unfolds, many viewers have expressed growing disappointment. Some fans have remarked that the new cast doesn't showcase the genuine, strong personalities that the OGs once did—icons like Bethenny Frankel, Luann de Lesseps, and Ramona Singer, who established RHONY's legacy.
One fan tweeted, "This #RHONY reboot is unwatchable. Part 1 was tolerable, but this part 2? Unbearable. They're all acting! No more quirky, spontaneous personalities like the OGs—they're too aware of the cameras. Just bring back the OGs and Jessel, and you’d have a show worth watching!"
They feel that the present no longer holds that appeal and emotion, making them feel nostalgic and wanting to return to the good memories they once enjoyed.
Fans believe that Jessel joined the show with high expectations. They think that if Bravo is smart, they should bring Jenna, Racquel, and some of their real friends into the reboot, as they bring energy and meaningful stories.
There's also the argument that the Hamptons episodes showed them all to be boring and lifeless. While viewers were open to the first season, the final two episodes proved that the OG ladies of #RHONY are actually interesting and crazy in a great way.
The original RHONY was known for its brutally honest conflicts and moments that revealed the genuine personalities of each cast member, whether it involved forming friendships, arguing, or facing life’s challenges. The OGs crafted RHONY’s unique identity through their unfiltered personalities, and fans loved this "wild and unrestrained" spirit.
In contrast, the reboot has faced criticism for lacking authenticity, with some fans saying the new members seem "too aware" they’re on camera. This awareness creates a feeling of a scripted show, rather than an unpredictable reality show, which diminishes the appeal of those dramatic, explosive moments that once captivated fans.
Among the new cast, Jessel Taank has emerged as a unique personality and a fan favorite. Despite being a newcomer, she’s left her mark with her wit, humor, and sometimes carefree attitude, creating the kind of entertaining moments viewers expect. Jessel’s ability to blend in and connect has led many fans to call for her return, even suggesting she join the OGs to amplify the show’s appeal.
The demand to "bring back the OGs" echoes across forums, representing fans’ hope for a revitalized RHONY. Bethenny, Ramona, and Luann top the list of suggested returnees, alongside Jessel from the new cast. Fans believe that blending the OGs' quirky, explosive personalities with Jessel’s distinctive style would create an unbeatable RHONY version.
The RHONY reboot is currently facing intense backlash from its fan community. Will Bravo heed the call and bring back the OGs to save the show? Or will this experiment prove unsuccessful, marking a setback in RHONY’s legacy? Only time will tell, but for now, one thing is certain: fans want to see the raw energy and irreplaceable personalities of the original RHONY cast.
