Brynn Whitfield hinted at newbie castmate Rebecca Minkoff’s ties to the Church of Scientology, and addressed her seemingly shady comment that Rebecca’s fashion brand could be found at Nordstrom Rack.
Reportedly, the Real Housewives of New York newbie identifies as a Scientologist and her family is well-connected in the church. In recent years, the church has been spotlighted in several documentaries allegedly exposing its abuse.
“Everyone has their own belief system and are entitled to it,” said Brynn of the newbie costar, in an interview with E! News. “It was something that was new for our group and I think people are going to be very interested in that and Rebecca sharing that part of her life.”
“It’s something that’s private, it’s her philosophy, it’s her beliefs,” she added. “Look, we all have things, whatever it is—good, bad, faith, trauma, relationships—that’s what this show is about.”
She praised Rebecca for being open about her family’s ties to Scientology.
“What people share and the depth that they share is what they feel comfortable with at that moment in time,” explained Brynn. “This it’s really hard to put yourself out there and to share everything. So, she does so at her own pace and her own comfort level.”
Brynn then addressed her diss – shown in the recent trailer – that Rebecca’s brand could be found at Nordstrom Rack.
“No lies were told first of all,” she said. “I grew up super duper poor. Until my 20s, I don’t even think I could afford Nordstrom Rack. The American dream is basically to not only aspire to have more but to have so much more that you can become a snob, so that’s where I’m at.”
But Brynn indicated that it was a joke.
“I only am hard or tease people that can take it,” said the star. “You’ll see things get thrown back in my face as I deserve it. Do I have a brand in Nordstrom Rack? I don’t think so, honey. But I said it and I stand by it.”
The Real Housewives of New York City season 15 premieres October 1 on Bravo.
