The future of The Real Housewives of New Jersey may still be uncertain, but Bravo’s Andy Cohen is already stirring excitement for a fresh addition to the franchise: The Real Housewives of Rhode Island. In a May 2025 interview, Cohen teased that this new series is “Italian with a capital ‘I,’” hinting at a vibrant cast that’s ready to bring the drama. With casting rumors swirling and filming reportedly nearing completion, Rhode Island is shaping up to be the next hot spot for reality TV fans.
On the September 11 episode of his Andy Cohen Live podcast, Cohen couldn’t contain his enthusiasm when guest Sean Avery, a former Canadian ice hockey player and actor, brought up the Rhode Island project. “It’s gonna be amazing,” Cohen declared. “We’re almost done filming the season, and it’s popping!” His excitement suggests that The Real Housewives of Rhode Island (RHORI) is poised to deliver the kind of explosive moments Bravo fans crave.
When Avery pressed for details, asking if the show has an “Italian” vibe, Cohen didn’t hesitate. “Very,” he replied, fueling speculation about the cast’s dynamic energy. Cohen’s co-host, John Hill, chimed in, noting Rhode Island’s proximity to New Jersey—just “30 minutes” away, he claimed. (A quick fact-check reveals it’s more like a four-hour-and-45-minute drive, but who’s counting when the drama’s this close?) The connection to Jersey hints at a shared intensity, with Cohen warning, “You do not wanna [mess] with the people from Rhodie.”
The buzz around RHORI has been building for months, with casting rumors dropping left and right. Names like RHONJ veteran Dolores Catania, Bachelor Nation star Ashley Iaconetti, and even Emmy-winning icon Joy Behar have surfaced as potential housewives. Over the summer, Iaconetti was reportedly spotted filming scenes, adding fuel to the speculation that she’s bringing her reality TV experience to this new venture. While Bravo has yet to confirm the official cast, the mix of familiar faces and fresh talent has fans eagerly awaiting the reveal.
Cohen’s cryptic tease about the “Italian with a capital ‘I’” vibe has sparked curiosity about what makes Rhode Island’s housewives stand out. Is it their fiery personalities, tight-knit community ties, or a flair for drama that rivals their Jersey neighbors? Avery, surprised to learn of Rhode Island’s Italian influence, got a quick education from Cohen and Hill. “Oh, yeah,” Cohen assured him, doubling down on the cast’s bold, no-nonsense attitude.
While a premiere date for The Real Housewives of Rhode Island hasn’t been announced, Cohen’s update confirms that filming is nearly complete. This means fans won’t have to wait long to see the Ocean State’s debut on Bravo. If Cohen’s enthusiasm is any indication, RHORI is set to deliver high-stakes drama, unforgettable personalities, and a fresh take on the Housewives formula.
As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Rhode Island to see if it can live up to the hype. Will the show capture the same magic that made The Real Housewives of New Jersey a fan favorite? Or will it carve out its own unique legacy in the Bravo universe? One thing’s for sure: with Andy Cohen at the helm and a cast that’s already “popping,” The Real Housewives of Rhode Island is ready to heat things up.