Which Real Housewives Should I Start With? (Because You Have a Life, Right?)
Okay, you’re finally caving. You’ve heard the whispers, seen the memes, and even caught a glimpse of the iconic “Who Wore It Better?” drama on your social media feed. You’re ready to dive headfirst into the glorious, chaotic world of The Real Housewives. But with 11 cities, countless seasons, and enough drama to rival a Shakespearean tragedy, where do you even begin?
Fear not, my fellow reality TV enthusiast! I’m here to guide you through the murky waters of Housewives-dom, armed with my trusty TV remote and a healthy dose of cynicism (because let’s be honest, that’s what makes this whole thing so entertaining).
The OG: The Real Housewives of Orange County
Let’s start at the beginning, shall we? The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC) is the granddaddy of the franchise, the one that started it all. It gave us the iconic “Vicki Gunvalson” and the infamous “Tres Amigas,” and set the stage for all the drama, catfights, and questionable fashion choices that would follow.
But Here’s the Catch: Season 1, Episode 1 might feel a bit… rough. The early seasons are like a vintage car, charming and full of character, but maybe not the smoothest ride. It’s like watching your grandma try to figure out TikTok. It’s endearing, but with a little roughness around the edges.
If you’re looking for a smoother, more polished ride, jump in around Season 7. That’s where things really start to heat up, with the arrival of the infamous Bethenny Frankel. She’s like a shot of espresso for the show, bringing a much-needed dose of sass and business savvy.
The Big Apple: The Real Housewives of New York City
New York, New York! The city that never sleeps, and neither does the drama on the Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY). This is the show for you if you’re looking for glamorous parties, witty one-liners, and a healthy dose of “I’m so fabulous, I can’t even.”
Here’s the Thing: RHONY is a bit like a Broadway show. It’s full of big personalities, loud voices, and sometimes the plot can feel a little convoluted. But just like a good play, you’ll find yourself completely engrossed in the world of these ambitious, often-outrageous women.
The early seasons are a must-watch, thanks to the iconic “Bethenny vs. Jill” feud. However, if you’re looking for a more recent, and dare I say, even more chaotic experience, the later seasons offer a wild ride. Think “Luann’s disastrous cabaret performance” and “Dorinda’s infamous “Go to Sleep!” tirade.”
The Southern Charm: The Real Housewives of Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia, is where it’s at! The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) is the show that brings the heat, with a side of Southern charm and a whole lot of shade. This is the show for you if you enjoy a good old-fashioned family feud, a healthy dose of “read,” and a sprinkle of “church” drama.
But Let’s Be Real: This is the show where the lines between reality and a well-orchestrated, dramatic storyline blur. But hey, if you’re looking for a good time, who really cares about the truth? RHOA is like a delicious slice of pecan pie. You know it’s probably not the healthiest choice, but it’s oh so good!
The Jersey Shore of Housewives: The Real Housewives of New Jersey
New Jersey, the land of oversized hair, questionable decisions, and a whole lot of drama. The Real Housewives of New Jersey (RHONJ) is the show for you if you enjoy a good family feud, a side of “tough love,” and a sprinkle of “you can’t make this up.”
Here’s the Catch: This is the show that will make you question everything you thought you knew about family. Prepare yourself for some intense arguments, some truly cringe-worthy moments, and a whole lot of finger-pointing. It’s like watching a car crash in slow motion, you can’t look away even though you know it’s going to be bad.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
The beauty of the Real Housewives franchise is that there’s a city for everyone. If you’re looking for a classic, OG experience, start with RHOC. If you’re looking for a glamorous, fast-paced ride, go with RHONY. If you want a little bit of Southern charm and a whole lot of drama, RHOA is your go-to. And if you’re craving a family feud that’ll make your jaw drop, RHONJ is calling your name.
No matter which city you choose, prepare yourself for a wild ride. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll question what you’re doing with your life, and you’ll be hooked from the very first episode. Just make sure you have enough wine on hand for the journey ahead.
And Remember: The Real Housewives are not just a show, they’re a way of life. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride! (Just make sure you’re not watching while you’re driving, because trust me, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the screen.)
