She’s still got it. “Real Housewives of New York City” star Luann de Lesseps is back on the cover of Playgirl — and it’s not her first time. More than 30 years after she appeared on the magazine’s front page in 1990, standing behind a shirtless cowboy, the Countess has returned to the cover. This time, she’s the one taking center stage alongside another shirtless male model.
From Nurse to Model to Two-Time Playgirl Cover Star
Before Bravo fame, Luann worked as a nurse and later launched a modeling career. In her Playgirl cover story, she reflected on her journey, admitting it wasn’t easy breaking into New York’s modeling scene. Her big break came overseas after competing in the Lady Universe pageant, which she says gave her “exposure to a whole milieu of people, including the Spumante family and the Pellegrino people.”
From there, she became the “Vanna White of Italian TV” before meeting her future husband, Count Alexandre de Lesseps, during a ski trip in Switzerland. While she enjoyed European life, New York eventually won out.
Luann de Lessps and Playgirl Instagram
“It’s very quiet [in Switzerland]. It’s beautiful, but you’re living amongst the mountain goats,” Luann joked to the outlet.
That move to the Big Apple set the stage for her Bravo career and eventual cabaret success. Now, as a two-time Playgirl cover star, she’s no longer just the model standing behind a man — she’s front and center.
Luann de Lesseps’ Cabaret Career and a Pride Performance That Got Fans Talking
In addition to posing for Playgirl, Luann continues to tour with her cabaret show. Recently, she performed David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance” at a Pride concert, sharing the moment with her Instagram followers.
The performance sparked lively reactions from fans. “Can’t even hate. Luann has always been unapologetically herself and people love her for it,” one commented. Another added, “At least she’s actually singing live.”
For many, her shows are about more than technical perfection. “I agree. She knows she’s a horrible singer… but she ENTERTAINS! She’s like a stand-up comic but singing it. I’ve gone to her show. 10/10 recommend,” a fan raved.
Whether she’s making headlines for her cabaret performances or her history-making Playgirl return, Luann remains one of the most unapologetic — and entertaining — Housewives ever.
Want even juicier Bravo tea? Sign up for Cocktail Party here!
I know there are people that love her but good lord…can we be done already?🙏
I agree with the comments in the article. I saw her show when she first launched her cabaret tour. Everyone would ask how was it and I would just say it was so bad it was good!