Pinky Cole is officially joining the cast of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” — but she’s also navigating financial challenges behind the scenes.
Court records show that Cole, an Atlanta restaurateur and founder of the Slutty Vegan restaurant chain, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Feb. 12. The filing comes as she prepares to appear on the upcoming season of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”
According to the documents, Cole owes approximately $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration. The debt stems from a loan she received through the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, according to WSB-TV Atlanta. The filing also shows she owes roughly $192,000 in state taxes.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows businesses and individuals to reorganize their debts while continuing operations.
Cole built Slutty Vegan from a food truck concept into a nationally recognized plant-based burger franchise. The brand, which started in Atlanta, quickly expanded and became known for its bold marketing and celebrity support.
An insider who previously worked with Cole shared positive memories about her hustle and television savvy.
“I used to work with her back when I was a daytime TV producer!!” the source told Bravo and Cocktails. “She was so nice and such a hustler. Would cook as a hobby, and started a food truck, and eventually it became this massive franchise Slutty Vegan.”
The insider continued, “Anyway, nothing but great things to say about her as a person. Happy to see her success. Will be interesting to see how she does bc she comes from a TV production background. She knows how to brief guests and get them to bring it. She won’t fall for producers’ tricks, but she obviously knows what she’s getting herself into and wouldn’t do it to be a flop! I can’t wait!!”
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